Al Azhar Mosque

Built in 10th century, Al Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic monuments in Cairo. It is located in old part of Cairo, also known as Islamic Cairo. Al Azhar Mosque is a seat of Islam and centre for protests against the rulers for centuries. The mosque consists of a large courtyard lined with arched pillars and a prayer hall lined with bright carpets. Al Azhar University attached to the mosque is one of the oldest institution of Islamic studies, which teaches Sunni theology and the Islamic Sharia laws. The university was granted recognition as an official educational institute by the Egyptian government in 1960. Hire a guide and ascend to the roof of the mosque from where you can enjoy the panorama of Old Cairo dotted with minarets. From the top you can admire the diversity of minaret architecture, which derives its influence from Fatimid Dynasty, Mamluk Dynasty and Ottomans. Bab Zuweila, a medieval gate to the old town can be spotted from the top. Cairo was no wonder once called ‘A City of Minarets’.