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You will discover the rich history and architectural marvels of Cairo's Al Hussein Mosque in this immersive article. Explore the evolution of the mosque, its captivating blend of Fatimid and Gothic revival architecture, and the recent renovations that have preserved its timeless allure.
In the heart of the bustling city, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the ebb and flow of humanity, there stands a majestic testament to faith and architectural brilliance - the Al Hussein Mosque. Its towering minarets pierce the sky, whispering ancient tales to the heavens, while the ornate domes cradle the dreams and prayers of those who seek solace within its hallowed walls.
In this article, you will go through the hallowed halls and mosaic-laden courtyards of Al Hussein Mosque as we unravel the layers of its history, explore the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time, and delve into the spiritual sanctuary that beckons both locals and wanderers alike.
The magnificent Al Hussein mosque can be found in the heart of Islamic Cairo in the golden Al Azhar street area near Khan El-Khalili Bazaar in Sayyida Zeinab Square. It can be reached very easily through several different modes of transportation: taxis, public buses, or the Cairo Metro.
It is advised to hire a travel agency that will handle all the transportation and provide a tour guide that will shed light on the history and architecture of this miraculous wonder.
Abū ʿAbd Allāh al-Ḥusayn ibn ʿAlī is a marvelous and influential figure in the history of Islam who was known as the grandson of Islamic prophet Muhammad and the son of Ali ibn Abi Talib and Fatima, Muhammad's daughter. He was known as the younger brother of Hasan Ibn Ali who was the third Imam of Shia Islam. The prophet Muhammed referred to him and his brother as "The Leaders of the Youth of Paradise". Al Hussein supported him in the time of wars during the time of the caliphate of Ali.
He and his brother stayed in Medina to avoid any kind of political involvement between his brother Hasan's abdication in 660 AD and his death in 669 AD. After his older brother died, the public of Iraq chose Hussein to become the new leader and make his move after the death of the caliphate Mu'awiya, who passed away around 680 AD. Then his son Yazid took over and sought the allegiance of Hussein who he refused and left Medina for Mecca.
The tribe of Kufa asked Hussein to be their Imam and he accepted. On his way there, he was intercepted by a Umayyad army, leading to the Battle of Karbala on October 10, 680 where he was killed. This battle marked the creation of the pro-Alid party (Shi'at Ali) which is prominent in Iran. Both Sunni and Shia Muslims mourn his death on the Day of Ashura and mark him as a martyr and one of the greatest human losses in the history of Islam.
Al Hussein mosque or the Mosque of al-Imam al-Husayn was created around 1154 and then reconstructed around 1874 which is marked by being one of the holiest Islamic sites in all of Cairo. It also represents the Fatimid architecture in the building, which is seen as one of the finest examples of Fatimid architecture. It is believed the head of Hussein is buried on the incredible grounds of the mosque. In the Fatimid age, the head of Imam Hussein was discovered in 1091 in Palestine which led to the creation of a new mosque and marvelous shrine across the region through the commandments of the Fatimid grand vizier Badr al-Jamali. In the Ayyubid age, the mosque was rebuilt and reconstructed in 1237, and 11 years later, it suffered a fire. The only existing section of the Ayyubid mosque is the great minaret which is found at Bal al Akhdar Gate.
Find out about prominent Islamic landmarks in Egypt, explore Islamic history, and how it influenced Egypt’s culture.
Read MoreThere are many head custodians with their own history which includes many tales and miraculous protection. A great structure over the tomb known as Zarih in recent history was built in Mumbai and then installed in the mosque around 1965, marking the burial site. The Zarih was meant to head to Iraq in the Al Abbas Mosque in Karbala but instead led to the Al Hussein mosque. The mosque suffered from heavy damage from water, but in 1996, it underwent several great restorations, which included the placement of a majestic steel replacement dome. Even in March 2022, a new shrine was built to showcase its enchanting and immortal beauty.
The magnificent architecture of Al Hussein Mosque was built in the Fatimid but over time the mosque underwent great architectural changes. The lower part of the southern portal remains the finest architectural part of the original structure. Around 1237 in the Ayyubid period, a great minaret was placed in the original gateway which displayed intricate and amazing arabesque patterns in Islamic architectural style. Isma’il Pasha around 1874 took part in a magnificent reconstruction project which was highly inspired by the Gothic revival architecture which was able to merge Ottoman and Italian Gothic styles.
It features a number of different Islamic architectural styles and elements which is known as Islamic eclecticism which also reflects the amazing diverse influences of the architectural methods of the Khedival era. During the recent ages, the mosque has been equipped with three massive canopy umbrellas which provide shade and incredible protection from the magnificent elements for all worshippers. The umbrellas are made of Teflon and steel which are mechanically operated and follow the design seen in a number of various Saudi Arabian mosques.
It has a large courtyard, minarets, and a prayer hall that follows a magnificent design of delightful from the Islamic ages. The mosque's façade is decorated with intricate magical Islamic geometric patterns and captivating calligraphy. The interior holds beautiful tile work, carved wooden screens, and a central dome. The Al-Hussein Mosque continues to be a place of worship and visitation for travelers from all over the world who wish to witness its epic allure.
The Al-Hussein Mosque is a historically significant religious and cultural landmark in Cairo, Egypt. It was constructed in the 12th century and has undergone various renovations and additions over time. The mosque is associated with the memory of Al-Hussein ibn Ali, a revered figure in Islam known for his stand against injustice.
So many other mosques and Islamic sites can be visited while being in the capital of Egypt, Cairo. You need at least a whole day to cover the majority of the unique historical, cultural, and religious sites left there to narrate all about the culture and the ancient history of Egypt, so make sure not to miss any of them during your Cairo day trips.
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The phenomenal Al-Hussein Mosque was established around 1154 by the Fatimid Caliphate and has undergone renovations by subsequent dynasties and even the current era. The entire structure has the power to narrate the entire history of Imam Al Hussein.
Al-Hussein Mosque does not contain the tomb of Al-Hussein ibn Ali, but it may have contained his head. It serves as an important religious and cultural center dedicated to his great legacy and memory.
This golden mosque is significant because of its historical, architectural, and cultural importance, its connection to the memory of Al-Hussein ibn Ali, and its architectural beauty, reflecting different Islamic styles over the centuries. It acts as a focal and attractive point for religious and social activities in the heavenly capital city of Cairo.
The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.
If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.
Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.
The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.
You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.
You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.
Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.
The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.
There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.
Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.
The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.
The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.
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