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Constructed in memory of Mohammed Ali Pasha, the city’s first ruler, the Muhammad Ali Mosque is located in the Cairo Citadel complex. The citadel was built in the 12th century by Sultan Salah al-Din in response to the crusades that were imposed on the area. This mosque, the largest in Cairo, serves not only as a place of worship but is a monument of Ottoman influence in Egypt. For those interested in history or an admirer of Islamic buildings, Cairo day trips to the Muhammad Ali Mosque offer an experience that is worth every travel effort.
The Muhammad Ali Mosque is a structure built in the lifetime of Muhammad Ali Pasha, between the years 1830 and 1848. The Pasha of Egypt, Muhammad Ali, gave the order to build this mosque which is regularly referred to as the Alabaster mosque due to the application of alabaster on the walls of the structure. For those on Egypt tours, the structure is covered with a great dome in the center, smaller domes grouped around it to enhance the beauty of the structure and two tall minarets that define one of the highlighted features of Cairo’s skyline.
The layout is exceptionally designed, an exhibition of enormous solid wood beams with elaborate carvings, beautiful stained glass, and ornamental features as reminiscing the artistry that was put at that time. The major prayer hall spaces, resplendent with a huge chandelier and rich décor, invite the attention of the tourists to the grandeur of the mosque but at the same time call for deep respect.
The Muhammad Ali Mosque is a real work of art but a significant historical monument as well. Established at the time when Muhammad Ali Pasha was in power, this mosque was built to project his power in Egypt and for posterity. The physical location of the mosque that is within the Citadel of Saladin is located politically and strategically within the 19th century.
Given that the mosque was a clear symbol of Egyptian policy, it was built with the intention of dominating and eclipsing older religious buildings, marking the end of the Mamluk era and the beginning of the Ottoman Empire's control over Egypt. As one of the key Cairo attractions, with the passage of time, like in the previous period, the mosque came to represent the identification of the people with religion and the state in the centers of power, in the country with many layers of history, Egypt.
One of the most thrilling experiences when one is at the Muhammad Ali Mosque is the stunning views of the city that it provides. This structure is located on the Citadel of Saladin, from where the visitors are served with well-captivating panoramic views of the city, including the Pyramids of Giza positioned far away on a bright and clear day. As part of Old Cairo, the mosque’s raised position makes it an appropriate place for viewing the large coverage of the city of Cairo both in terms of the skyline and historical monuments.
The sights are worth the climb to the mosque's towers or the arches surrounding the courtyard and picture the story of the mosque as well as the energetic town lying beneath it.
Located in the heart of Cairo, the Muhammad Ali Mosque remains one of the most cherished and centrally located places of worship for its residents. Many people come for its beauty and grandeur, but they forget that it is a working mosque that locals visit for daily prayers. This is also why the mosque from within is warm and encouraging, perfect for spiritual pursuits and heavenly tourism as well.
Finally, beyond the beauty of the craftsmanship or of the architectural designs, practical use of the mosque has been made as a Heritage site. It has provided, in some way, the culture and history of Egypt during the rule of Ottomans and the decorative arts. The interior of the mosque is embellished with Ottoman ornamental woodwork and domes as well as Arabic calligraphic art.
There is no tour of Cairo that would be complete without a visit to the Muhammad Ali Mosque. Anyone interested in the history, architecture, and culture of Egypt should visit it as it has a unique breathtaking design and a deep historical background that goes to show the ideologue and strength of Muhammad Ali Pasha. The Muhammad Ali Mosque, as one of the top Cairo sightseeing destinations, has an interior decor so beautiful that will leave a lasting impression even for those taking a tour for the sake of sightseeing without delving into Cairo’s rich Islamic history.
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