Cairo, Egypt
Coordinates: 30.031900, 31.256700
The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan is a monumental mosque and madrassa located in the historic district of Cairo, Egypt.
It was built between 1356 and 1363 during the Bahri Mamluk period, commissioned by Sultan an-Nasir Hasan.
The mosque was considered remarkable for its massive size and innovative architectural components, and is still considered one of the most impressive historic monuments in Cairo today.
It was constructed during the time of the Black Plaque and even though disease took a toll, work continued daily until it was complete. During the time of its construction, craftsmen from all over the Mamluk empire came to work on it. It is said to be the most expensive mosque of medieval Cairo.
Even the entrance is impressive. It’s simply huge.
The massive main doorway at the north corner is almost 26 meters high and the minaret at the south corner is the tallest in Cairo at 81.5 meters.
As you enter the vestibule chamber, don’t forget to admire the red and white marbled patterns on the walls and the dome above. There’s a passage with little lighting that leads you onward and into the central courtyard.
The slightly darkened walk through the passage only makes the entrance into the courtyard that much more impressive. You walk out into a giant room of light. The light also floods the immense iwans on each side – each one represents one of the Sunni schools of thought.
Sultan Hussan was to be buried here and was not but it is the final resting place of his son.
Know This
Be sure to stop and pause and look around. There are so many beautiful details here.
A guide might be a good idea too as this place is full of history.
The mosque is an active place of worship. At the time of visiting the mosque women need to cover their heads; arms and legs and all visitors will need to leave their shoes prior to entering the mosque.
