Egypt: Don't Miss the Mosque of Sultan al-Nasir Hidden in the Saladin Citadel

After entering the Saladin Citadel area, you will first see the Mosque of Sultan Al-Nasir on the way to the Citadel. I was curious to go in and see what it was like, and I didn't expect to come across such a beautiful building. Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad was the son of Sultan Qalawun and ruled Egypt for nearly half a century (1293–1341, reigning three times). He was the most famous and longest-reigning ruler of the Mamluk dynasty. This mosque was built in 1335, making it older than the famous Muhammad Ali Mosque on the adjacent Citadel. In addition to being a place of worship, it was also used for the Sultan's public speeches and political gatherings, reflecting the social function of mosques at that time. Like the Qalawun Complex, it is a representative building of the Mamluk dynasty. We recommend paying attention to the following details: 1. The alternating red and black stone masonry is a typical decorative art of the Mamluk period. 2. The central open-air courtyard is surrounded by arcades, and the column capitals are carved with a fusion of Crusader and Arab elements. The carved honeycomb ceiling is beautiful. 3. The prayer hall has a simple vault design, and the wooden pulpit and niches from the Mamluk period are well preserved. 4. The two spiral minarets are a prominent feature. Influenced by the Persian style, the surface is covered with turquoise glazed tiles, which are rare in Cairo mosques. 5. Sitting in the atrium, you can see the glittering roof and minarets of the Muhammad Ali Mosque next to it. Note: 1. Dress code Men should avoid wearing shorts, vests, and other overly revealing clothing. Women need to cover their hair, and their clothing should cover their shoulders and knees. Long skirts or trousers are preferred. 2. You must be barefoot or wear socks in the mosque. There are shoe racks next to the entrance. 3. Keep quiet and avoid loud noises or laughter. As soon as I entered, the guard asked me where I was from and whether I was a Muslim. When he heard that I was not a Muslim, he praised my dress as very Muslim, gave me a thumbs up, and welcomed me to visit. There are few people here, and it is quiet and peaceful. There are not many tourists, and even the cats are so lazy. It is really suitable to stay quietly and appreciate the details of this 700-year-old building. Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad also built the famous Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan during the same period. If you pass by, you can go and see it. It is another masterpiece of Mamluk architecture in Cairo.