Al-Aqmar Mosque: A Moonlight Gem

The Al-Aqmar Mosque, situated on Cairo's historic Al-Muizz Street, stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of the Fatimid Caliphate. Constructed in 1125 AD by Vizier al-Ma'mun al-Bata'ihi under Caliph al-Amir, this 'Moonlight Mosque' is celebrated for its unique design and intricate details. One of the mosque's most distinctive features is its offset façade, an innovative design that aligns the building with the street while maintaining the interior's orientation towards Mecca. This architectural ingenuity is complemented by the façade's elaborate stone carvings, geometric patterns, and Kufic inscriptions, making it one of the oldest surviving stone facades in Egypt. The repetition of the phrase “Muhammad and Ali” in the carvings highlights the mosque's historical and religious significance. The mosque's interior features an open courtyard surrounded by arcades, each topped with shallow brick domes. While the interior has undergone several restorations throughout the centuries, including significant work in 1393/1397 and 1993, it still retains much of its original Fatimid charm. The Dawoodi Bohras' renovation in 1993, however, has faced criticism for sacrificing some historical elements. Located on the northern end of Al-Muizz Street in Old Cairo, the Al-Aqmar Mosque is easily accessible and surrounded by other historical sites such as Al-Azhar Mosque and Al-Hakim Mosque. A visit to this remarkable monument offers a glimpse into Cairo's rich Islamic heritage and the architectural brilliance of the Fatimid era.