Background

Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i: A Spiritual and Architectural Landmark

Explore the Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i, a hallmark of Ayyubid architecture and a tribute to Islamic scholarship in Cairo's City of the Dead.

4.7

The Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i in Cairo's City of the Dead is a stunning example of Ayyubid architecture, honoring Imam al-Shafi'i, founder of the Shafi'i school of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence. Its towering wooden dome, intricate carvings, and serene atmosphere offer a glimpse into Egypt's rich Islamic heritage.

A brief summary to Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

  • 2765+P6H, El Khalifa, Al Abageyah, Cairo Governorate, EG
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the mausoleum's history and significance.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby Islamic landmarks in the City of the Dead.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in Islamic Cairo, find the nearest bus stop and take a local bus towards Al Abageyah or El Khalifa. Ask the driver or passengers to alert you when you reach the stop for the Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i. Buses are very affordable, costing around 5 EGP. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the mausoleum.

  • Taxi

    Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem offer a direct route to the Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i. Input 'Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i' or the address '2765+P6H, Al Abageyah, El Khalifa' into the app. The fare varies depending on your starting point, but expect to pay around 20-50 EGP. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to walk long distances or use public transportation.

  • Walking

    If you are near Al Azhar Mosque or Khan el-Khalili, walk southeast towards the intersection of Al-Azhar Street and Al-Mu'izz Li-Din Allah Street. Continue on Al-Mu'izz Li-Din Allah Street until you reach the El Khalifa neighborhood. Look for signs directing you to the Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i. The mausoleum is approximately a 15-20 minute walk, depending on your starting point.

Unlock the Best of Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

Located in Cairo's historic City of the Dead, the Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i is a significant religious and architectural landmark. It honors Imam Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi'i, a renowned scholar and founder of the Shafi'i school of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence. Al-Shafi'i arrived in Cairo in 813 and taught at the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As until his death in 819, after which he was buried in the City of the Dead. The mausoleum stands as a testament to Ayyubid architectural style. Originally, Sultan Salah ad-Din (Saladin) ordered the construction of a tomb for al-Shafi'i in 1176, with a wooden cenotaph completed in 1178. The current structure is largely attributed to Ayyubid Sultan al-Kamil in 1211, who rebuilt the shrine, replacing a smaller Fatimid structure. Later, Mamluk Sultan Qaitbay added muqarnas and marble decorations in 1480. Further restorations were undertaken by Mamluk Sultan al-Ghuri and Ottoman governor Ali Bey al-Kabir. The mausoleum features a 15-meter square stone base supporting a wooden dome covered with lead. The dome is topped with a copper boat, an architectural feature from the Fatimid dynasty, said to hold birdseed. Inside, the cenotaph, crafted by Ubayd al-Najjar, displays inscriptions in Kufic and Naskhi scripts, including Qur'anic verses and accounts of al-Shafi'i's life. The interior also features a wooden frieze and beams, remnants of the Ayyubid era. The wooden dome is considered one of the largest in Cairo. Visiting this site offers a unique glimpse into Cairo's rich history and architectural heritage.

Popular Experiences near Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

Popular Hotels near Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

Select Currency