Muhammad Ali Mosque

Overview

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is Cairo's most recognizable landmark. Its Ottoman-style twin minarets and massive central dome dominate the skyline from within the Saladin Citadel.

Highlights

• The Dome Interior: The vast prayer hall is lit by a forest of chandeliers and globe-shaped glass lanterns, with walls clad in alabaster up to 11 metres high.
• The Clock Tower: In the courtyard stands a French clock gifted by King Louis-Philippe in 1845 as thanks for the Luxor Obelisk now in Place de la Concorde, Paris — it has never worked.
• The Courtyard Fountain: A beautiful ablution fountain beneath a canopy of carved marble.

History

Commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848, it was built in the Ottoman imperial style modelled after Istanbul's Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Muhammad Ali — the founder of modern Egypt — is buried in a marble tomb in the mosque's courtyard.

Visitor Tips

• Shoes Off: Shoe covers are provided at the entrance, or remove your shoes entirely.
• Best Time: Visit at sunset when the alabaster walls glow with golden light.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.