Muhammad Bey Abu al-Dhahab Complex
Al-Azhar / Historic Cairo
Explore one of Ottoman Cairo's most distinctive architectural complexes, where an elevated domed mosque, mausoleum, public fountain and Sufi lodge stand directly opposite Al-Azhar Mosque in the heart of Historic Cairo.
Historical Overview
The mosque is a suspended mosque, meaning the prayer space is raised above street level with commercial shops beneath it. Its design draws strongly on Ottoman mosque architecture, while its minaret is exceptionally unusual in Cairo, ending in five small finial-like heads. The complex preserves richly coloured marble, gilded Qur'anic inscriptions, a wooden minbar inlaid with ivory and ebony, painted decoration inside the funerary dome, copper window grilles and Turkish-style tiles in the sabil.
Why Visit?
This monument works especially well when viewed immediately after Al-Azhar because the two buildings face each other but represent architectural traditions separated by roughly eight centuries.
What to See
- Mosque
- Mausoleum of Muhammad Bey Abu al-Dhahab
- Sabil
- Animal watering trough
- Takiya
- Commercial shops beneath the elevated mosque
Getting There
Destination / الوجهة
مسجد أبو الدهب
Point to this and ask them to take you there
من فضلك وديني مسجد محمد بك أبو الدهب قدام الجامع الأزهر
Public Transit Options
Metro
Attaba — Lines 2 & 3
Recommended Route
Metro: Attaba -> El-Muski/Al-Azhar corridor
Media Gallery
The distinctive elevated structure of the Abu al-Dhahab Mosque
Good to Know
Best Combined With
Make the most of your visit by combining this with:Al-Azhar Mosque,Naguib Mahfouz Museum
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Plan Your Visit
- Duration: 30 - 45 mins