Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaytbay Mosque and Mausoleum — Attraction in Cairo

The funerary complex of Sultan Qaytbay is an architectural complex built by the Mamluk sultan al-Ashraf Qaytbay in Cairo's Northern Cemetery. It was built between 1470 and 1474.

The main building is a mosque (originally a madrasa) attached to Qaytbay's mausoleum, while other parts of the complex include residential structures, a drinking trough for animals, and a smaller tomb. The complex is considered one of the most beautiful and accomplished monuments of late Mamluk architecture and it is pictured on the Egyptian one pound note.

Al-Ashraf Qaytbay was a mamluk purchased by Sultan Barsbay (r. 1422–1438) and served under several Mamluk sultans, the last of whom – Sultan al-Zahir Timurbugha (r. 1467–1468) – appointed him amir al-kabir, the commander-in-chief or highest position for an amir under the sultan.

Qaytbay succeeded Timurbugha as sultan at the age of 54, and ruled for nearly 29 years from 1468 to 1496, the second-longest reign of any Egyptian Mamluk sultan (after al-Nasir Muhammad). His period was marked by external threats and internal rebellions, notably from the rising Ottomans.

Qaytbay's funerary complex was one of his earliest architectural commissions; construction work for the complex began in 1470 and the mausoleum was completed in 1474. The construction period was long by Mamluk standards; however, Qaytbay's complex was on a large scale and constituted an entire royal quarter or walled suburb in the then-lightly urbanized desert cemetery area east of Cairo – now known as the Northern Cemetery.

(One of the pics inside the mausoleum is allegedly a footprint of prophet Abraham taken from Mecca when it was under...

Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaytbay Mosque and Mausoleum is a remarkable example of late Mamluk architecture in Cairo, reflecting the grandeur and sophistication of the 15th century. The complex combines a mosque and a mausoleum, showcasing intricate stonework, beautifully carved inscriptions, and elegant domes that highlight the architectural mastery of the period.

Visitors are immediately struck by the harmonious proportions, ornate details, and serene atmosphere within the prayer halls and courtyards. The mausoleum, housing the tomb of Sultan Qaytbay, adds historical and cultural significance, providing insight into the Mamluk dynasty’s legacy.

Situated in historic Cairo, the site allows visitors to explore not only the mosque and mausoleum but also the surrounding streets rich in heritage and traditional architecture. Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaytbay Mosque and Mausoleum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Cairo’s Islamic...

One of the most beautiful and well decorated mosques 🕌 in old cairo. Located in "mamlouk desert 🏜 "-a place between Salah Salem Street and Autostrad Road in front of Azhar park- it's a mosques, school, reception and an under dome grave for one of the long lasting mamlouk sultan. I went there in a walk called Escape Walk 🚶‍♀️ organized by "Escape Egypt" a group on Facebook and Instagram Our tour guide was dr Gamal Abdulrahim, a professor of Islamic, Coptic and Jewish civilization in Cairo University. It costed 450 L.E. including a delicious Egyptian breakfast on Street food car, a comprehensive description for the complex and a 6 hours tour in the area ( hoosh afandina, al naser farag ibn barkouk complex, Sultan Inal complex, prince Qurqumas complex, Shewa Kar hanim dome-grave, .... and more Dr Gamal is a fantastic story teller and Escape were very professional in the tour. A...