Al-Azhar Park

Overview

Al-Azhar Park is a 30-hectare green oasis carved from a 500-year-old rubbish dump in the heart of Islamic Cairo. Designed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, it is widely considered one of the most successful urban park projects in the world.

Highlights

• Ayyubid Wall: During construction, a 12th-century Ayyubid fortification wall was uncovered and restored along the park's eastern edge.
• Lake and Fountains: Formal gardens, cascading water features, and a central lake surrounded by palms.
• Hilltop View: A panoramic viewpoint at the park's summit overlooking the minarets of Islamic Cairo.

History

Opened in 2005, the park was developed on a site that had served as the city's main rubbish dump for over 500 years. The Aga Khan Trust invested $30 million to transform the 30-hectare mound into a park and simultaneously restore the adjacent Darb al-Ahmar neighbourhood.

Visitor Tips

• Evening: The park is particularly beautiful at sunset and stays open late with illuminated fountains.
• Restaurants: Two on-site restaurants — the Lakeside Café and the hilltop Citadel View Restaurant — offer excellent Egyptian cuisine.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.