Background

Bab El Nasr: The Gate of Victory

Explore Bab El Nasr, a historic gate in Cairo's old city, showcasing Fatimid architecture and centuries of Egyptian history.

4.5

Bab El Nasr, or the Gate of Victory, is one of the three remaining gates of the historic city wall of Cairo. Constructed in 1087 by Fatimid vizier Badr al-Jamali, it stands as a testament to the city's rich Islamic history and military architecture.

A brief summary to Bab El Nasr

Local tips

  • Explore the nearby Al-Gamaliya Street to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Islamic Cairo.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the neighboring Bab El-Futuh for a comprehensive tour of Cairo's historic gates.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking in the surrounding area.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Khan el-Khalili market, Bab El Nasr is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head north along Al-Gamaliya Street; the gate will be clearly visible ahead.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro station is Bab el Shaaria. From there, it's about a 12-minute walk to Bab El Nasr. Alternatively, you can take a local bus or taxi from the metro station to the gate. A short taxi ride will typically cost around 15-25 EGP.

Unlock the Best of Bab El Nasr

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bab El Nasr

Bab El Nasr, meaning the Gate of Victory, is a significant historical landmark in Cairo, Egypt. As one of the three remaining gates from the Fatimid era, it offers a glimpse into the city's medieval fortifications. Originally built by Fatimid general Jawhar al-Siqilli in 969, the gate was later reconstructed in 1087 by vizier Badr al-Jamali under Caliph al-Mustansir. He initially named it Bab al-'Izz (Gate of Glory), but the name Bab El Nasr persisted. The gate consists of two massive square towers flanking a central arched gateway. The facade is adorned with shields carved in raised relief, symbolizing the protective role of the Fatimid fortifications. These are both circular and pointed in the Byzantine and Norman fashion, decorated with bosses, molded rims and serrated edges. An inscription above the archway includes a Shi'a version of the Shahada, reflecting the Fatimid's religious beliefs. The towers themselves are three stories high, with the lower two levels built of solid masonry. Interestingly, the walls were never challenged by invaders and were cleared in the 20th century. Today, Bab El Nasr stands as a reminder of Cairo's rich history and architectural heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the wonders of the Islamic city.

Popular Experiences near Bab El Nasr

Popular Hotels near Bab El Nasr

Select Currency