Mosque of Muhammad Ali — Attraction in Cairo

Nice Place , Nice Arts. Beautiful. The main material is limestone likely sourced from the Great Pyramids of Giza but the lower storey and forecourt is tiled with alabaster up to 11,3 meters. The external facades are severe and angular and rise about four storeys until the level of the lead-covered domes.

The mosque was built on the site of old Mamluk buildings in Cairo's Citadel between 1830 and 1848, although not completed until the reign of Said Pasha in 1857. The architect was Yusuf Boshnak from Istanbul and its model was the Sultan Ahmed Mosque[ in that city. The ground on which the mosque was erected was built with debris from the earlier buildings of the Citadel.

Before completion of the mosque, the alabastered panels from the upper walls were taken away and used for the palaces of Abbas The stripped walls were clad with wood painted to look like marble. In 1899, the mosque showed signs of cracking and some inadequate repairs were undertaken. The condition of the mosque became so dangerous that a complete scheme of restoration was ordered by King Fuad in 1931 and was finally completed under King Farouk in 1939.

Muhammad Ali Pasha was buried in a tomb carved from Carrara marble, in the courtyard of the mosque. His body was transferred here from Hosh al-Basha in 1857.

Muhammad Ali chose to build his state mosque entirely in the architectural style of his former overlords, the Ottomans, unlike the Mamluks who, despite their political submission to the Ottomans, stuck to the architectural styles of the previous Mamluk dynasties.

The mosque was built with a central dome surrounded by four small and four semicircular domes. It was constructed in a square plan and measured 41x41 meters. The central dome is 21 meters in diameter and the height of the building is 52 meters. Two elegant cylindrical minarets of Turkish type with two balconies and conical caps are situated on the western side of the mosque, and rise to 82 meters.

The use of this style, combined with the presence of two minarets and multiple half-domes surrounding the central dome — features reserved for mosques built on the authority of the Sultan — were a defiant declaration of de facto Egyptian...

I recently visited the Mosque of Muhammad Ali inside the Cairo Citadel, and it was without a doubt one of the most impressive stops of my trip to Egypt. Perched high above the city, the mosque offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo, with the pyramids faintly visible in the distance on a clear day. The setting alone is worth the visit.

The mosque itself is stunning inside and out. Its grand Ottoman-style domes and towering minarets dominate the skyline, while the interior features beautifully detailed chandeliers, intricate Arabic calligraphy, and a sense of calm and reverence that contrasts with the hustle of the city below.

Although it was warm the day I visited, the spacious design and stone construction kept the interior relatively cool and comfortable. Entry to the Citadel complex was very affordable and included access not just to the mosque but also to other historic buildings and museums on-site, making it great value.

One of the highlights was standing in the large open courtyard and gazing up at the massive central dome—it's a humbling experience. There’s also a clock tower gifted by the French (though it never actually worked), which adds a quirky historical note to the visit.

Overall, I’d highly recommend the Mosque of Muhammad Ali to anyone visiting Cairo. It’s not just a place of worship but a piece of history, architecture, and culture all rolled into one. A must-see for anyone interested in Egypt beyond the pharaohs...

Social media @Sharikul12 Date: 13.12.2024

The Mohamed Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is an architectural gem that stands majestically atop the Citadel of Cairo. Visiting this iconic landmark is a must for anyone exploring Egypt's rich history and culture. Built in the 19th century by Mohamed Ali Pasha, this mosque is not only a place of worship but also a masterpiece of Ottoman design.

As you approach, the mosque’s towering minarets and grand domes command your attention. Inside, the beauty is breathtaking. The intricate details of the alabaster walls and the soaring central dome create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The exquisite chandeliers and delicate calligraphy adorning the ceilings add to its splendor.

Beyond its architectural beauty, the mosque offers spectacular panoramic views of Cairo from the Citadel. On a clear day, you can see the city sprawling below, with landmarks like the Pyramids visible in the distance.

The Mohamed Ali Mosque is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into Egypt’s Islamic heritage. Its well-maintained structure and peaceful ambiance make it a rewarding experience for visitors. Whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, or spirituality, this mosque is a timeless treasure that...