Overview:

Abou El-Haggag Mosque is a historical landmark situated at the edge of the Nile. It is one of the largest mosques in the city of Luxor and the country of Egypt. It is dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Abu El-Haggag and dates back to the 12th century Fatimid Caliphate. The mosque contains a number of traditional Islamic features such as an ancient fountain, an open courtyard, and a central prayer hall.Today, this grand mosque still serves as a house of worship for the city’s Muslim residents as well as visitors from around the world. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Egypt
Prominent Features:

- The El-Haggag Mosque is the oldest mosque in Luxor, Egypt. - It is located in the East Bank of the city, near the Nilebank and the Karnak Temple complex. - The mosque was built by the Fatimid dynasty in the late tenth century. - It was built in a unique style that combines elements of Fatimid, Persian, and Egyptian architecture. - The main entrance to the mosque is flanked by two minarets, and there are several ancient inscriptions on the walls. - The mosque also includes a large courtyard, several arched entrances, two large domes, and two minarets. - Inside the mosque, there is a richly decorated mihrab that faces Mecca. - The mosque also includes a carved domed mausoleum that contains the remains of Sheikh Abu El-Haggag, the founder of the mosque. - The mosque is an important religious site for Muslims living in Luxor, and it is visited by many pilgrims during the annual moulid festival. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Egypt.

History:

Abou El-Haggag Mosque is located in the Luxor city in Lower Egypt. The mosque is named after the well-known 11th century hermit and “Habib el Haggag” as he was known by the locals. Abou El-Haggag Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the region, with its construction starting in the 10th century during the rule of the Fatimid dynasty. The mosque was built on the remains of a temple dedicated to the ancient Egyptian god Khonsu, who is connected to the moon and Muḥyid al-Dīn Abū al-Haggāg was its most famous worshiper. The mosque has been subject to various renovations throughout the centuries. It was largely destroyed in 1681 during the conquest of Egypt by Napoleon's forces. It was then restored in 1838 during the reign of Mohamed Ali Pasha. The mosque currently stands as a two-story structure with two levels of prayer halls, and is ornamented with mihrabs and inscriptions from the Quran. Today, Abou El-Haggag Mosque serves as a centre of local worship as well as a popular tourist attraction. Every year, the local council hosts the Abou El-Haggag Festival in the mosque to celebrate its history and importance to the city. During this event, it is customary for locals to gather at the mosque and partake in various religious and cultural activities, such as Quran readings and musical performances. Visit one of the famous monuments of Egypt with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Abou El-Haggag Mosque is the oldest mosque in Egypt, dating back to the Fatimid Caliphate in the 11th century. 2. The mosque is located in the heart of the old city of Luxor and stands on the eastern side of Karnak Temple. 3. Abou El-Haggag Mosque contains a mausoleum of the Prophet Mohammad’s great-grandson, a descendant of the prophet’s daughter Fatima. 4. The mosque is part of the Mosque of Akef Al-Haggag, which is one of the most important and revered religious complexes in Luxor. 5. The mosque is an example of Islamic architecture, featuring a traditional Mamluk entrance, several domes, and a unique detailing of various geometric shapes. 6. The building is decorated with the signature horse head motifs, reflecting the Islamic civilization’s profound relationship with horses. 7. Abou El-Haggag Mosque has a spacious courtyard, surrounded by distinct pillars, minarets, and domes. 8. The complex houses an impressive Quran library and a small museum highlighting religious objects. 9. Abou El-Haggag Mosque is home to an annual Sufi festival every June, where visitors are allowed to enter the complex and experiencethe traditional Sufi culture of Luxor. One of the historical monuments of Egypt, it tells the story of a bygone era