Al Emam El Hussein Mosque, Cairo Travel Guide

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Visit Al-Hussein Mosque in Cairo, a holy Islamic site with stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.

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Al Emam El Hussein Mosque

Al-Hussein Mosque, a revered Islamic site in Cairo, is believed to house the head of Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Hussein ibn Ali. Built in 1154 AD, it stands as a beacon of faith and architectural beauty in the heart of Islamic Cairo.

A brief summary to Al Emam El Hussein Mosque

بجوار خان الخليلي، حسين حجازي, El Gamaliya, حي, Cairo Governorate, EG

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Al Emam El Hussein Mosque.

Dress modestly when visiting the mosque, covering shoulders and knees. Women may be required to cover their heads.
Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall. Shoe racks are usually available near the entrance.
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside the mosque as it is a place of prayer and worship.
Visit during the day, as the mosque is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.
Explore the surrounding area, including the Khan el-Khalili bazaar and Al-Azhar University.

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Explore Al Emam El Hussein Mosque on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Al Emam El Hussein Mosque, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Khan el-Khalili bazaar, the Al-Hussein Mosque is easily accessible on foot. Navigate through the bustling market streets, heading towards the Al-Azhar Mosque. The Al-Hussein Mosque is located nearby, in the Al-Hussain area. The walk is short and allows you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Islamic Cairo. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

To reach the Al-Hussein Mosque via public transport, take the Cairo Metro to the Ataba station. From there, you can either walk for about 20 minutes or take a short taxi ride to the mosque. The metro ticket costs approximately 5-10 EGP, depending on the number of stations. A short taxi ride from Ataba to the mosque should cost around 10-20 EGP.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Cairo. Simply hail a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Careem to get to the Al-Hussein Mosque. The fare will depend on your starting point and traffic conditions. From downtown Cairo, a taxi ride to the mosque should cost approximately 20-40 EGP. Be sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Al Emam El Hussein Mosque

The Al-Hussein Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Imam Al-Hussein, is a significant Islamic site located in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Egypt. It is considered one of the holiest sites in Egypt and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The mosque was built in 1154 AD by the Fatimid caliph Al-Zafir, on the site where it is believed that the head of Imam Hussein (Raas al Imam al Husain), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was buried. According to the Islamic tradition, Imam Hussein was beheaded in Karbala, Iraq, in the year 680 AD, and his head was taken to Egypt.Over the years, the mosque underwent several renovations and expansions under different Islamic dynasties, including the Ayyubids, the Mamluks, and the Ottomans. The mosque's architecture showcases a blend of styles, from Fatimid to Gothic Revival, reflecting the various periods of its history. Non-Muslim tourists are welcome to visit the mosque. Located in Cairo, it is situated close to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, in the heart of Islamic Cairo.The mosque complex includes several other buildings, including the mausoleum of Imam Al-Hussein and the mosque's library, which houses a large collection of Islamic manuscripts and rare books, including the oldest complete manuscript of the Quran. The mosque has also been the site of several historical events, including the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, when it served as a shelter for protestors during clashes with security forces. The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a center for learning and spiritual enlightenment. It houses a library that is home to a vast collection of Islamic manuscripts and books. This library serves as a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in exploring the rich intellectual heritage of Islam.