10 Things to Do in the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As (Cairo, Egypt)
10 Things to Do in the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As (Cairo, Egypt)
The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As in Cairo, Egypt is one of the oldest and most historically significant mosques in the world. Built in 642 AD by the first Muslim conqueror of Egypt, Amr ibn al-As, the mosque served as the first ever Islamic center of worship in all of Africa. Today, the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is a popular tourist attraction in Cairo, drawing visitors from all over the world who are interested in learning more about the history of Islam in Egypt. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As.
1. Explore the Courtyard: The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As features a large, open courtyard that is perfect for exploring. Here, visitors can find a variety of interesting features, such as a fountain, a small garden, and a few ancient columns.
2. Check out the Minaret: The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is home to a beautiful minaret, which was originally built in the 8th century. The minaret is a great place to take pictures and admire the architecture of the mosque.
3. Visit the Mihrab: The mihrab is an important feature of any mosque, and the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is no exception. The mihrab here is particularly impressive, and is decorated with intricate designs and colorful tiles.
4. Admire the Dome: The dome of the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is one of the most impressive features of the mosque. The dome is made of wood and is decorated with intricate patterns and colorful tiles.
5. Take in the History: The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is a great place to learn about the history of Islam in Egypt. The mosque is home to a variety of artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, coins, and pottery.
6. Visit the Library: The mosque is home to a library that contains a variety of books and manuscripts about the history of Islam in Egypt. Visitors can browse the library and learn more about the religion and its history.
7. Attend a Service: The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is still an active place of worship today and visitors are welcome to attend a service. This is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of Islam in Egypt.
8. Explore the Surrounding Area: The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is located in the heart of Cairo, and the surrounding area is full of interesting sights and attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby markets, restaurants, and historical sites.
9. Take a Tour: There are a variety of tours available at the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, including guided tours and audio tours. These tours are a great way to learn more about the history of the mosque and the religion of Islam.
10. Enjoy the Views: The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is located in a beautiful area of Cairo, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding desert. This is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
Visiting the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is a great way to experience the rich history and culture of Islam in Egypt. From exploring the courtyard to admiring the architecture, there are plenty of things to do when visiting the mosque. Whether you’re interested in learning more about the religion or simply want to take in the views, the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.