Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Egypt, built in the 10th century by order of Fatimid Caliph Sultan al-Muizz li Din Allah, who authorized its construction. to mark the location of his new capital, Cairo.
About Al-Azhar Egypt Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most important cultural and religious symbols of Islamic Egypt. Founded in the 10th century, Al-Azhar has existed for more than a millennium and is considered a peak academic, religious and cultural center of the Sunni Muslim world. Located in Cairo, this church is not only a temple of worship but also a source of inspiration and knowledge for millions of Muslims around the world.
Al-Azhar Mosque Egypt. Photo: @memphistours
Al-Azhar Church is also a gathering place for scholars, philosophers and Muslims to discuss religious, social and political issues. The work is famous for providing religious education for both boys and girls, from primary school to university level, especially in the field of classical and modern Islamic sciences.
This is one of the oldest mosques in Cairo. Photo: @koral_liz
Al-Azhar Church also plays an important role in promoting understanding and interaction between different religions in the situation of religious diversity in Egypt.
Move to Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque has a very central location, located in the center of Cairo. Here are a few ways you can get to church:
Taxi or Uber: Taxis are a convenient way to get to Al-Azhar Mosque from anywhere in Cairo. You can request a taxi service through a mobile application such as Uber, Careem or you can find a taxi at taxi stops in the city.
Bus: Cairo has a well-developed public bus system. You can find out the bus routes that pass through the Al-Azhar area and use them to reach your destination. However, using the bus can be difficult if you are not familiar with the transportation system and the local language.
Metro (Metro): Cairo also has a convenient metro system. You can use metro to get to Al-Azhar Mosque. The nearest stations to Al-Azhar Cathedral are Gamal Abdel Nasser Station and Attaba Station.
Walking: If you are near the central Cairo area, you can walk to the Al-Azhar church. This not only saves money, but also allows you to discover more of the beauty of the city.
You will have many options for transportation to go to the church. Photo: @nadinetaing
Opening hours Al-azhar mosque
The opening hours of Al-Azhar Mosque are 8am to 4pm, but these hours are subject to change. If you want to visit during the quietest times, be aware that the church is often filled with worshipers at prayer time (midday and mid-afternoon during opening hours). You should avoid Fridays, when the mosque is especially crowded.
Please grasp the opening hours to be proactive in your schedule. Photo: @salmamohsen1121
History of Al-Azhar Mosque Egypt
Al-Azhar Mosque has an extremely rich and important history in Islamic education and religious culture. Here is an overview of the history of Al-Azhar Mosque:
The Al-Azhar Mosque was founded in AD 970, during the rule of the first Fatimid Caliph, Al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah. It was built with the aim of creating a prestigious center of Islamic teaching and academic promotion in the Muslim community. The name "Al-Azhar" comes from the Arabic word "Al-Azhar", which means "light", symbolizing creativity and knowledge.
After that, the Al-Azhar Mosque quickly became an important academic center of the Islamic world, attracting scholars, theologians and students from all over. It not only teaches about religion, but also includes science subjects such as mathematics, medicine, philosophy, and art and culture.
Throughout its history, the Al-Azhar mosque has experienced many political and cultural ups and downs. It has overcome great challenges and still exists as a precious cultural icon. By the 20th century, Al-Azhar had become a major university and continued to teach education and morality to millions of Muslims worldwide.
The Al-Azhar Mosque is now not only a famous school but also a religious and cultural center with great influence in the international Muslim community. It plays an important role in maintaining and preserving classical Islamic traditions and knowledge and also promotes understanding and peace between different religions and cultures.
Al-Azhar Mosque was founded in the 10th century. Photo: @ahmeddiae
Unique architecture of Al-Azhar Egypt Mosque
The architecture of the Al-Azhar Mosque is an excellent example of the blending of art, knowledge and religion. This church was built in the classical Islamic architectural style, combining architectural elements from the Mamluk and Ottoman periods.
An important feature of Al-Azhar architecture is the main tower, commonly known as the “minaret” located in front of the church. This minaret has a tall, elegant shape, built using layers of high quality stone. The minaret is not only used to show the uniqueness of the church, but also to call Muslims to pray.
The church has splendid architecture. Photo: @faten09
Al-Azhar Church has a very impressive interior architecture. In the church grounds there are spacious yards, gardens and school yards full of trees. In addition, the classrooms and libraries are luxuriously and elegantly designed, creating a suitable space for studying and discussing religious knowledge.
The building is shimmering and brilliant at night. Photo: @wayne_and_ling
Another remarkable point of Al-Azhar architecture is the subtlety of spatial arrangement. The balance between architectural pieces, colors and patterns is carefully arranged, creating a solemn and peaceful space, suitable for spiritual activities and learning.
Overall, the architecture of the Al-Azhar mosque combines religious, artistic and intellectual properties. It is an important cultural and religious symbol not only for the Muslim community but also for the whole world.
Attention when visiting Al-Azhar Mosque
When visiting Al-Azhar mosque, there are some important things that you should keep in mind to respect the culture, religion and regulations of this place:
Dress: To enter the Mosque, it is recommended that you dress modestly and respectfully. For women, it is recommended to wear a hat to cover your head and a jacket to cover your arms and legs. For men, it is recommended to wear a shirt and long pants.
Shoes: When entering the Mosque, you should take off your shoes or sandals to show respect and cleanliness in the holy place.
Cell phones and cameras: In the altar and sacred areas, the use of cell phones or cameras may be prohibited or restricted.
Respect and Tranquility: When inside the Mosque, maintain a respectful and quiet mindset. Do not make noise or disturb others who are praying.
Take photos: If you want to take pictures, ask the Church staff or guide. There are places where photography may be restricted.
Respect the ceremony: If you come at a time of ceremony or prayer, be respectful by standing on the sidelines and not obstructing those who are in attendance.
Religious factor: Al-Azhar Mosque is an important religious place in the Muslim community. Show respect for the religion and customs of the local people.
When going to church be sure to dress in historical clothing. Photo: @ayda_june
Attractions near Al-Azhar Egypt Mosque
Giza pyramid complex
The Giza Pyramid Complex - one of the wonders of the ancient world is an architectural and technical masterpiece of the ancient Egyptian dynasty. Built more than 4,500 years ago, the Giza Pyramid Complex is located near the town of Giza, about 20 kilometers northwest of Cairo, Egypt. This place is not only a symbol of the honor and immortality of the ancient pharaohs but also a great heritage of science, architecture, culture and history of mankind.
Three of the major pyramids at the Giza complex include the Pyramid of Khufu (also known as the Pyramid of Cheops), the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Khufu pyramid is the largest structure and was built with millions of large stone blocks. These pyramids not only show the construction talent of the ancient Egyptians but are also a metaphor for the religious knowledge and worship of that era.
The mystery of the pyramid Giza has attracted the curiosity and study of archaeologists, researchers and visitors from all over the world. Learning about this population not only helps us uncover the life and religion of the ancient Egyptians, but also provides a deeper insight into the technical capabilities of ancient people.
Giza pyramid complex. Photo: @eriaustria
Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is a rich historical and cultural symbol, taking visitors into Egypt's long past. Located in the heart of Cairo, the Egyptian Museum is a wonderful treasure trove of knowledge and heritage of this ancient civilization.
With more than 100 years of history, the Egyptian Museum has thousands of precious artifacts displayed in interesting and logically arranged galleries. Visitors can learn about Egyptian culture, religion, art and daily life from different periods.
In the museum, visitors have the opportunity to admire priceless artifacts such as murals, idols, jewelry and everyday utensils used by the ancient Egyptians. Famous treasures such as the Golden mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun and the statue of Horus all carry a part of the history and soul of this nation.
Egyptian Museum. Photo: @kyluc.vn
Khan El Khalili Chợ Market
Khan El Khalili Market, a famous cultural and commercial icon in Cairo, is an exciting and vibrant destination for visitors to explore and experience. With its long history and central location in the heart of the capital, Khan El Khalili market has become an integral part of urban life and Cairo culture.
Possessing a large space and a variety of businesses, Khan El Khalili market is a place for people from all over the world to interact. Visitors can enter a colorful world with nooks and crannies, cramped shops and specialty shops. Here, flavors, music and herbal aromas intermingle to create a space filled with energy and richness.
Khan El Khalili Market is a great place to shop for traditional crafts, unique jewelry, hand-embroidered tapestries, wavy hats and more. A special thing is that here, visitors have the opportunity to negotiate and experience the art of negotiating with sellers.
Khan El Khalili Market. Photo: @egitto
Al-Azhar Mosque is not only a temple but also a symbol showing the cultural, religious and intellectual sublimation of the Muslim world. Over the centuries, Al-Azhar has contributed to the development of religious and cultural knowledge in the Muslim community.
