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Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub: A Glimpse into Ayyubid Cairo

Explore the historic Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub in Cairo, a unique example of Ayyubid architecture and Islamic learning.

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The Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub is a historic complex in Cairo, dating back to the Ayyubid dynasty in the 13th century. Founded by Sultan al-Salih Ayyub in 1242 and later added to by his wife Shajar al-Durr, it stands as a significant center of Islamic learning and a unique example of Ayyubid architecture. Located on Al-Muizz Street, it offers visitors a glimpse into Cairo's rich history.

A brief summary to Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub

  • 27X6+JGR, Al Moez Ldin Allah Al Fatmi, El Gamaliya, El-Gamaleya, Cairo Governorate, EG
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Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Dress respectfully, as this is a religious site. Cover shoulders and knees.
  • Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Khan el-Khalili bazaar for a complete cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Madrasa and Mausoleum are located on Al-Muizz Street in the El Gamaliya district. From anywhere on Al-Muizz Street, simply walk along the street until you reach the complex. Look for the distinctive minaret above the entrance. It's located across from the Complex of Sultan Qalawun. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving via the Cairo Metro, take Line 3 to Bab El Shaaria station. From there, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to Al-Muizz Street and the Madrasa. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near Ramsis Station in the city center, from which you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the location. Bus and minibus prices range from 2 to 5 EGP. A metro ticket costs 2 EGP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Cairo. Simply ask your driver to take you to Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub on Al-Muizz Street in El Gamaliya. Taxi fares vary depending on the distance and traffic, but a short trip within central Cairo typically ranges from 30 to 50 EGP. Ensure the meter is used or negotiate the fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub

The Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub, also known as Madrasa Al-Salihiyya, is a remarkable historical complex located on Al-Muizz Street in Cairo. Constructed in 1242 by Sultan Al-Salih Najm Al-Din Ayyub of the Ayyubid dynasty, the complex was later expanded with the addition of the Sultan's mausoleum by his wife, Shajar al-Durr, in 1249. This madrasa holds the distinction of being the first in Cairo to teach all four schools of Sunni Islamic law. The complex is made up of two buildings divided by a public passageway. The architectural design, particularly the iwans (open vaulted halls used for teaching), draws inspiration from Persian architecture. The minaret, positioned above the entrance, is a unique feature, as it was the first to be built for a non-Friday mosque. The minaret has two shafts, a rectangular lower shaft and an octagonal upper shaft, adorned with keel-arched panels and a dome on top. Shajar al-Durr added the mausoleum after al-Salih Ayyub's death. This established a tradition of burying the founder within the religious institution they established. The mausoleum features a mihrab (prayer niche) with marble lining and a wooden cenotaph. The Madrasa of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub occupies a portion of the Great Fatimid Palace site, also home to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar. Today, the madrasa's minaret and parts of the central facade are visible from the street.

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