Mosque of Muhammad Ali

The Muhammad Ali Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, is a mosque located in the Citadel of Cairo, Egypt. It was commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha and built between 1832 and 1857. Overlooking the city, it is one of the most visible mosques and landmarks in the skyline of Cairo. Unlike the traditional Cairene architecture that preceded it, the mosque was built in an entirely Ottoman and European-influenced style, further setting it apart from other monuments. It is sometimes called the Alabaster Mosque due to the prominent use of alabaster as a covering for its walls.

The site is tied to the history and living traditions of Egypt. Distinguish oral tradition, ceremonial practice and documented archaeology, and treat sacred spaces with care.

Among its defining features, overlooking the city, it is one of the most visible mosques and landmarks in the skyline of Cairo. Among its defining features, unlike the traditional Cairene architecture that preceded it, the mosque was built in an entirely Ottoman and European-influenced style, further setting it apart from other monuments. Among its defining features, it is sometimes called the Alabaster Mosque due to the prominent use of alabaster as a covering for its walls. Among its defining features, the mosque was built within the Cairo Citadel on the orders of Muhammad Ali, an Ottoman governor who took control in Egypt, gained autonomy, and initiated an extensive program of reforms. Among its defining features, in order to accommodate his mosque and new palaces in the Citadel, Muhammad Ali demolished the old and partially ruined Mamluk-era palaces that stood on this site.

Typical visits include guided tours, quiet viewing, photography where permitted and learning from on-site interpreters or community guides.

Check opening hours, entry fees, dress expectations and photography rules before arrival. Some sites limit access during ceremonies or maintenance.