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Museum of Islamic Art: A Timeless Cairo Treasure

Explore a vast collection of Islamic art & artifacts at Cairo's Museum of Islamic Art, showcasing centuries of cultural heritage and artistic brilliance.

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The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo, one of the world's largest dedicated to Islamic art, showcases a vast collection spanning from the 7th to the 19th centuries. Explore artifacts from Egypt, North Africa, Andalusia, the Arabian Peninsula, and Iran, representing diverse Islamic dynasties and artistic achievements.

A brief summary to Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo

Local tips

  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for local culture.
  • Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash to protect the artifacts.
  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Museum of Islamic Art is accessible via the Cairo Metro. The closest stations are Mohamed Naguib (approximately 850m away) and Attaba (around 1800m away). From either station, you can take a taxi or walk to the museum. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near the museum on Port Said Street. Bus tickets cost approximately 9 EGP for a regular bus and 17 EGP for an air-conditioned bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a convenient way to reach the Museum of Islamic Art. Tell the driver you want to go to 'Mathaf al-Fann al-Islami' in Bab el-Khalq. Taxi fares in Cairo start at 8.5 EGP, with each additional kilometer costing 4 EGP. A short taxi ride from downtown Cairo should cost between 20-40 EGP, depending on traffic.

  • Car

    If driving, be aware that the Museum of Islamic Art is located within Cairo's Congestion Charging Zone, and parking in the area is very limited. The nearest car park is located on Port Said Street, in front of the museum. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around 10-20 EGP per hour.

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Discover more about Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo

Located in the heart of historic Cairo, the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) stands as a testament to the rich and diverse artistic heritage of the Islamic world. Established in 1881 and inaugurated in 1903, the museum boasts one of the most extensive collections of Islamic artifacts globally, with over 100,000 items. The museum's collection spans a remarkable period, from the 7th-century Umayyad dynasty to the 19th-century Ottoman Empire. Visitors can explore a wide array of art forms, including intricate ceramics, delicate textiles, detailed metalwork, and beautifully preserved manuscripts. The artifacts originate from various regions, including Egypt, North Africa, Andalusia, the Arabian Peninsula, Iran, and Turkey, reflecting the interconnectedness of the Islamic world throughout history. The MIA's exhibits are organized chronologically and thematically, guiding visitors through different periods and regions of the Islamic world. The right wing showcases artifacts from the Umayyad, Abbasid, Fatimid, Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods, while the left wing features thematic sections dedicated to science, astronomy, calligraphy, coins, stones, and textiles. Highlights include a Mamluk key to the Ka'ba in Mecca, a textile bearing the oldest Kufic inscription, and a collection of enameled and gilded Mamluk mosque lamps. Following a terrorist attack in 2014 that damaged the facade, the museum underwent extensive restoration and reopened in 2017 with a revised display layout. The redesigned museum incorporates natural light to enhance the visitor experience and offers a comprehensive overview of Islamic art and culture.

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