Al-Hakim Mosque Cairo
A thousand-year-old Fatimid masterpiece on Al-Muizz Street, Al-Hakim Mosque blends history, spirituality, and stunning Islamic architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Al-Hakim Mosque Cairo
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A thousand-year-old Fatimid masterpiece on Al-Muizz Street, Al-Hakim Mosque blends history, spirituality, and stunning Islamic architecture.
"A peaceful and stunning historical place with detailed tilework and a calm courtyard."
🎯 Modest Dress is a Must
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf for respectful entry.
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light on the architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Tilework and Calligraphy
Interior walls and ceilings
Marvel at the detailed tilework and stunning Quranic inscriptions that adorn the mosque's interior, showcasing exquisite Islamic art.
Grand Courtyard
Central open area
Experience a sense of peace in the expansive courtyard, a tranquil space perfect for reflection and appreciating the mosque's architecture.
Towering Minarets
Exterior
Admire the impressive minarets that stand tall, offering a glimpse into the mosque's historical significance and architectural prowess.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Dress Code and Respectful Visits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Modest Dress is a Must
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf for respectful entry.
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light on the architecture.
🚶♀️ Explore Al-Muizz Street
The mosque is on Al-Muizz Street, a vibrant historical area worth exploring.
🙏 Respect Prayer Times
Be mindful of prayer times; the mosque is still functional.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Modest Dress is a Must
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf for respectful entry.
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light on the architecture.
🚶♀️ Explore Al-Muizz Street
The mosque is on Al-Muizz Street, a vibrant historical area worth exploring.
🙏 Respect Prayer Times
Be mindful of prayer times; the mosque is still functional.
✨ Admire the Details
Take time to appreciate the intricate tilework and calligraphy inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Al-Hakim Mosque for its stunning historical architecture, intricate tilework, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight its beauty and significance as a must-see in Cairo's historic district. Some note ongoing renovations, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"The Hakim Mosque is a peaceful and stunning historical place. The tile work is full of detail, and the courtyard feels calm even when a bit crowded. A must-see spot in Isfahan if you enjoy history and architecture."
Saeed Ghezelbash
"Dating back to the 4th century AH
Hakim Mosque in Isfahan.. Great historical and architectural value
This mosque was built on the ruins of the Gur Giraz Mosque and is one of the buildings dating back to the 4th century AH. According to the existing inscriptions, the architect of this building is Mohammad Ali Ibn Ustad Ali Beyk Isfahani
Hakim Mosque or Gur Giraz Mosque in Isfahan is one of the magnificent mosques with great historical and architectural value and has four balconies.
This mosque was built between 1051 and 1073 AH, which coincided with the reign of King Safi and King Abbas II, by a wise physician named Mohammad Davoud Khan, known as Taqrab Khan.
This mosque was built on the ruins of the Gur Giraz Mosque and is one of the buildings dating back to the 4th century AH. According to the existing inscriptions, the architect of this building is Mohammad Ali, son of Professor Ali Beyk Isfahani.
What makes the Hakim Mosque one of the most magnificent mosques of the Safavid era is its unique architectural value and the numerous inscriptions written by Professor Mohammad Reza Emami, the famous calligrapher of the Safavid era.
As for the other eye-catching parts of this building, it is the beautiful mihrab decorated with arches and inscriptions written in Thuluth script with a blue or sky blue background."
HY KH
"Such a beautiful mosque complex with spectacular Qur'anic writings on ceilings and domes. Entry is free and the mosque is still functional"
Shaik Masood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Al-Hakim Mosque is located in the heart of Old Cairo on Al-Muizz Street. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors also explore it as part of a walking tour of the historic Islamic Cairo district. 
While there isn't a direct metro station to the mosque, you can take the metro to a nearby station like Bab El Shaaria and then a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride. Walking from some central areas is also feasible.
Al-Muizz Street, where the mosque is located, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and best explored on foot. This allows you to discover other historical mosques, madrasas, and souks.
Parking can be challenging in Old Cairo due to narrow streets. It's advisable to use a taxi or ride-sharing service and be dropped off nearby, or utilize designated parking areas if available, though they might be a walk away.
The travel time from Cairo International Airport to Al-Hakim Mosque can vary significantly depending on traffic, typically ranging from 45 minutes to over an hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Al-Hakim Mosque is generally free, making it an accessible historical site for all visitors.
The mosque is typically open daily, but it's advisable to check current hours, especially around prayer times, as it is a functioning place of worship.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
Yes, Al-Hakim Mosque is open during Ramadan and is a popular spot for visitors during this holy month.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women may need to cover their heads. Photography is usually permitted, but be respectful of worshippers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Al-Hakim Mosque, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography during prayer times.
The grand courtyard, the intricate tilework and calligraphy inside, and the towering minarets offer excellent photographic opportunities. The exterior architecture is also very photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and religious sites in Cairo. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best natural light for photography, creating a warm glow on the mosque's facade and interiors.
Always be mindful of worshippers. Avoid intrusive photography and be aware of any signs prohibiting photos in certain areas.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Construction of Al-Hakim Mosque began in 990 AD during the reign of Caliph Al-Aziz and was completed by his son, Caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, in 1013 AD.
The mosque is a prime example of Fatimid architecture, characterized by its robust construction, distinctive minarets, and expansive courtyard. It has undergone renovations over centuries.
Beyond its religious function, the mosque has served as a prison, a fortress, and a school throughout its long history, making it a site of immense historical importance.
Caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah was the sixth Fatimid caliph and the 16th Ismaili Imam, known for his controversial and sometimes erratic rule.
Yes, the mosque has undergone significant renovations over the centuries, including recent extensive restoration efforts that have revitalized its beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep visits relatively short to maintain children's interest, focusing on the grand courtyard and the impressive minarets. Ensure everyone adheres to the modest dress code, which might require extra planning for younger children. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow for a more relaxed exploration.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Be mindful of the mosque's function as a place of worship. While photography is generally permitted, avoid intrusive shots during prayer times. Exploring different angles, from wide shots of the exterior to close-ups of the intricate details, will yield a rich portfolio.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to read any available information or consider hiring a local guide to fully appreciate the historical context and significance of the mosque's architecture and its place in Egyptian history. The inscriptions and architectural elements offer direct connections to the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Thousand Years of History
+1The mosque's architecture reflects the Fatimid style, known for its grandeur and intricate details. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous renovations, with recent extensive restoration efforts breathing new life into its ancient walls. These efforts have aimed to preserve its historical integrity while making it a functional and accessible space for visitors and worshippers alike.
Exploring Al-Hakim Mosque is like stepping back in time. The sheer age of the structure, combined with its varied historical roles, makes it a compelling site for anyone interested in Islamic history and architecture. The ongoing preservation work ensures that its legacy continues to be appreciated by future generations.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details
+1Inside, visitors are captivated by the detailed tilework and calligraphy. The walls and ceilings are adorned with intricate patterns and verses from the Quran, showcasing the mastery of Islamic art and craftsmanship. The mihrab, the niche indicating the direction of Mecca, is particularly noteworthy, often decorated with arches and inscriptions in Thuluth script.
Recent renovations have highlighted these beautiful features, making the mosque a stunning visual experience. The combination of grand scale and delicate artistry makes Al-Hakim Mosque a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and anyone appreciating historical artistry.
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