Overview:

Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Cairo, Egypt. It is considered a center of learning for followers of Sunni Islam and has been a major figure in Islamic scholarship since its founding in 972. Al-Azhar Mosque has been the site of numerous Sunni-Shia dialogues, a symbol of Islamic culture, and an iconic representation of Islamic education. The mosque and its associated university, Al-Azhar University, are home to thousands of students, faculty, and religious leaders from around the world. Additionally, Al-Azhar Mosque is the largest Mosque in Egypt and one of the primary religious sites in the world's Islamic world, containing an extensive collection of priceless manuscripts and artifacts. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Egypt
Prominent Features:

1.Arabic Islamic Architecture: Al-Azhar Mosque was built in the Fatimid architectural style, combining both the Arab and Egyptian Islamic architectures. 2.Gorgeous Minarets: The mosque features four 263-foot tall minarets, two of which were built in the 16th century and two which were renovated in the modern era. 3.Dome: Al-Azhar features a large dome, which is supported by four pillars and decorated with intricate geometric patterns of Islamic art. 4.Courtyard: The mosque has a large courtyard in the center, which is surrounded by arcades and shady porticoes. 5.Grand Halls: The mosque has two grand halls, which are located on either side of the courtyard. The east hall was originally used for religious gatherings and lectures, while the west hall was used as a library. 6.Colors and Decoration: The mosque is built with vibrant colors and intricate decorations, with some sections featuring intricate floral designs carved into the walls. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Egypt.

History:

Al-Azhar Mosque is the oldest mosque in Egypt. Situated in the heart of Islamic Cairo, The mosque is named after the Fatimid dynasty's al-Azhar University, the world's oldest institution of higher education in the Islamic world, which grew up around it over the centuries. The exact date of the founding of Al-Azhar Mosque is not known as records only date back to the Fatimid period (969-1171). The mosque was destroyed several times in Egypt’s history, especially during the Mamluk era, and always rebuilt larger and grander. During the rule of Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, the mosque was restored between 1309 and 1341 and the iconic minaret was added. The mosque was also home to the renowned al-Azhar University, founded by the Fatimids in 970. The mosque complex has an ancient library, which contains collections of ancient inscriptions, manuscripts, and coins. Various mausoleums, such as that of Ayyubids, Mamluks, and Ottomans, are also located on the grounds of the mosque. Today, Al-Azhar Mosque remains an important symbol of Islamic learning and culture in Egypt. It is visited by thousands of worshippers on a daily basis. The mosque holds several lectures, and the adjacent university is still a respected center of learning. Visit one of the famous monuments of Egypt with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo is the oldest and largest mosque in Egypt and second oldest in the Islamic world. 2. It was built in 970 AD by the Fatimid Dynasty and has been used an an Islamic university since 988 AD. 3. The mosque of Al Azhar stands in the middle of the old part of Cairo and is considered to be one of the most illustrious Islamic universities in the world. 4. The library of Al Azhar has more than 120,000 original Islamic manuscripts dating back to the founding of the university 5. Al Azhar university provides higher education in Islamic studies and Arabic, making it one of the most prestigious universities in the Islamic world. 6. Al Azhar has long been considered a beacon of Sunni Islamic thought because of its strict adherence to conservative Islamic principles and support for traditional Islamic scholarship. 7. Al Azhar is home to some of the oldest and most impressive Islamic architecture in existence. 8. Al Azhar is a symbol of Islamic unity, drawing people from all over the Islamic world to its campus to learn and pray. One of the historical monuments of Egypt, it tells the story of a bygone era