White courtyard of Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, surrounded by arcades, with two minarets and a few visitors.

Al-Azhar Mosque

Courtyard, arcades and minarets reflect a long tradition of Islamic learning; a visit has to respect prayer times and the day's access rules.

  • Religion and architecture
  • Suggested time:45 minutes to 1 hour
  • Area:Historic Cairo, Al-Darb Al-Ahmar and Al-Gamaliya

About Al-Azhar Mosque

The bright courtyard organizes your arrival at Al-Azhar Mosque, among arcades and minarets from different building phases. Islamic learning is part of the identity of the place, which remains devoted to prayer and study. The buildings tell that story through additions.

Ask at the entrance about visitor access. Wear clothing that covers arms and legs and bring a scarf, take off your shoes as directed and do not walk in front of people praying. If there is a service or a restriction, adjust your outing to the nearby streets and return when allowed.

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Image credit

  • Al-Azhar's bright courtyard mirrors the arcades and lets the minarets join the view.Photo: Radosław Botev · CC BY 3.0 pl · original

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