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Bab al-Futuh: Cairo's Gate of Conquest

Explore Bab al-Futuh, a majestic Fatimid-era gate in Cairo, showcasing Islamic military architecture and a glimpse into the city's rich history.

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Bab al-Futuh, or the 'Gate of Conquest,' is one of the three remaining gates of the old city walls of Cairo, Egypt. Built in 1087 during the Fatimid era, it stands as a remarkable example of Islamic military architecture. The gate offers a glimpse into Cairo's rich history and architectural prowess.

A brief summary to Bab al-Futuh

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces around the gate and Al-Muizz Street.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience, as Cairo summers can be very hot.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Al-Hakim Mosque and Khan el-Khalili market for a full day of exploration.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like Al-Muizz Street and Khan el-Khalili.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of Bab al-Futuh and the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Al-Hakim Mosque, walk south along Al-Muizz Street. Bab al-Futuh will be directly ahead, forming the northern boundary of the old city. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. There are no costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Ramses Station, take a microbus or bus heading towards Al-Azhar or Al-Hussein. Ask the driver to drop you off near Bab al-Futuh. The ride typically costs around 5-10 EGP, and the walk to the gate is a few minutes. Be prepared for crowded conditions.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Cairo, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Careem) to Bab al-Futuh will cost approximately 25-40 EGP, depending on traffic and distance. Specify 'Bab al-Futuh' or 'Al-Muizz Street' as your destination. Be aware that traffic can be heavy in this area.

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Discover more about Bab al-Futuh

Bab al-Futuh, meaning 'Gate of Conquest' in Arabic, is a historic gateway in Cairo, Egypt, dating back to the Fatimid era. Constructed in 1087 by Vizier Badr al-Jamali during the reign of Caliph al-Mustansir Billah, it served as a vital entrance to the old city. It is located at the northern end of Al-Muizz Street. Originally named Bab al-Iqbal, or 'Gate of Prosperity', the gate was renamed Bab al-Futuh, retaining the name of an older gate. Bab al-Futuh, along with Bab al-Nasr and Bab Zuwayla, are rare examples of pre-Crusades military architecture in the Islamic world. The gate's design features two massive rounded towers flanking the entrance, which were stronger for defense than square towers. Defensive chambers with arrow slits and shafts for pouring boiling water or oil on attackers were incorporated into the towers. Visitors can admire the detailed carvings and stonework that adorn the structure. The gate is 22 meters (72 ft) tall and 23 meters (75 ft) wide. A stone-carved molding with looped lines runs along the upper façade, a decorative feature that became common in Mamluk architecture. Inside, the vestibule is covered by a shallow semi-spherical dome. Today, Bab al-Futuh stands as a testament to Cairo's past and a reminder of its historical significance.

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