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Bab Zuweila - Cairo Gates

Facts About The Step Pyramid

  • 05 16, 2023

 Bab Zuweilla: An Entrance to Cairo’s Historical Legacy

Situated in the center of Cairo, Bab Zuweilla serves as a significant symbol of the city’s intricate and rich history. This ancient gate, one of the few surviving remnants from Cairo's medieval Islamic era, represents a crucial landmark that embodies the architectural and cultural transformations that have occurred throughout the ages.

Historical Importance

Constructed during the Fatimid Caliphate in the early 11th century, Bab Zuweilla exemplifies the contributions of the Fatimids to the Islamic Golden Age. This gate was an integral part of the city’s defensive walls, designed not only to shield Cairo from potential invasions but also to function as a grand entry point into the city.

The gate derives its name from the Zuweilla district, which was historically a vibrant center for commerce and residence. The term "Zuweilla" in Arabic translates to “the good ones” or “the fortunate ones,” likely alluding to the district's prosperity and significance during its peak.

Architectural Wonder

Bab Zuweilla is celebrated for its unique architectural characteristics. It stands as a remarkable example of Islamic military architecture, distinguished by its grand scale and elaborate details. The structure features two towering edifices that dominate the skyline, imparting a sense of authority. These towers are embellished with intricate geometric designs and Arabic inscriptions, highlighting the artistic skill of the period.

The design of the gate includes two expansive arched openings that facilitated the movement of people and goods, alongside a smaller entrance designated for pedestrians. The fortifications are equipped with battlements and defensive features, underscoring the strategic role of the gate in protecting the city.

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Egypt Tours FAQ

Read top Egypt tours FAQs

Bab Zuweila is famous for being the door on which the heads of the messengers of Hulagu, the leader of the Tatars, were hung when they came threatening the Egyptians. From the military point of view, Bab Zuweila, built on the southern rib of the Cairo wall, is one of the defensive forts of the city of Cairo and was previously used as a public square to execute the guilty and hang their heads over this door.

Built by the Fatimid vizier, Badr al-Jamali, in 485 AH/1092 AD. The gate was named after the tribe of Zuwayla, who came from north Africa with Jawhar al-Siqili and quartered near the gate.

Bab Zuwayla is a big gate that was built a long time ago in 1092. It is one of only three gates that are still standing from a very old city called Cairo. Cairo was built by a group of people called the Fatimids in 969. The city was like a castle with a big wall made of mud and stones to keep it safe. Bab Zuwayla is one of the entrances to this special city.
 

Bab Zuweila is located in the historic district of Islamic Cairo, specifically in the area known as Fatimid Cairo. It stands at the southern end of Muizz Street, one of the oldest and most important streets in the city.

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