El-Mahmoudya Mosque⛪ religious
This historic mosque is located in the shadow of the imposing Al-Rifa'i Mosque.
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Al-Rifa'i Mosque
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Landmark
The Al-Rifa'i Mosque in Cairo, located directly opposite the massive Sultan Hassan Mosque, was constructed over a period of 43 years, from 1869 to 1912. It was commissioned by Khushayar Hanim, the mother of Khedive Ismail Pasha, to serve as both a place of worship and a royal mausoleum for the Muhammad Ali dynasty. The building is a prime example of Neo-Mamluk architecture, blending traditional motifs with the grand scale of the late 19th century. Its interior is lavishly decorated with intricate marble inlays, gilded ceilings, and massive chandeliers reflecting the wealth of the Khedivial era. The mosque contains the tombs of several Egyptian monarchs, including King Fuad I and King Farouk, as well as the final resting place of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Its sheer size and architectural complexity make it one of the most prominent landmarks in historic Cairo.
- Location: Egypt
- Nearby: Giza (6 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
Al-Rifa'i Mosque is open to visitors with typically free admission, though donations are welcome. You can explore the main prayer hall and the mausoleum chambers of the Egyptian royal family.
Typical hours
The mosque typically opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a closure during the noon prayer. On Fridays, access may be limited until after the prayer at around 1:00 PM.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the mosque, but flash and tripods are not permitted inside the mausoleum areas. Be respectful of worshippers and avoid disturbing them.
Time needed
Allow about 30-45 minutes to tour the mosque and its mausoleums. If you also plan to visit the adjacent Sultan Hassan Mosque, set aside 1.5 to 2 hours total.
Combine with
The mosque is right next to the Sultan Hassan Mosque, which is equally worth visiting. The Saladin Citadel and Khan el-Khalili bazaar are also within walking distance.
Getting there
The mosque is located at Midan al-Qal'a, about 10 minutes by taxi from downtown Cairo. You can also take a bus to the Sultan Hassan stop and walk the short remaining distance.
Insider tip
Be sure to combine your visit with the adjacent Sultan Hassan Mosque, as the two buildings offer a fascinating architectural contrast. Arrive early in the morning to avoid tour groups.
Geography
Facts
- Construction took 43 years to complete due to funding interruptions.
- The mosque houses the remains of the last Shah of Iran, who died in 1980.
- The interior features 44 massive columns and 19 different types of marble.
- King Farouk of Egypt was buried here following his death in 1965.
- The mosque was built on the site of a former Sufi shrine of Al-Rifa'i.
- It covers a total ground area of approximately 6,500 square meters.
Explore nearby
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Sights in the town Al-Rifa'i Mosque (1)
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Frequently asked questions
When is the mosque open?
Usually daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except during prayer times.
What clothing is required?
Modest clothing; shoulders and knees must be covered, shoes must be removed.
Who is buried here?
Members of the Khedivial family and the last Shah of Iran are buried here.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for tourists (approx. 100-200 EGP).
What is located opposite the mosque?
Directly opposite is the massive Sultan Hassan Mosque.
Al-Rifa'i Mosque: where is it located?
Al-Rifa'i Mosque is located in Egypt.
Al-Rifa'i Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Al-Rifa'i Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Al-Rifa'i Mosque in Cairo, located directly opposite the massive Sultan Hassan Mosque, was constructed over a period of 43 years, from 1869 to 1912.
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History & landmarks
Sultan Hassan Mosque
A monumental mosque and madrasa located in the historic district of Cairo, known for its massive scale.
Mosque of Muhammad Ali
A grand Ottoman mosque situated in the Citadel of Cairo, visible from across the city.
Mosque of Ibn Tulun
The oldest mosque in Cairo surviving in its original form, renowned for its massive size and unique spiral minaret.
Al-Azhar Mosque
A historic Islamic mosque in Islamic Cairo, established in 972 and renowned as a center for Islamic learning.
Abdeen Palace
A historic Cairo palace serving as one of the official residences and principal workplaces of the President of Egypt.
Qalawun Complex
A massive architectural complex in Islamic Cairo, including a hospital, madrasa, and mausoleum built by Sultan Qalawun.
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
A modern museum in Fustat that showcases Egyptian history across all its eras, from prehistoric times to the modern day.
Egyptian Museum
One of the most important museums of ancient history, situated in Tahrir Square, holding an extensive collection of antiquities.
Nature
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Citadel of Saladin
A medieval Islamic-era fortification in Cairo, built by Saladin to protect it from the Crusaders.
Al-Azhar Park
A green oasis in Cairo's old city.
Islamic Cairo
The historic core area of Cairo containing a wealth of Islamic architecture covering hundreds of years.
Coptic Cairo
A part of Old Cairo which encompasses the Babylon Fortress, the Coptic Museum, and numerous ancient churches.
Gezira Island
An island in the Nile in the middle of Cairo.
Heliopolis Park
Large city park with recreational opportunities.
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Gabal el-Asfar
An isolated mountain east of the Nile Delta.
Great Sphinx of Giza
A massive limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, likely Pharaoh Khafre.