Explore magical cairo by night

Islamic Cairo, located within the heart of central Cairo and encompassing the ancient walled city and the Citadel of Cairo, is a captivating district teeming with a rich history. This area is adorned with an array of historic gems, including numerous mosques, tombs, madrasas, opulent mansions, caravanserais, and formidable fortifications dating back to the Islamic era. The significance of Islamic Cairo led UNESCO to declare it a World Cultural Heritage site in 1979. It's renowned as one of the oldest Islamic cities globally, boasting renowned mosques, madrasas, hammams, and fountains, and standing as a hub of Islamic culture during its pinnacle in the 14th century.

Muizz Street, also known as Al Moez Ldin Allah Al Fatimi Street, is a venerable thoroughfare nestled in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Egypt. Spanning roughly one kilometer in length, this street showcases an unparalleled collection of medieval architectural treasures within the Islamic world. It derives its name from Al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah, the fourth caliph of the Fatimid dynasty. Stretching from Bab Al-Futuh in the north to Bab Zuweila in the south, Muizz Street underwent extensive restoration efforts starting in 1997. The aim was to transform the street into an "open-air museum." On April 24, 2008, Al-Muizz Street was designated.
The northern section of the street spans from the Al-Hakim Mosque to the Spice Market at Al-Azhar Street, encompassing treasures like the Al-Aqmar Mosque, the Qalawun complex, well-preserved medieval mansions, and palaces.

The southern part extends from the Ghuriya complex to Bab Zuweila and includes the splendid Tent Market in the Gamaliya district.

Bab al Futuh, also known as the Conquest Gate, stands as one of the trio of surviving gates within the walls of Old Cairo, Egypt. Its completion in 1087 positions it facing the north and marking the northern extremity of Muizz Street. The remaining two gates are Bab al-Nasr (Victory Gate) to the North and Bab Zuwayla (Gate of Zuwayla) to the south.

The gate forms an integral part of the fortified complex constructed by Commander/Vizier Badr al-Jamali during the reign of Fatimid Imam/caliph Mustansir. Boasting rounded towers that offered superior defense compared to the square towers of Bab al-Nasr, it featured defensive elements like shafts for pouring boiling substances or fiery oil onto assailants, as well as arrow slits. The gate's embellishments are characterized by intricate vegetal and geometric motifs.

The Sultan Al-Ghuri Complex, erected between 1503 and 1505, stands as a grand testament to Islamic architecture. This sprawling complex, situated in the Fahhamin Quarter along al Mu'izz li-Din Allah Street in Cairo, Egypt, encompasses a khanqah, mausoleum, sebil-kuttab, mosque, and madrasa. Spanning both sides of al Mu'izz li-Din Allah Street, the congregational mosque-madrasa graces the western side, while the khanqah-mausoleum-sabil-kuttab occupies the eastern side.

Bab Zuweila, a relic of the ancient walls of Cairo, stands as a symbol of the city's history. Often referred to as Bawabbat al-Mitwali during the Ottoman era, it also goes by the alternate spelling Bab Zuwayla. This gate, the last standing southern gate from the 11th and 12th-century walls of Fatimid Cairo, is considered a prominent landmark. Its name is derived from "Bab," meaning "Door," and "Zuwayla," a Berber warrior tribe from the Western Desert tasked with its protection.

Khan El-Khalili, a bustling souk in the heart of historic Islamic Cairo, holds a position of prominence as a captivating bazaar district. Drawing both tourists and locals alike, this area is a vibrant hub of activity, offering an assortment of goods and an immersive cultural experience.