Medieval Cairo

Medieval Cairo

Also referred to as Islamic Cairo, Medieval Cairo is the home of part of the city’s 16 million people.  An exotic city that is filled with rich history little has changed there over the centuries, and as you walk through this part of the city you will feel as if you have been transported back in time.  Here visitors will find numerous ancient mosques, medieval forts, 1,500 hundred year old markets, and the city that was once ruled by Salah ad-Din, the Muslim warrior that held much of the area from invading Crusader forces, including King Richard the Lionheart.

Over 16 million people call Cairo their home, and this part of the city is probably the most interesting with its warren of narrow streets that are overflowing with life.  On every corner, visitors to Medieval Cairo will find a mosque or a Coptic church and there are medieval gates around the city in unusual places.  The bazaars sell everything and anything and the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar is one of the best for trinkets and souvenirs.  Visitors will also want to visit the Citadel, the Mosque of Mohammed Ali, the Ibn Tulun – one of the largest mosques in the world – and the Al-Azharmosque, which is home to the world’s oldest university having been established in 970 AD.  Many of the university students frequent the shops at the bazaar.

When visiting this part of Cairo, visitors are reminded that the Islam culture is in full force here.  Appropriate clothing should be worn at all times with little skin showing – especially the legs and shoulders.  If you are not sure how to dress, think about what would be acceptable in the city’s many mosques and go from there.  Comfortable walking shoes that can be taken off quickly and easily are also advised when touring this part of Cairo.