Al-Hakim Mosque

One of Egypt's most fascinating kings was Caliph Al-Hakim. This Fatimid ruler was infamous for his terrifying rule over the land, which included the frequent murder of his royal household staff, nightly patrols of his city's streets while disguised as a donkey to ensure his subjects were behaving themselves, and the issuing of bizarre decrees across the nation (such as banning the eating of the Egyptian mallow-leaf, called molokheya, because only he wanted to be able to consume it).

Al-Hakim Mosque, completed in 1013 CE, has served as a madrassa, Crusader fortification, and psychiatric institution over the ages. It underwent a comprehensive restoration in the 1980s. The most remarkable architectural features in this area are the minarets. They were once round, but after Cairo's earthquake in 1303, they were rebuilt, giving them their current square shell and domed top parts (which resemble an Arab incense burner).

Al-Hakim Mosque is situated between two of the most significant gates in the old neighborhood. The mosque's Bab el-Nasr (Gate of Victory) and Bab el-Futuh (Gate of Conquests), both of which were constructed in 1087, resemble the ancient Roman town gates in shape. Follow Al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah Street all the way north to reach the Mosque of Al-Hakim from the Al-Azhar Mosque.

Address: In Front Of Air Defense House 3 Masr El Saudia Buildings, Nasr C, Cairo, Cairo

Phone: +20 2 25929771

Rating: 4.0/5.0, 64 Tripadvisor reviews