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Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque Alexandria

4.6
·4k reviews·, Egypt

A stunning Islamic architectural gem in Alexandria, home to the mausoleum of a 13th-century Sufi saint, offering a serene spiritual experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Inside extended part

Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque Alexandria

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Islamic architectural gem in Alexandria, home to the mausoleum of a 13th-century Sufi saint, offering a serene spiritual experience.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"Admire the blend of North African and Islamic styles, with cream-colored walls, tall minarets, and intricate geometric patterns."

Vertical photo
TIP

Modest Attire Required

Cover shoulders and knees. Women may need to cover their heads. :womaninveil:

Respect Prayer Times

Be mindful of prayer schedules to ensure a peaceful visit. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Admire the blend of North African and Islamic styles, with cream-colored walls, tall minarets, and intricate geometric patterns.

Mausoleum of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi

Mausoleum of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi

Visit the tomb of the revered 13th-century Sufi saint, a significant spiritual center.

Intricate Interior Details

Intricate Interior Details

Marvel at the beautifully decorated interiors featuring mosaics and domes, a unique departure from typical mosque designs.

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Planning Your Visit

Dress Code & Respect

As a place of worship, modest dress is essential. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women may need to cover their heads. Be mindful of prayer times and maintain a respectful demeanor.

Best Time to Visit

Avoid peak prayer times to experience the mosque's tranquility. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography and fewer crowds.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

يجمالك يا اسكندريه❤️ #alexandriaegypt🇪🇬 #اسكندريه #fyp
@sherbiny1xv
233.2K likes • 2.9M views

Modest Attire Required

Cover shoulders and knees. Women may need to cover their heads. :womaninveil:

Respect Prayer Times

Be mindful of prayer schedules to ensure a peaceful visit. :clock1:

#the #power of #multicultruralism #isbcc #mosque #islam #mulsim #bangladesh #pakistan #yemen #somalia #tunisia🇹🇳 #india #allahuakbar #plestine #egypt #eid #mubarak
@halalmeatbostonfarms
127.3K likes • 1.4M views
The Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque 🕌 is one of the most beautiful mosques in Egypt, and certainly the most important and most magnificent mosque in Alexandria. The mosque is named after a 13th century Sufi saint, Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi. Originally built in 1775, the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque has since been renovated, altered, and rebuilt on a number of occasions.
tripbeetravels
8 likes • 650 views

Photography Opportunities

Capture the stunning Islamic architecture, especially the interior ceiling. :camerawithflash:

Cats are Welcome!

You might encounter friendly cats lounging around the mosque. :smiley_cat:

Al-Mursi Abu al-Abbas Mosque, which is Alexandria’s largest mosque. It was built over the grave of a Andalusian sufi scholar, Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi (1219-86) overlooking the eastern harbor Alexandria Egypt. It was designed by the Italian architect Mario Rossi (1940s-2019) #mosque🕌 #mariorossi #architects #architecture #architecturephotography #almursiabualabbasmosque #alexandriaegypt🇪🇬 #andalusi...
zaradel.alexandria
15 likes • 239 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Modest Attire Required

Cover shoulders and knees. Women may need to cover their heads. :womaninveil:

Respect Prayer Times

Be mindful of prayer schedules to ensure a peaceful visit. :clock1:

Photography Opportunities

Capture the stunning Islamic architecture, especially the interior ceiling. :camerawithflash:

Cats are Welcome!

You might encounter friendly cats lounging around the mosque. :smiley_cat:

Tourist Information

Books on Islam in various languages are available for tourists. :books:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque for its beautiful Islamic architecture and serene atmosphere, noting the unique interior design and the availability of religious texts for tourists. Some mention ongoing repairs, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and peaceful visit.

"Place doesn't need tickets. The domestic are beautiful and I read that they were inspired by the Andalusia style. Masjid is relatively small but beautiful from inside but there are some repairs internally in the main dome. Yet I recommend to see Busair Masjid beside this one as it is older and more interesting"

Sherif Moharam

"Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is one of the most famous and iconic mosques located in the Anfushi district of Alexandria, Egypt. Originally built in the 18th century and later rebuilt in the 1940s, the mosque is named after the 13th-century Sufi saint Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, who hailed from Murcia, Spain, and settled in Alexandria where he spread Islamic mysticism.

The mosque’s architecture blends traditional North African and Islamic styles, featuring cream-colored walls, tall minarets, and beautifully decorated interiors with intricate geometric patterns, mosaics, and domes. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a major cultural and historical landmark, attracting both local worshippers and tourists interested in Alexandria’s rich Islamic heritage."

詹頤

"Wonderful mosque in Alexandria. Quiet and nice to visit, and as is typical some cats around. Inside there is a space with books on Islam in various languages, specifically designed for tourists to pick and take in their language. Nice picture opportunities inside, quick but enjoyable visit."

Patricio O'Gorman

What People Like

Beautiful Islamic architecture
Peaceful atmosphere
Unique interior design

What People Dislike

Ongoing repairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The mosque is located in the Anfushi district of Alexandria. Taxis or ride-sharing apps are convenient options. Many visitors mention it's a well-known landmark, so drivers should be familiar with it. TikTok+1

Yes, it's a prominent landmark in Alexandria, often mentioned alongside other key attractions. TikTok+1

Depending on your accommodation, walking might be an option, especially if you're exploring the coastal areas of Alexandria. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, tickets are not required for entry to the mosque. It's a place of worship, and access is generally free. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, mosques are typically open throughout the day, with closures during prayer times. It's best to visit outside of the main prayer services. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for tourists. Donations are always appreciated to help with maintenance. Reddit

🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience

Modest attire is essential. Ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Women are advised to cover their heads. Instagram

Yes, women are welcome to visit. They should adhere to the modest dress code, which may include covering their hair. Reddit

Information on wheelchair accessibility is limited, but many older structures may have limitations. It's advisable to inquire locally if this is a concern. Reddit

Visitors are expected to be respectful, avoid loud noises, and refrain from eating or drinking inside, except during designated times if applicable. Reddit

It's named after the 13th-century Sufi saint Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi and is a major cultural and historical landmark in Alexandria. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside, but it's always best to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during prayer times. Instagram

The intricate interior ceiling and the exterior architecture offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding area also provides scenic views. Instagram+1

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the mosque's aesthetic. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque with children can be a peaceful and educational experience. The mosque's serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture can be captivating for younger visitors. Ensure children are dressed modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and have a head covering if needed. Instagram The availability of books on Islam in different languages might offer a chance for older children to learn something new. Reddit While there are no specific play areas, the open spaces within and around the mosque can provide some room for children to move, provided they remain quiet and respectful. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is a photographer's delight, offering stunning Islamic architecture both inside and out. The intricate interior details, particularly the ceiling, are a highlight. InstagramReddit Aim for late afternoons to capture the mosque in the warm glow of the golden hour. Reddit Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times. Instagram The exterior, with its cream-colored walls and minarets, also provides excellent framing opportunities, especially with the Mediterranean Sea nearby. Instagram

🕌 Spiritual Seekers

For those seeking a spiritual experience, the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque offers a tranquil environment centered around the mausoleum of a revered 13th-century Sufi saint. Instagram The mosque's peaceful ambiance, combined with its historical and religious significance, makes it a place for reflection and contemplation. Reddit Visitors often find solace and a sense of connection to the past within its walls. Reddit The availability of Islamic texts can also aid in deepening one's understanding and spiritual journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels and History

The Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is a significant landmark in Alexandria, Egypt, renowned for its striking Islamic architecture. Originally built in 1775, it has undergone renovations and rebuilding, with its current form largely dating back to the 1940s. The mosque was designed by Italian architects Eugenio Valzania and Mario Rossi, drawing inspiration from the historic buildings of Old Cairo. Instagram+1 Its design is a beautiful fusion of traditional North African and Islamic styles, characterized by its cream-colored walls, imposing minarets, and a grand central dome. Instagram The mosque is dedicated to Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, a 13th-century Sufi saint from Murcia, Spain, who settled in Alexandria and became a prominent spiritual figure. His mausoleum is housed within the mosque, making it a site of pilgrimage and spiritual significance. Instagram+1

The interior of the mosque is equally captivating, featuring intricate geometric patterns, vibrant mosaics, and beautifully adorned domes. Reddit Unlike some more traditional mosque designs, the interior ceiling has been noted for its unique aesthetic. Reddit Visitors often remark on the peaceful ambiance, even with some ongoing repairs internally. Reddit The mosque also houses a space with books on Islam in various languages, specifically curated for tourists to take and learn from, reflecting its role as a cultural bridge. Reddit

Beyond its religious and architectural importance, the mosque is a testament to Alexandria's rich Islamic heritage. It stands as a prominent cultural landmark, attracting both local worshippers and international tourists eager to explore its history and beauty. Instagram+1 Its location overlooking the eastern harbor adds to its picturesque setting. Instagram The mosque is often mentioned in conjunction with the nearby Imam Al-Busiri Mosque, which shares a similar architectural style and is located on the seashore. Instagram

Visiting Etiquette and Practicalities

When planning your visit to the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, understanding the local customs and etiquette is key to a respectful and enjoyable experience. As a place of worship, modest dress is paramount. Visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees. For women, it is advisable to have a headscarf or shawl readily available, as covering the head is often required. Instagram This ensures that all visitors can participate in the spiritual atmosphere without causing offense. Reddit

It's also important to be mindful of prayer times. While the mosque is generally open throughout the day, it will close briefly during the five daily prayers. Visiting outside of these times will allow for a more tranquil experience and better opportunities for exploration and photography. Reddit The mosque is known for its peaceful ambiance, and maintaining this serenity is appreciated by worshippers and fellow visitors alike. Reddit Some reviews mention ongoing repairs, so be prepared for potential minor disruptions, though the overall experience remains positive. Reddit

For those interested in learning more, the mosque provides a thoughtful touch by offering books on Islam in various languages for tourists to take, fostering understanding and cultural exchange. Reddit While there are no entrance fees, donations are always welcome and contribute to the upkeep of this historic site. Reddit Photography is generally allowed, but it's always best to be discreet, avoid flash, and be particularly considerate during prayer times. Instagram

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