Mausoleum of Al-Ghouri

Descending from Sharia al-Azhar, on the opposite side of the Khan al-Khalili market, one encounters the resplendent Mausoleum of Al-Ghouri, a harmonious amalgamation of two architectural marvels commissioned by the penultimate sultan, Qansuh al-Ghouri, who held the reins of power for an impressive 16-year tenure.

Al-Ghouri’s life was marked by both grandeur and tragedy. He met his demise through a gruesome decapitation, captured after leading his valiant army into the fateful Battle of Marj Dabiq. It was a cruel twist of fate, as his capture was orchestrated by one of his own emirs, a treacherous betrayal that sealed his tragic fate. He was 78 years old at the time of this ill-fated incident, and to this day, his mortal remains remain shrouded in mystery, lost to the annals of history.

However, within the hallowed confines of this mausoleum, we encounter not only the memory of Al-Ghouri but also that of the last Sheikh, who met an equally tragic end at the gallows of Bab Zuweila when the Ottoman Turks assumed control of this vibrant city in the year 1517.

Each Sunday night at the stroke of 9 pm, the Mausoleum of Al-Ghouri comes alive with the melodious strains of Sufi chanting, a distinct departure from the Sufi dancing witnessed at the Wikala of Al-Ghouri. Alternatively, the rhythmic beats of Nubian drumming reverberate through these sacred halls, offering visitors a mesmerizing glimpse into the musical traditions that have graced this timeless edifice for generations. It is a testament to Egypt’s rich cultural tapestry, where history, tragedy, and artistry converge, ensuring that the Mausoleum of Al-Ghouri remains a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Egyptian experience.