Mosque of al-Aqmar

Mosque of al-Aqmar

The Mosque of al-Aqmar is located in Cairo, the capital of Egypt. Completed in 1125, it is one of the few surviving mosques from the Fatimid dynasty in Cairo. It stands at the northern end of Muizz Street, within the historic complex of al-Khalifa, near several other architecturally and historically significant buildings. The mosque gets its name from the shimmering silver-like effect on its walls under moonlight—“Aqmar” in Arabic means “moon-lit” or “adorned with moonlight,” and it is sometimes also referred to as the Grey Mosque.

Though small in size, the Mosque of al-Aqmar is a masterpiece of architectural refinement and historical anecdote, attracting a constant stream of visitors throughout the year. It is renowned for the inscriptions and geometric patterns adorning its façade—the first mosque in Cairo to feature such decorative elements on the exterior, and also the first to consider architectural harmony with the surrounding urban fabric. Its walls, façade, and minaret are covered in exquisitely intricate carvings and designs that are truly breathtaking. In the recess of the Persian-style muqarnas niche at the entrance, the names Muhammad and Ali are clearly inscribed.

Al-Aqmar Mosque

Must-visit reason: The only surviving mosque from the Fatimid dynasty in Cairo

Continent where the attraction is located: Africa【Africa】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Egypt[Egypt]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Cairo Governorate [Cairo Governorate]

City where the attraction is located: Cairo [Cairo]