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Egypt & North Africa
Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Saladin Citadel, Cairo, Egypt
The "Alabaster Mosque," Cairo's highest landmark: a half-dome carried on four semi-domes, two of Egypt's tallest minarets (82 m), and walls sheathed in alabaster that make the whole building gleam like a white vessel on the Citadel hill, overlooking all of Cairo.
Story & history
Muhammad Ali wanted to leave his mark above Saladin's Citadel, so he built a mosque modelled on the sultanic mosques of Istanbul, summoning Greek and Turkish architects and spending lavishly on alabaster until his minarets out-topped every tower in Cairo. Modern Egypt's state ceremonies were received here, and it became one of the most reproduced images of the city worldwide.
Getting there
Pin the site on the map or head straight there with your maps app; opening hours and access vary by season.
Quick facts
- Alabaster brought from Beni Suef
- Twin minarets among Egypt's tallest
- Contains Muhammad Ali's marble tomb
Visiting tip
Morning, with the Citadel ticket; the courtyard offers a panorama stretching to the Giza pyramids.