Al-Rifa’i Mosque Cairo
A majestic mosque housing royal tombs and Iran's last Shah, blending Islamic architecture with poignant history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Al-Rifa’i Mosque Cairo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic mosque housing royal tombs and Iran's last Shah, blending Islamic architecture with poignant history.
"A serene and quiet place for worship, also the resting place of Egyptian kings and Iran's last Shah."
Combine with Citadel Visit
Easily accessible from Cairo Citadel, plan to visit both sites together for a comprehensive historical experience. :world_map:
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :womaninturban:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Mausoleums
Interior
Resting place of Egyptian royalty and Iran's last Shah, a poignant historical intersection.
Grand Architecture
Exterior & Interior
Admire the high ceilings, 44 imposing pillars, and intricate Islamic design details.
Tomb of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi
Interior
A significant historical site for Iranians, offering a moment of reflection on exile and heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Attire & Tipping
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Citadel Visit
Easily accessible from Cairo Citadel, plan to visit both sites together for a comprehensive historical experience. :world_map:
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :womaninturban:
I am in Cairo, what should I see before leaving?
Al-Rifa'i Mosque (completed 1912) is located in Midan al-Qal'a adjacent to the Cairo Citadel. Now, it is also the royal mausoleum of Muhammad Ali's family.
Beware of Shoe Tippers
Be prepared for unsolicited shoe-shining or guiding services; a small tip may be expected. :moneywithwings:
Entrance Fee
Unusual for mosques, there's an entrance fee, so be prepared. :ticket:
Graves of President Sadat and Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi of Iran
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Citadel Visit
Easily accessible from Cairo Citadel, plan to visit both sites together for a comprehensive historical experience. :world_map:
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :womaninturban:
Beware of Shoe Tippers
Be prepared for unsolicited shoe-shining or guiding services; a small tip may be expected. :moneywithwings:
Entrance Fee
Unusual for mosques, there's an entrance fee, so be prepared. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al-Rifa'i Mosque is praised for its serene atmosphere, impressive Islamic architecture, and the unique historical significance of housing the tombs of Egyptian royalty and Iran's last Shah. Visitors appreciate the quiet ambiance, offering a peaceful respite. However, some note the unexpected entrance fee and the potential for unsolicited tipping requests for shoe-shining or guiding services.
"A very serene and quiet place for worship. It is also the place where several kings of Egypt and the last Shah of Iran were buried. However, do beware of people asking for tips for “safeguarding” your shoes while you are at the mosque or for showing you around!"
Michael Chiang
"Just a beautiful mosque, far from the city center where you get hassled a lot. Originally, it was a much smaller mosque built here at first - 12th century - but it grew bigger over time. It has a capacity of 10000 people and it.s arhitecture is superb. It.s quite here so it.s a pleasure to just relax and enjoy the history. The building is located opposite the Madrasa of Sultan Hassan, which dates from around 1361. Take your time to visit both and also the Citadel which is very close by."
bogdan alexandru bola
"Inside the majestic Al-Rifa’i Mosque in Cairo lies a quiet but powerful space, the tomb of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran. Though far from his homeland, the Shah rests with dignity among Egyptian royalty, a symbol of a complicated yet proud chapter in Iranian history.
Standing before his tomb, I felt a deep sense of reflection and pride. Despite the political turbulence that forced him into exile, he is remembered here with respect. The setting is humble, but the moment carries weight, not just as a reminder of a fallen monarch, but of a nation’s resilience, identity, and history.
As a Persian, I believe this is a place every Iranian should see at least once. It’s not just about paying respects to a former king, it’s about connecting with our past, acknowledging our story, and feeling pride in our heritage, even in exile. Seeing the Shah’s name inscribed in Persian script, far from Iran but not forgotten, moved me more than I expected.
This tomb is not just a piece of history, it’s a quiet, dignified corner of Egypt where a part of Iran still lives."
A.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Al-Rifa'i Mosque is located in Midan al-Qal'a, adjacent to the Cairo Citadel. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing app. It's also within walking distance of the Citadel, making it easy to combine your visit.
Yes, it's very close to the Cairo Citadel and the Mosque and Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, allowing for a convenient exploration of historical sites in one area.
These two mosques are right next to each other, so you can easily walk between them in just a few minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, unlike many mosques in Egypt, Al-Rifa'i Mosque does charge an entrance fee. Be sure to have some cash ready for this.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during the day to fully appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
As an active place of worship, it's best to avoid visiting during peak prayer times to ensure a peaceful experience for worshippers and visitors alike.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
The interior is known for its high ceilings, 44 grand pillars, and the significant tombs of Egyptian royals and Iran's last Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive shots. Focus on the architecture and historical elements.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. This is a place of worship, so respectful attire is essential.
The tombs themselves are the main draw, particularly the tomb of the Shah of Iran, which holds significant historical and emotional weight for many visitors.
🎫 👑 History & Significance
The mosque serves as the royal mausoleum for Muhammad Ali's family, including several Egyptian kings, and also houses the tomb of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran.
It's a significant Islamic site that also holds a unique place in Iranian history due to the burial of its last monarch, symbolizing a complex relationship between the two nations.
The mosque was completed in 1912, though its origins trace back to an earlier, smaller mosque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the entrance fee and the need for modest dress. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the heat and potential fatigue for children. The proximity to the Cairo Citadel also means you can combine this visit with other attractions that might be more engaging for kids, like exploring the fortress.
🇮🇷 Visitors from Iran
It's a place to pay respects and reflect on a complex chapter of Iranian history. The inscription of the Shah's name in Persian script is often highlighted as a particularly poignant detail. Be prepared for an entrance fee, which is unusual for religious sites in Egypt.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal and Imperial Connection
Visitors often describe a profound sense of reflection and pride when standing before the Shah's tomb. Despite the political turbulence that led to his exile, he is remembered here with dignity. The setting, though humble, carries significant weight, serving not just as a reminder of a fallen monarch but as a symbol of a nation's resilience and history. For many Persians, it's a pilgrimage to connect with their past and feel pride in their heritage, even in a foreign land.
This historical intersection is a testament to the complex relationships that have shaped the Middle East. The mosque's architecture itself, with its grand scale and intricate details, provides a fitting backdrop for these significant historical figures. It's a place where history is not just read about, but felt.
Architectural Grandeur and Serenity
Despite its imposing size and historical weight, many visitors find the mosque to be a surprisingly serene and quiet place for worship and contemplation. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Cairo, allowing visitors to relax and absorb the history and beauty of the surroundings.
The mosque's location adjacent to the Cairo Citadel and opposite the Madrasa of Sultan Hassan further enhances its appeal, making it part of a cluster of significant historical and architectural sites that can be explored together.
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