City of the Dead (Northern Cemetery), Cairo - a view of a city with a lot of tall buildings
1 / 10

City of the Dead (Northern Cemetery) Cairo

4
·2 reviews·, Egypt

Explore Cairo's City of the Dead, a historic cemetery transformed into a living community with ancient tombs, vibrant art, and unique cultural insight...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
City of the Dead (Northern Cemetery), Cairo - a view of a city with a lot of tall buildings

City of the Dead (Northern Cemetery) Cairo

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Cairo's City of the Dead, a historic cemetery transformed into a living community with ancient tombs, vibrant art, and unique cultural insights.

4
(2 reviews)

"Apocalyptic & creepy but also fascinating and full of history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Hire a Local Guide

Enhances understanding & navigation. Ask locals or your hotel for recommendations.

🚶‍♀️ Dress Modestly

Respectful attire is key when visiting this living community.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Living Community

Living Community

Witness a unique blend of ancient tombs and modern homes where residents live amongst the departed.

Instagram
Artistic Expressions

Artistic Expressions

Discover vibrant street art, sculptures, and crafts by local artists scattered throughout the cemetery.

Instagram+1
Historic Mausoleums

Historic Mausoleums

Explore centuries-old architectural marvels, including grand mausoleums and mosque minarets.

TikTok
Glass Factory & Art Hubs

Glass Factory & Art Hubs

Visit unique spots like the glass factory and art galleries showcasing Egyptian heritage and contemporary art.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Necropolis

The City of the Dead is a vast, living community within a historic cemetery. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights and to navigate potential persistent vendors. Reddit+1

Respectful Exploration

This is a place of both history and daily life. Dress modestly and be mindful of residents. While fascinating, be prepared for a unique atmosphere. TikTok

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Less intense heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Mostafa Apocalyptic & creepy but also fascinating and full of history. #cityofthedead #cairo #egypt #minaret
@marklharrison
64.9K likes • 920.9K views

🤝 Hire a Local Guide

Enhances understanding & navigation. Ask locals or your hotel for recommendations. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Dress Modestly

Respectful attire is key when visiting this living community. Instagram

💀☺️THE CITY OF THE DEAD — Cairo Necropolis: half-day itinerary (solo-travelers friendly) The City of the Dead, located in Cairo, is an expansive centuries-old cemetery that has evolved into a fascinating blend of burial grounds and a living community. It offers visitors a unique insight into Egypt’s history, culture, and the resilience of its people. 👀What to See: 1. Living Community: • Witnes...
alexploringlife
529 likes • 0 views
A perfect day exploring street art, crafts and history in The City of the Dead with @masq.hub ❤️ 1) mural by local artists 2) jewelry at @mishka.handcrafts 3) glassblower at @khaledaliglass 4) new sculpture by Zeinab Sobhy 5) sculpture by @hagrasmahmoud at @craftastic.hub 6) Professor Bernard O'Kane giving the inaugural lecture of the Celebrating Heritage series at @masq.hub 7) close-up of a m...
vanillapapers
153 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the Art

Look out for vibrant street art and sculptures around every corner. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Cairo can be hot; carry plenty of water, especially when exploring on foot. TikTok

*City of the Dead Tour* 😅🙀 One of the most fascinating experiences you’ll ever have! 💖 The cemetery is a must-visit—it’s not just a resting place but a living hub filled with mesmerizing art and people who still reside there 🙃. Don’t miss out on the *Glass Factory* , one of the most unique spots in the area, and be sure to check out the *Art Gallery* , showcasing Egypt’s captivating history f...
malaka.khalil
35 likes • 729 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Hire a Local Guide

Enhances understanding & navigation. Ask locals or your hotel for recommendations. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Dress Modestly

Respectful attire is key when visiting this living community. Instagram

📸 Capture the Art

Look out for vibrant street art and sculptures around every corner. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Cairo can be hot; carry plenty of water, especially when exploring on foot. TikTok

💰 Be Prepared for Vendors

Politely decline persistent vendors if not interested. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(2 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the City of the Dead a profoundly fascinating and historically rich experience, offering a unique glimpse into a living community within an ancient cemetery. While some find the atmosphere intense and encounter persistent vendors, the captivating architecture, vibrant street art, and the sheer uniqueness of the place leave a lasting impression.

"Study cemeteries behind Al-Azhar Sheikhdom"

Ahmed Gad

""

Bahy Mo

What People Like

Unique living community
Historical architecture
Vibrant street art

What People Dislike

Persistent vendors
Intense atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the City of the Dead by taxi or ride-sharing app. It's advisable to have your driver wait or arrange a return trip, as finding transport within the cemetery can be challenging. TikTok

While many visitors explore solo, it's recommended to be aware of your surroundings. Hiring a local guide can enhance safety and provide valuable context. Reddit+1

Walking is the best way to experience the City of the Dead. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain. TikTok

Public transport options are limited and can be confusing for tourists. Taxis or ride-sharing services are generally more convenient and direct. Reddit

Parking can be difficult to find. It's best to rely on taxis or ride-sharing services that can drop you off at a convenient entrance. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no official entrance tickets for the City of the Dead itself, as it's a living community. However, some specific attractions or guided tours within the area may have fees. Instagram

As it's a residential area, there are no strict opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. TikTok

Entry to most mausoleums is not permitted or may require special arrangements. Focus on admiring their exteriors and the surrounding architecture. Reddit

Yes, booking a guided tour in advance is highly recommended, especially if you want a local guide who can explain the history and culture. Reddit

While generally allowed, be respectful when photographing residents or their homes. Always ask for permission if unsure. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Look for elevated viewpoints from minarets or nearby buildings for panoramic shots. The intricate details of mausoleums and vibrant street art also make for great photos. TikTokInstagram

It's best to ask for permission before photographing residents. Many are accustomed to visitors, but respect their privacy. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the expansive cemetery views. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and a softer glow, enhancing the atmosphere. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in Cairo and may require special permits. It's best to avoid flying drones in this area. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options within the cemetery itself are limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit in nearby areas like Islamic Cairo. Reddit

Cairo offers delicious Egyptian cuisine, including koshary, ful medames, and various grilled meats. Explore local eateries for authentic flavors. Reddit

The Al-Azhar area and Khan el-Khalili bazaar nearby offer numerous traditional Egyptian restaurants and cafes. Reddit

While tempting, it's best to exercise caution with street food. Opt for busy stalls with high turnover and ensure food is cooked thoroughly. Reddit

Yes, many Egyptian dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be made so, such as koshary and various vegetable stews. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the City of the Dead with children requires careful consideration. While it offers a unique historical and cultural experience, the environment can be intense. Focus on the visual aspects like the grand architecture and the vibrant street art, which can capture a child's imagination. Instagram+1 Consider a guided tour that is specifically tailored for families, ensuring a safe and informative experience. Emphasize the 'living' aspect of the community to help children understand the unique way of life. Keep the visit relatively short and ensure children have plenty of water and snacks. TikTok

🚶 Solo Travelers

The City of the Dead can be a fascinating solo exploration, but it's wise to be prepared. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety and to gain deeper insights into the history and community. Reddit+1 Be aware of your surroundings and politely but firmly decline persistent vendors. Dress modestly to show respect for the local residents. Instagram The visual richness of the architecture and street art provides ample opportunities for photography and personal reflection. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the City of the Dead is a treasure trove of unique shots. The contrast between ancient tombs and modern life, the intricate architectural details, and the vibrant street art offer endless possibilities. TikTokInstagram+1 Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Elevated viewpoints from minarets or surrounding buildings provide stunning panoramic vistas. Remember to be respectful when photographing residents and always ask for permission. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

History and Evolution of the City of the Dead

The City of the Dead, also known as the Northern Cemetery or Al-Arafa, is one of Cairo's most unique and historically significant sites. Its origins date back to the Mamluk Sultanate (13th-16th centuries), when it was established as a burial ground for royalty and the elite. Over centuries, it expanded and evolved, becoming a sprawling necropolis with elaborate mausoleums, mosques, and tombs. The most striking aspect of the City of the Dead is its transformation into a living community. Driven by Cairo's rapid population growth and housing shortages, many people began to inhabit the tombs and surrounding structures, creating a vibrant, albeit unconventional, urban landscape. This coexistence of the living and the dead is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Cairo's residents. TikTokReddit

Exploring this area offers a profound glimpse into Egyptian history, culture, and social dynamics. You'll encounter stunning Islamic architecture, from grand domed mausoleums to intricate minarets, showcasing the artistry of different historical periods. Beyond the historical structures, the cemetery is now adorned with contemporary street art and sculptures, reflecting a modern artistic movement thriving within this ancient space. Instagram+1 This blend of the ancient and the modern, the sacred and the everyday, makes the City of the Dead a truly captivating destination that challenges conventional notions of urban spaces and cemeteries. It's a place where history is not just preserved but actively lived. Instagram

Experiencing the Art Scene

The City of the Dead has become an unexpected canvas for a burgeoning art scene. Local artists have embraced the unique environment, transforming walls and structures into vibrant displays of street art and murals. These artworks often reflect Egyptian culture, history, and social commentary, adding a dynamic layer to the historical landscape. Instagram+1

Beyond graffiti and murals, you can discover sculptures and installations by contemporary Egyptian artists. Organizations and hubs like @masq.hub have played a role in fostering this artistic presence, organizing exhibitions and supporting local talent. Visitors can also find unique handicrafts and artisanal products, such as jewelry and glasswork, from local creators within the area. Instagram+1 This artistic dimension offers a fresh perspective on the City of the Dead, showcasing its evolution from a purely historical site to a space of contemporary creative expression. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of art, history, and urban culture. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2