Mosque & Madrassa of Umm Sultan Sha’aban

Nestled within Cairo’s vibrant streets, the Mosque-Madrassa of Umm Sultan Sha’aban stands as an architectural jewel, embodying the essence of Mamluk design. Constructed in 1369, its facade presents a striking visual narrative with red and white stripes, a signature of Mamluk aesthetics. This mosque-madrassa is particularly famed for its entrance, where an array of muqarnas vaulting is skillfully arranged in a unique triangular pattern. This uncustomary yet mesmerizing design element sets it apart, showcasing the innovative spirit of Mamluk architecture.

The edifice is thoughtfully oriented towards Mecca, a physical manifestation of its intrinsic connection to Islamic faith and traditions. Its inception was an act of piety and commemoration by Khawand Baraka, the mother of the Mamluk Sultan reigning at the time. She commissioned this splendid structure following her return from the hajj pilgrimage, infusing the building with a deep spiritual resonance.

More than a place for worship and education, the Mosque-Madrassa of Umm Sultan Sha’aban symbolizes a confluence of devotion and architectural magnificence. Its walls and arches are not just constructs of brick and mortar; they are the bearers of religious significance and a celebration of Islamic art and culture.

Today, this mosque-madrassa remains a proud testament to Cairo’s rich cultural and spiritual lineage. It beckons visitors from near and far to delve into the depths of its historical and architectural wonders. Each corner of the structure tells a story, each detail a whisper from the past, inviting explorers to step back in time and experience the glory of the Mamluk era.

In the ever-evolving cityscape of Cairo, the Mosque-Madrassa of Umm Sultan Sha’aban stands resilient, a guardian of history and a beacon of enduring beauty. It is not merely a relic of the past; it is a living testament to the enduring legacy of a civilization that has left an indelible mark on the world’s cultural heritage.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Cairo’s illustrious past with our “Cairo Grand Islamic Tour.” This meticulously curated experience is your gateway to exploring the architectural marvel and spiritual beacon that is the Mosque-Madrassa of Umm Sultan Sha’aban, along with other iconic Islamic landmarks of the city. Delve deep into the heart of Mamluk grandeur, where the striking red and white stripes of the mosque’s facade and the unique triangular arrangement of muqarnas vaulting await to tell their age-old tales.

As you traverse the vibrant streets of Cairo, our tour promises not just a visit, but an immersive voyage into the depths of Islamic faith, culture, and architectural innovation. The “Cairo Grand Islamic Tour” is more than just a pathway through historic sites; it’s an invitation to experience the living testament of Cairo’s rich cultural and spiritual lineage, where every corner whispers secrets of the past, beckoning the curious and the devout alike.

Let the Mosque-Madrassa of Umm Sultan Sha’aban, with its unparalleled beauty and historical significance, be one of the many highlights of your adventure. Join us on the “Cairo Grand Islamic Tour” and step back in time to witness the glory of the Mamluk era, captured in the enduring legacy of Cairo’s Islamic heritage. Book your journey today and be prepared to be mesmerized by the stories etched into the very stones of Cairo’s grandest Islamic treasures.

Created On May 4, 2020

Updated On January 26, 2024