Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo
In the heart of modern metropolitan Cairo lies Islamic Cairo, a captivating glimpse into the past, the culture, and the faith that has been practiced over the years in this region. Dubbed also as Old Cairo or Middle Ages Cairo, this area has been recognized and declared by the UNESCO building heritage under its protection. It has an impressive array of mosques, madrasas, and other structures dating to the Islamic Empire’s Golden Epoch. Islamic Cairo is a unique place for tourists; it takes them to an era when a muezzin’s cry could be heard in every corner and warm spices ticked people’s noses.
A Brief History of Islamic Cairo Temporal characteristics of the concept of Islamic Cairo go back to the seventh century when the Arab conquerors first introduced Islam into Egypt. Through the centuries, Cairo rose and became the center of the Islamic Empire under various dynasties: the Fatimids, Ayyubids, Mamluks, as well as the Ottomans. Each of these contributed and left traces of the architectural magnificence and cultural depth of the present surroundings.
Once it bloomed into its glorious days, Islamic Cairo was a thriving metropolis of commerce, schools, and temples. In the 10th century, the Fatimids moved to Egypt and made Cairo their political capital, erecting such memorable edifices as al-Azhar Mosque and the original city enclosure. Later, the Mamluks built their marvelous mosques, tombs, and madrassah structures, which embellished the city further. Even today, Islamic Cairo is still considered to be one of the least altered urban areas containing medieval Islamic architecture throughout the entire world.
Landmarks in Islamic Cairo
When it comes to the variety of places to see in Islamic Cairo, the visitors will surely be loaded with so many sights. Here is a list of some of the landmarks that one should not miss:
1. Citadel of Salah El Din Historical Relevance: Built in the 12th century under the orders of the great Salah El Din (Tamerlane), the Citadel was constructed to protect the city of Cairo from the Crusaders’ threats.Main Characteristics of Construction: The citadel illustrates the example of military architecture of its typical medieval period, characterized by high walls and lookout points. Inside its grounds, tourists can come across the impressive Mosque of Muhammad Ali with its tilted spires and lavish decoration. Overlooking Opportunities: The Citadel is a beautiful and scenic old fortress that has an expansive view over Cairo, enabling you to see even the pyramids clearly at very far distances in good weather, which makes it ideal for taking pictures.
2. Al Azhar Mosque Education: Founded in 970 AD, the Al Azhar Mosque is among the oldest universities in the world and a representation of education in Islam.
Art: The mosque is preserved as a fine architectural work of art typical of the Fatimid era. Its complex has exquisitely carved geometric shapes, stucco designs, and a beautiful marble floor. Their artworks in the form of buildings were, however, embellished by other empires, creating a mix of architectural styles under the umbrella of Islamic art. 
Spirit: It’s still a religious hub and a cultural center, bringing in scholars, tourists, and other visitors from every corner of the earth. Its atmosphere is comfortable, which allows people a break from the noisy city.
3. Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Vibrant Market: Founded in the 14th century, Khan El Khalili is one of Cairo’s most famous souks (markets). A labyrinth of narrow alleys brimming with shops, it’s the perfect place to discover traditional handicrafts, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs.
Historic Tea Houses: While wandering through the bazaar, take a break at one of the historic tea houses, such as El Fishawi’s, which has been serving tea and coffee to patrons for over 200 years. This is a prime spot for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.
Artisan Workshops: Many stalls offer a peek into Cairo’s artisanal heritage, with workshops where craftsmen create intricate gold jewelry, hand-blown glassware, and colorful textiles.

4. The mosque of Sultan Hassan

The Magnificence of Construction: This mosque completed in the 14th century is an epitome of Mamluk designs. Its walls are thick and vertical, with large arches creeping along with a central courtyard enclosing an ablution area.

Center for Educational Purpose: This construction was intended to be a mosque at first and a madrassa (school) attached to it. The purpose was to train pupils in the four Sunni legal schools.

Awesome Features: The stunning mosque has marble inlay, detailed wood carving, and an imposing mihrab, which is a collection of the best works done during the Mamluk’s reign inside.

Cultural Experiences in Islamic Cairo

Cultural Engagements in Islamic CairoIslamic Cairo is not limited to the visit of some ancient archives and churches; it is a cultural experience. So here are some of the activities that could be part of your visit:
1. Attending a Sufi music performance at Ar-Tanura Egyptian Heritage Dance TroupeSpiritual Music: Not only is the venue located at Wekalet El Ghouri an ancient building that serves as a cultural hub, but the performance combines Sufi music and whirling dervishes that are artists performing an age-old dance of spirituality and unison with God.A Vivid Picture: All the spirituality that one associates with Islamic Cairo has easily been stripped away in the loud, festooning music, bright, glittering costumes, and the dervishes spinning around in an entrancing manner.

2. Studying Genre and Context of Islamic Art at the Museum of Islamic ArtAn amazing exhibit: The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia harbors the most extensive collection of Islamic arts ever assembled, consisting of textiles, ceramics, woodworks, and pages and documents from across the Islam dome. Explore: Objects from different Islamic empires and their cultures and achievements in arts within the Islamic world can be found.

Islamic Cairo: A Living Testament to Egypt’s Rich Legacy

Cairo has not only historical monuments but is a geographical space with its own history and living people. Cairo is a place that has seen the rise and fall of empires but has managed to retain its character, showing how Egypt has developed and changed throughout the years.

Strolling in Islamic Cairo, one can hear stories that are already a few centuries old, from the loud “Azan” to the noise of the craftsmen who are working with their own hands, making products using the skills passed down for generations. This area also served an important role in the history of Cairo as a trade, education, and religion center.

For those who wish to explore the very core of Egypt, Islamic Cairo is the time bender that takes one closer to the beautiful world of Islamic arts and crafts, the history of Cairo, and a city that has been the heart of the world for countless ages.