Mosque of Amr ibn al-As

The Amr ibn al-As Mosque is a historic Islamic religious building in Cairo, Egypt. It holds significance as one of the oldest mosques in Africa, originally founded in the 7th century following the Muslim conquest of Egypt. The structure has undergone numerous reconstructions and modifications over centuries, with little of the original fabric surviving. It remains an active place of worship and a site of considerable historical importance. Visitors should approach with appropriate respect for its continuing religious function and cultural sensitivity. Daily 09:00–16:00, including Ramadan. No weekly closure day is listed. Last entry is at 15:00, one hour before closing.

The mosque complex contains prayer halls, courtyards, and architectural elements reflecting various periods of reconstruction. Notable features include columns and capitals reused from earlier structures, a common practice in early Islamic architecture. The layout follows traditional mosque design with open courtyard and covered prayer spaces. Minarets have been added at different historical phases. The interior spaces serve the local Muslim community for daily prayers and religious observances. No weekly closure day is listed. Last entry is at 15:00, one hour before closing. Free general admission; the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities tariff marks every Egyptian and foreign adult/student price field with a dash.

A respectful visit typically requires thirty to sixty minutes, depending on individual interest in architectural observation and historical contemplation. The duration may be shorter if prayer is in progress, when non-Muslim visitors may need to wait outside or observe from designated areas. Those with deep interest in Islamic architectural history might spend additional time examining structural details and the evolution of building phases. There are no recorded guided tour durations or audio programs. Free general admission; the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities tariff marks every Egyptian and foreign adult/student price field with a dash.

The mosque functions as an active religious site with five daily prayers, including dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening prayers. Friday noon prayer draws the largest congregations. Non-Muslim visitors may find access restricted or limited during prayer times and particularly during Friday services and Ramadan. Daily 09:00–16:00, including Ramadan. Use Cairo Metro Line 1 and alight at Mar Girgis station, which Cairo Governorate identifies as serving Coptic Cairo and the Religious Complex. The mosque is on Hassan al-Anwar Street in Old Cairo. The documented visitor entrance is the monumental main entrance on the mosque’s western side.

Many historic mosques in Cairo traditionally do not charge entry fees for Muslim worshippers. Non-Muslim visitors to certain religious sites in Egypt may encounter variable fee structures or voluntary donation requests. Photography permits, if required, sometimes involve separate arrangements. No advance booking systems are documented for this site. Free general admission; the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities tariff marks every Egyptian and foreign adult/student price field with a dash. The documented visitor entrance is the monumental main entrance on the mosque’s western side. The responsible authority provides no designated step-free entrance, ramp, lift, or adapted-toilet information for this historic site.

The mosque is located in the area of Old Cairo, near the site of the historic Roman fortress of Babylon. It is accessible within the broader Historic Cairo district, which contains numerous other significant monuments. No dedicated parking facilities are recorded. Use Cairo Metro Line 1 and alight at Mar Girgis station, which Cairo Governorate identifies as serving Coptic Cairo and the Religious Complex. The mosque is on Hassan al-Anwar Street in Old Cairo. The responsible authority provides no designated step-free entrance, ramp, lift, or adapted-toilet information for this historic site.

Visitors must dress modestly with covered shoulders and legs; women should cover hair as customary in active mosques. Shoes must be removed before entering prayer areas. Behavior should remain quiet and respectful at all times, with no eating, drinking, or smoking. Photography of worshippers requires explicit permission and is generally discouraged. Solo female travelers should exercise standard caution. The documented visitor entrance is the monumental main entrance on the mosque’s western side. Amr ibn al-As founded it in 21 AH/641 CE. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities identifies it as the first mosque built in Egypt and Africa.

Photography policies are not formally recorded and may be subject to on-site discretion. Interior photography of worshippers during prayer is inappropriate and potentially offensive. Flash photography should be avoided due to potential disturbance and conservation concerns. Tripods and professional equipment may attract scrutiny or prohibition. Visitors should observe posted signs, comply with verbal directions from mosque personnel, and when uncertain, refrain from photographing rather than risk causing offense. Respect for the sanctity of the space supersedes documentation desires. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities identifies it as the first mosque built in Egypt and Africa.