Mosque and Khanqah of Amir Shaykhu
Shaykhun Street / Al-Saliba, Al-Khalifa
Discover a remarkable pair of Mamluk monuments facing one another across Al-Saliba, where Amir Shaykhu created a mosque for public worship and a vast khanqah for Sufi residents, scholarship and religious teaching.
Historical Overview
The mosque contains a central courtyard surrounded by four iwans, including a principal qibla iwan and an octagonal fountain structure. Its funerary dome was originally intended for Shaykhu, although he was ultimately buried in the khanqah opposite. The khanqah occupied a large site and contained accommodation for Sufis and students.
Why Visit?
The two facing buildings make this one of the best locations in Cairo for explaining the difference between a mosque and a khanqah, while also demonstrating the scale of charitable and educational foundations created by powerful Mamluk emirs.
What to See
- Facing architecture of mosque and khanqah
- Central courtyard
- Four iwans
- Mausoleum
Getting There
Destination / الوجهة
مسجد شيخو
Point to this and ask them to take you there
من فضلك وديني مسجد الأمير شيخو في شارع الصليبة
Public Transit Options
Metro
Sayyida Zeinab — Line 1
Recommended Route
Metro: Sayyida Zeinab -> Walk or short taxi to Al-Saliba
Media Gallery
Photo of Mosque and Khanqah of Amir Shaykhu
Good to Know
Best Combined With
Make the most of your visit by combining this with:Al-Saliba Street monuments,Prince Taz Palace
Opening Hours
Check specific site for hours.
Ticket Prices
Plan Your Visit
- Duration: 30 - 50 mins