Zeinab Khatoon, Cairo Travel Guide

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Discover the enchanting Zeinab Khatoon House in Cairo: a historic Mamluk house with stunning architecture and a tranquil courtyard cafe.

Explore the historic Zeinab Khatoon House, a beautifully preserved Mamluk-era house in Cairo's Al-Darb Al-Ahmar district, offering a glimpse into traditional Islamic architecture and a tranquil escape in its courtyard cafe. Once a refuge for wounded fighters, it now stands as a cultural center.

A brief summary to Zeinab Khatoon

27V7+WCF, Mohammed Abdou, Al-Darb Al-Ahmar, El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, EG

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Zeinab Khatoon.

Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Take time to sit in the cafe and soak up the historical ambiance while enjoying tea or coffee.
Explore the surrounding area for local vendors selling traditional crafts and delicious street food.
Consider learning about Zeinab Khatoon's significance before visiting for enhanced appreciation.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo

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Old historic mosque

Bab al-Futuh

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Explore Zeinab Khatoon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Zeinab Khatoon, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Al-Azhar Mosque, head southeast on Al-Azhar Street towards Al-Hussein Street. Continue straight for about 500 meters until you reach the intersection with Mohammed Abdou Street. Turn left onto Mohammed Abdou Street, and walk straight for approximately 300 meters. Zeinab Khatoon will be on your right, at the address 27V7+WCF.
Public Transport

To reach Zeinab Khatoon House via public transport, take the Cairo Metro to the Ataba station. From Ataba, you can either walk (approximately 20-30 minutes) or take a short taxi ride to Mohammed Abdou Street in El-Darb El-Ahmar. Look for the house at 27V7+WCF. A metro ticket costs around 8-20 EGP depending on the number of stations. A short taxi ride from Ataba to Zeinab Khatoon House should cost approximately 15-30 EGP.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing Services

Utilize ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for a direct route to Zeinab Khatoon House. Input 'Zeinab Khatoon' or the coordinates (30.0448221, 31.2635606) as your destination. The fare from areas in Islamic Cairo typically ranges from 25 to 50 EGP, depending on the distance and traffic.

Discover more about Zeinab Khatoon

Nestled in the heart of Old Cairo's Al-Darb Al-Ahmar district, the Zeinab Khatoon House, also known as Beit Zeinab Khatoon, is a captivating historical site that offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Dating back to 1486, this ancient house showcases exquisite Mamluk and Ottoman architectural styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Egypt. Built initially by Princess Shaqra Hanim, it later became home to Zeinab Khatoon, a woman of noble standing.Stepping inside is like stepping back in time. The house features a traditional courtyard, designed to allow light and air to circulate, creating a peaceful ambiance. The intricate details of the architecture, including the 'broken entrance' which prevents outsiders from seeing directly into the house, are testaments to the craftsmanship of the era. The house also played a significant role during the French campaign against Egypt, serving as a refuge and hospital for wounded Egyptian resistance fighters. Some even died within its walls and were secretly buried in a basement known as the 'Basement of Death'.Today, the Zeinab Khatoon House is a protected heritage site and cultural center. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, admire the traditional Islamic design, and relax in the courtyard cafe, enjoying tea, coffee, and even a hookah in an Arabian Nights atmosphere. The house is also a popular location for filming movies and TV series, adding to its allure. A visit here provides an immersive experience into Cairo's history and culture.