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Al-Azhar Mosque
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Landmark
The Al-Azhar Mosque, located in the historic heart of Cairo, was commissioned in 970 AD by the Fatimid Caliphate and completed in 972. As the first mosque established in the newly founded capital, it quickly evolved into one of the most prestigious religious and educational centers in the Islamic world. The affiliated Al-Azhar University is recognized today as one of the oldest continuously operating higher learning institutions globally. Architecturally, the building reflects a blend of various styles, as subsequent rulers, particularly the Mamluks and Ottomans, added significant expansions over the centuries. Notable features include its five distinct minarets and the vast central marble courtyard surrounded by arched porticos. The mosque remains a primary authority for Sunni Islamic theology and jurisprudence, playing a vital role in Egypt's contemporary religious landscape.
- Location: Egypt
- Top sights: Sufi Dervish Dance · El-Hawari House · Ahmed Pasha Hassanein's Mausoleum
- Nearby: Giza (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 25 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 19 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 17 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Al-Azhar Mosque is open to visitors, but access to prayer halls is restricted during prayer times. Non-Muslims may typically enter the courtyard and parts of the main prayer hall, provided they dress modestly and respectfully.
Typical hours
The mosque is typically open from early morning until the evening prayer, with closures during the five daily prayer times. On Fridays, access is often limited until after the noon prayer.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard and most public areas, but not inside the prayer halls during services. Avoid using flash to avoid disturbing the worshippers.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts about 30-45 minutes if you only see the mosque. With a guided tour or if you explore the adjacent Al-Azhar University compound, allow 1 to 1.5 hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with nearby Khan el-Khalili market, a traditional bazaar selling souvenirs and spices. The Al-Hussein Mosque and Beit Al-Suhaymi are also within easy walking distance.
Getting there
The easiest way to reach the mosque is by taxi or Uber from downtown Cairo; the ride takes about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, take the metro to Ataba station and then a taxi for the short remaining distance.
Insider tip
Visit on a weekday late morning to avoid the crowds. Remove your shoes before entering the prayer area and store them in the designated shoe racks.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 970 AD during the reign of the Fatimid Caliphate.
- The Al-Azhar University was officially established as a school in 988 AD.
- The complex features a total of five distinct minarets built in different eras.
- The central prayer hall covers an area of more than 3,000 square meters.
- Sultan Qaitbay added one of the most decorative minarets in the 15th century.
- The mosque's library contains over 500,000 rare manuscripts and books.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Al-Azhar Mosque (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was the mosque built?
It was founded in 970 AD.
Is it also a university?
Yes, one of the oldest in the Islamic world.
Do women have to wear a headscarf?
Yes, headscarves are often provided at the entrance.
Is there an entry fee?
Entrance is free; donations are welcome.
Can you interrupt during prayer time?
No, sightseeing is not allowed during prayers.
Al-Azhar Mosque: where is it located?
Al-Azhar Mosque is located in Egypt.
Al-Azhar Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sufi Dervish Dance, El-Hawari House, Ahmed Pasha Hassanein's Mausoleum.
Al-Azhar Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Al-Azhar Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Al-Azhar Mosque, located in the historic heart of Cairo, was commissioned in 970 AD by the Fatimid Caliphate and completed in 972.
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The oldest mosque in Cairo surviving in its original form, renowned for its massive size and unique spiral minaret.
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One of the most important museums of ancient history, situated in Tahrir Square, holding an extensive collection of antiquities.
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