Mosque and Madrasa of al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun
Bayn al-Qasrayn, Al-Muizz Street
Stand between two of Cairo's greatest Mamluk monuments and explore the elegant madrasa of Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad, distinguished by a remarkable marble Gothic portal brought from Acre, a rare stucco mihrab and an unusually decorated square minaret.
Historical Overview
The madrasa occupies one of the most prestigious positions in medieval Cairo, standing between the Qalawun Complex and the later complex of Sultan Barquq. Only two of its original iwans survive. The eastern iwan preserves a rare stucco mihrab, while the western side contains delicate plasterwork. One of the building's most remarkable features is its marble entrance portal, which the Ministry identifies as having originally belonged to a church in Acre in Palestine. The adjoining mausoleum contains the burials of Princess Aslabay, mother of al-Nasir Muhammad, and his son Anuk. The square minaret is also notable for decorative elements described by the Ministry as Andalusian in character.
Why Visit?
This monument gives visitors an excellent opportunity to compare three successive phases of elite Mamluk architecture within a few metres: Qalawun → al-Nasir Muhammad → Barquq.
What to See
- Marble portal associated with Acre
- Rare stucco mihrab
- Surviving eastern and western iwans
- Mausoleum
- Gilded wooden screens
- Square minaret
- Andalusian-inspired decoration
- Historic stone façade
Getting There
Destination / الوجهة
مدرسة الناصر محمد
Point to this and ask them to take you there
من فضلك وديني مدرسة الناصر محمد في شارع المعز بمنطقة بين القصرين
Public Transit Options
Metro
Bab Al Shaaria — Line 3
Recommended Route
Metro: Bab Al Shaaria -> Al-Muizz walking route
Media Gallery
The historic facade of the Madrasa of al-Nasir Muhammad
Good to Know
Best Combined With
Make the most of your visit by combining this with:Qalawun Complex,Sultan Barquq Complex,Amir Beshtak Palace,Al-Kamiliyya Madrasa
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Plan Your Visit
- Duration: 30 - 45 mins
- Best Time: Morning.
- Photography: Mobile photography: free under current Al-Muizz ticketing regulations.