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Unknown Soldier Memorial
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Landmark
The Unknown Soldier Memorial in Cairo was inaugurated in 1975 to commemorate the Egyptian soldiers who lost their lives during the October War of 1973. Designed by the renowned architect Sami Rafe, the monument features a striking hollow pyramid shape made of concrete, standing 36.6 meters tall. Each of the four pillars of the pyramid symbolizes a branch of the Egyptian armed forces and is adorned with thousands of carved Arabic names. At the center of the structure lies a symbolic basalt sarcophagus representing all unidentified soldiers who died in combat. The site gained significant historical notoriety as the location of President Anwar Sadat's assassination during a military parade in 1981. It currently serves as the primary venue for national ceremonies and official wreaths-layings by visiting foreign heads of state.
- Location: Egypt
- Top sights: New Cairo Convention Centre · Sobhy Hussein Mosque · Unknown Soldier Memorial
- Nearby: Shubra El Kheima (10 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 Unknown Soldier Memorial is a publicly accessible war memorial on a square in Nasr City. Visitors can view the pyramid-shaped monument and eternal flame from all sides.
Typical hours
The memorial site is open 24 hours a day, with free entry. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the light highlights the inscriptions.
Photography
Photography is allowed across the entire site, including professional gear. Respectful behavior towards the memorial is expected.
Time needed
A quick visit takes about 10-15 minutes just to see the monument. For a closer look at the inscriptions and surroundings, allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
The memorial is near the Cairo Tower and Al-Azhar Park, both worth combining. The Egyptian Museum is also a short taxi ride away.
Getting there
The memorial site is at the intersection of Salah Salem Street and Al-Nasr Road. Best reached by taxi or ride-sharing service.
Insider tip
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Cairo Tower for an impressive view over the city. Sunset from there is spectacular.
Geography
Facts
- The memorial was officially inaugurated in October 1975.
- It stands at a total height of 36.6 meters (120 feet).
- The pyramid structure is hollow and rests on four massive pillars.
- It commemorates the Egyptian martyrs of the 1973 Arab-Israeli War.
- The site is also the final resting place of President Anwar Sadat.
- The pyramid's base measures approximately 14.3 meters on each side.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Unknown Soldier Memorial (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the memorial located?
It is located in the Nasr City district of Cairo. It has a distinctive pyramid shape.
To whom is the memorial dedicated?
It honors Egyptian soldiers who lost their lives in the October War of 1973.
Is entry free?
Viewing from the outside is free and possible at any time.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed, but respect for the ceremonial site is required.
How long does a visit take?
A short stop of 15 to 20 minutes is enough for photos and viewing.
Unknown Soldier Memorial: where is it located?
Unknown Soldier Memorial is located in Egypt.
Unknown Soldier Memorial: what is there to see?
Highlights include New Cairo Convention Centre, Sobhy Hussein Mosque, Unknown Soldier Memorial.
Unknown Soldier Memorial: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Unknown Soldier Memorial: why is it worth visiting?
The Unknown Soldier Memorial in Cairo was inaugurated in 1975 to commemorate the Egyptian soldiers who lost their lives during the October War of 1973.
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Al-Azhar Mosque
A historic Islamic mosque in Islamic Cairo, established in 972 and renowned as a center for Islamic learning.
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A massive architectural complex in Islamic Cairo, including a hospital, madrasa, and mausoleum built by Sultan Qalawun.
Al-Rifa'i Mosque
A massive mosque in Cairo located next to the Sultan Hassan Mosque, serving as the royal mausoleum for the Egyptian royal family.
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A grand Ottoman mosque situated in the Citadel of Cairo, visible from across the city.
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A monumental mosque and madrasa located in the historic district of Cairo, known for its massive scale.
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A green oasis in Cairo's old city.
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