Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, Cairo

Name: Mosque of Amr ibn al-As
Address: حسن الأنور، Ad Deyorah, Cairo, Egypt
Telephone: +20 2 23644088

#33 among attractions in Cairo

Mosque, Sacred and religious sites

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Facts and practical information

The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is a monumental piece of Islamic history nestled in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. Established in 642 AD, it holds the distinction of being the first mosque built on the African continent. Named after the Muslim commander Amr ibn al-As, this mosque is not only a spiritual haven but also a testament to Islamic architecture and heritage.

The mosque has undergone numerous renovations and expansions throughout the centuries, transforming it from its original modest size to the sprawling complex that stands today. The current structure reflects a blend of various architectural styles, influenced by the numerous rulers who have left their mark on the building.

The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is characterized by its open courtyard and the iconic minaret that pierces the skyline. The interior is marked by a sense of tranquility and simplicity, with rows of columns leading to the beautifully detailed mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca. The mosque's prayer hall is a vast space, accommodating the faithful in communal worship.

As a cornerstone of Cairo's Fustat area, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also a center for learning, having housed many educational institutions throughout its storied past. It has been a beacon for scholars and students of Islamic sciences and continues to play a role in the religious education of the community.

Visitors to the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As can explore its historical corridors and prayer halls, taking a step back in time to the very beginnings of Islamic Cairo. The site is open to both worshippers and those interested in the cultural and historical aspects of the mosque, providing an insightful glimpse into the rich tapestry of Egypt's Islamic heritage.

Local name: مسجد عمرو بن العاص Completed: 642 (1382 years ago)Architectural style: Islamic architectureCoordinates: 30°0'36"N, 31°13'59"E

Address

حسن الأنور، Ad Deyorahمصر القديمة (msr alqdymt)Cairo Egypt

Contact

+20 2 23644088

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Cairo

Day trips

Mosque of Amr ibn al-As – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Babylon Fortress, Coptic Museum, Hanging Church, Al-Sayeda Nafeesah Mosque.

~1810 ftSW
Forts and castles, Ancient Roman architecture
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~1770 ftSW
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Coptic Museum, Cairo
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~1980 ftSW
Coptic place of worship with icons
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1.4 miNE
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Al-Sayeda Nafeesah Mosque, Cairo
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~1590 ftSW
Church, Historical place
Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, Cairo
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1.2 miN
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~1830 ftSW
Ornate temple with historic significance
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9 min walk • The Ben Ezra Synagogue, sometimes referred to as the El-Geniza Synagogue or the Synagogue of the Levantines, is situated in the Fustat part of Old Cairo, Egypt. According to local folklore, it is located on the site where baby Moses was found.
1.4 miSW
29°59'51"N • 31°12'54"E
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0.6 miSW
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0.5 miW
Museum
Umm Kulthum Museum, Cairo
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0.8 miN
Aqueduct
Cairo Citadel Aqueduct, Cairo
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to Mosque of Amr ibn al-As?

Nearby attractions include Souk Fustat, Cairo (4 min walk), Church of Saint Menas, Cairo (7 min walk), Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, Cairo (8 min walk), Genizah, Cairo (9 min walk).

How to get to Mosque of Amr ibn al-As by public transport?

The nearest stations to Mosque of Amr ibn al-As:

Bus

Amr Ibn Al-Aas (2 min walk)

Metro

Mar Girgis • Lines: 1 (10 min walk)
Al-Malek Al-Saleh • Lines: 1 (13 min walk)