Qalawun Complex
Fatimid Cairo / Northern Al-Muizz
Enter one of medieval Cairo's greatest Mamluk architectural ensembles, where a richly decorated mausoleum, madrasa and historic hospital reveal the religious, educational and medical ambitions of Sultan al-Mansur Qalawun.
Historical Overview
Standing on Al-Muizz Street at Bayn al-Qasrayn, the Qalawun Complex is one of the landmark monuments of Bahri Mamluk architecture. It brought several functions together in a single monumental foundation: education, worship, burial and medical care. The complex is noted for richly treated entrances and decoration incorporating geometric, floral and other ornamental motifs. The historic bimaristan was established for medical treatment and the Ministry notes that part of its medical legacy continued in later eye and dental hospital use.
Why Visit?
If a tourist visits only a few Mamluk monuments in Cairo, Qalawun should be among them. It demonstrates how medieval architectural patronage combined religion, education, healthcare and royal commemoration.
What to See
- Monumental Mamluk façade
- Mausoleum interior
- Decorative marble
- Carved stone
- Geometric and floral ornament
- Historic hospital remains
- Architectural relationship with the surrounding Bayn al-Qasrayn monuments
Getting There
Destination / الوجهة
مجموعة قلاوون
Point to this and ask them to take you there
من فضلك وديني مجموعة قلاوون في شارع المعز بمنطقة بين القصرين
Public Transit Options
Metro
Bab Al Shaaria — Line 3
Recommended Route
Bab Al Shaaria -> walk to Al-Muizz pedestrian area
Media Gallery
The magnificent facade of the Qalawun Complex
Good to Know
Best Combined With
Make the most of your visit by combining this with:Madrasa of al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun,Madrasa and Khanqah of Sultan Barquq,Amir Beshtak Palace,Sabil-Kuttab Abd al-Rahman Katkhuda
Opening Hours
Check specific site for hours.
Ticket Prices
Plan Your Visit
- Duration: 45 - 60 mins
- Best Time: Morning for the best light inside the mausoleum.
- Photography: Mobile phone photography is free under current Al-Muizz visitor rules.