Mosque of Muhammad Ali | Cairo

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cairo. It is located within the Citadel of Saladin and is one of the most prominent examples of Ottoman architecture in Egypt. Built by Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848, the mosque stands as a symbol of his rule and ambition to modernize Egypt. Its grand domes, towering minarets, and elegant alabaster interior make it one of the most visually striking mosques in the country.

1. Historical Background

Muhammad Ali Pasha, the founder of modern Egypt, ordered the construction of the mosque in memory of his eldest son, Tusun Pasha, who died in 1816.

It was built on the highest point of the Cairo Citadel, where it dominates the skyline of the city.

The mosque was intended to serve as a royal mosque and to demonstrate Muhammad Ali’s power and connection to the Ottoman Empire.

The design was inspired by the famous Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, built by the Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan.

2. Architectural Features

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is a classic example of Ottoman architecture, with elements borrowed from Turkish mosques.

a. Exterior

The mosque is rectangular in shape, with a large central dome surrounded by smaller domes.

The central dome is 52 meters (171 feet) high and has a diameter of 21 meters (69 feet).

Two tall minarets with cylindrical shafts and pointed tips stand at 82 meters (269 feet), making them among the tallest minarets in Cairo.

The exterior is primarily covered in white alabaster, giving the mosque its nickname, the Alabaster Mosque.

The mosque has a courtyard (sahn) measuring 50 x 50 meters, surrounded by colonnades topped with small domes.

b. Interior

The interior is dominated by the central dome, supported by four massive piers.

The walls and pillars are covered with white alabaster, and the upper sections feature intricate gold and floral decorations.

The mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit) are richly decorated with gold and wood carvings.

A grand chandelier, gifted by the French King Louis-Philippe I, hangs in the center of the mosque.

The mosque has multiple windows, allowing natural light to filter in and enhance the grandeur of the space.

3. The Courtyard and Clock Tower

The courtyard of the mosque is surrounded by a colonnade with arcades supported by marble columns.

A central ablution fountain with a decorated domed roof stands in the middle of the courtyard.

On the western side of the courtyard, there is a clock tower, which was a gift from King Louis-Philippe of France in 1845. In exchange, Muhammad Ali gifted the Luxor Obelisk, which now stands in the Place de la Concorde in Paris.

The clock, however, has never functioned properly since it was installed.

4. Religious and Cultural Significance

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is one of the most famous and visited mosques in Egypt.

It serves as a symbol of Muhammad Ali’s rule, reflecting his ambitions to modernize Egypt along Ottoman lines.

The mosque is still actively used for prayers, particularly on Fridays and religious holidays.

It remains one of the most significant examples of Islamic architecture in Egypt.

5. Muhammad Ali’s Tomb

Muhammad Ali Pasha is buried inside the mosque, in a white marble tomb located to the right of the entrance.

His tomb is a beautifully carved structure, featuring intricate decorations and Islamic calligraphy.

Initially, Muhammad Ali was buried elsewhere, but his body was later moved to the mosque by Khedive Abbas I, his successor.

6. Restoration and Preservation

Over time, the mosque suffered from pollution and weather damage, particularly to the alabaster surfaces.

Several restoration projects have been carried out, including a major renovation in the 20th century to preserve the mosque’s structure.

Today, it remains one of Cairo’s most well-preserved historical sites.

7. Tourist Attraction

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is one of Cairo’s top tourist destinations.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo from the Citadel’s high vantage point.

The mosque is often included in tours of Islamic Cairo, along with the Citadel of Saladin, the Mosque of Sultan Hassan, and the Mosque of Al-Rifai.

Conclusion

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is one of Egypt’s most famous Islamic landmarks, representing the fusion of Ottoman architecture with Egyptian history. As a symbol of power, faith, and ambition, it remains one of the most visited sites in Cairo and continues to serve as an active place of worship. With its grand domes, towering minarets, and alabaster-clad walls, it stands as a lasting tribute to Muhammad Ali Pasha’s legacy in shaping modern Egypt.