Prince Taz Palace: A Mamluk Marvel
Explore Cairo's Mamluk history at Prince Taz Palace: a stunning architectural gem and cultural hub in the heart of Old Cairo.
Nestled in the historic heart of Cairo in the Al-Darb Al-Ahmar district, Prince Taz Palace offers a captivating journey into Egypt's Mamluk era. Constructed in 1352 AD by Prince Saif al-Din Taz, the palace was built to celebrate his marriage to Sultan al-Nasir Mohammad's daughter. Spanning over 8,000 square meters, this architectural masterpiece is one of the finest and largest examples of Bahari Mamluk palace design. Prince Taz, a prominent figure in the Mamluk dynasty, served as the cupbearer to the Sultan, a position of considerable influence. The palace's strategic location near the Cairo Citadel, the center of power at the time, underscores its historical significance. Over the centuries, the palace has served various purposes, including a residence for Ottoman nobles, a girls' school, and even a warehouse for the Ministry of Education. The palace's architecture is a blend of Islamic and Mamluk styles, featuring intricate geometric and plant motifs, Persian calligraphy, and an octagonal hall with a high stucco-worked ceiling. The main entrance on Al-Suyufiya Street welcomes visitors with its stalactite forms and secondary arches. Inside, the palace boasts a large courtyard, decorated halls, and a 'maq'ad' (seat) overlooking the inner courtyard. The 'Haramlek', the women's quarters, is an enormous hall that reflects the grandeur of the palace. Traditional bathrooms with temperature-controlled rooms further illustrate the sophisticated lifestyle of the palace's inhabitants. Today, Prince Taz Palace has been restored and transformed into a cultural hub, hosting concerts, artistic events, and workshops. Visitors can explore the palace's rich history and admire its architectural details, gaining insight into the daily life and artistic achievements of the Mamluk era.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience.
- Check for upcoming cultural events or performances at the palace for a unique experience.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in the Al-Darb Al-Ahmar district.
A brief summary to Prince Taz Palace
- 27J3+WFM, Haret Al Syoufeya, El Khalifa, El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, 4292001, EG
Getting There
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Walking
From Bab Zuweila, a historic gate in Islamic Cairo, head south along Al-Darb Al-Ahmar street. Continue for approximately 10-15 minutes until you reach Al-Suyufiya Street. The Prince Taz Palace will be on your right. This walk allows you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Al-Darb Al-Ahmar district.
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Public Transport
Take the Cairo Metro to Bab El Shaaria station. From there, take a local minibus or taxi towards Al-Darb Al-Ahmar. Ask the driver to drop you off near Prince Taz Palace on Al-Suyufiya Street. The metro fare is typically around 5 EGP, and the minibus/taxi fare should be around 10-20 EGP.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem to get directly to Prince Taz Palace. Set your destination as 'Prince Taz Palace' or the address 'Al-Suyufiya Street, Al-Khalifa, Cairo'. A short trip from downtown Cairo should cost approximately 25-40 EGP, depending on traffic.
