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Sidi Bishr Mosque: A Spiritual Landmark in Alexandria

Discover the spiritual haven of Sidi Bishr Mosque in Alexandria, a testament to Islamic heritage and architectural beauty.

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Sidi Bishr Mosque, located in the Sidi Bishr neighborhood of Alexandria, is a significant religious site named after Sheikh Bishr al-Gawhari, a revered Islamic scholar who lived in the area during the 11th-12th century. The mosque has been expanded and renovated over the centuries, reflecting a blend of architectural styles and serving as a focal point for the local community.

A brief summary to Sidi Bishr Mosque

  • 149 شارع خالد بن الوليد، سيدي بشر بحري، قسم ثان المنتزة،, Montaza 1, Sidi Beshr Bahri, Alexandria Governorate, EG
  • +201224034285

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the mosque, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.
  • Visit during non-prayer times to better appreciate the mosque's architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Explore the surrounding Sidi Bishr neighborhood for a taste of local Alexandrian life.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Alexandria, take a local bus or tram heading east towards Sidi Bishr. The mosque is a well-known landmark and easily accessible from the Sidi Bishr bus/tram stop. A short ride on the tram costs approximately 0.25 EGP. Bus fares are similarly inexpensive.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Alexandria. Simply ask for 'Sidi Bishr Mosque'. Agree on a fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from areas like Montaza or San Stefano should cost around 15-30 EGP, depending on traffic and your negotiation skills.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Sidi Bishr neighborhood, the mosque is easily reachable on foot. It is located on شارع خالد بن الوليد (Khaled Ibn Al Waleed Street), a main thoroughfare. Look for the distinctive architecture and minaret.

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Discover more about Sidi Bishr Mosque

Sidi Bishr Mosque is a prominent mosque in Alexandria, Egypt, holding deep religious and historical significance. Named in honor of Sheikh Bishr bin Al-Hussein bin Muhammad bin Obaid Allah bin Al-Hussein bin Bishr Al-Jawhari, a Sufi scholar who came from North Africa/Andalusia in the 11th-12th century, the mosque has evolved into a spiritual haven and a testament to Alexandria's rich Islamic heritage. Sheikh Bishr al-Gawhari was known for his ascetic lifestyle and profound knowledge, attracting followers and earning respect within the community. He lived in seclusion on the seashore, and the area eventually became known by his name. His tomb became a revered shrine, leading to the construction of a mosque. The mosque's architecture features a rectangular courtyard surrounded by porticoes and an iwan with octagonal columns and pointed arches. The oldest part of the mosque, dating back to the 19th century, is a shrine with a square-shaped room surmounted by a dome. The mosque has undergone several renovations, including a significant expansion in 1945 during the reign of Khedive Abbas II, which quadrupled its size. In 1947, a spacious square and garden were added in front of the mosque, enhancing the surrounding neighborhood. In 2000, the facades were renovated, and the square was developed, showcasing a spirit of tolerance and national unity. Today, Sidi Bishr Mosque stands as a spiritual center for the community, attracting visitors who seek to explore its sacred traditions and architectural beauty. It serves as a reminder of Alexandria's cosmopolitan nature and its long history as a melting pot of cultures and ideas.

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