Cairo: Fortress, Mosques, Museum of Civilization and Unusual Palace

What to Expect

Cairo Citadel
You will explore the towers of the 12th-century fortress. You will see the Mukattam Mountain, from which the ancient Egyptians cut stones for building the pyramids. Take photos on the observation deck overlooking the Old City and mosques. Visit the remains of barracks and palace in the fortress.

I will tell you about Saladin - the first sultan of Egypt and Syria, after whom the citadel was named. You will learn about his campaign against the Crusaders, the capture of Jerusalem, and the establishment of a powerful Islamic state.

We will approach Mosque of Muhammad Ali - the heart of the Cairo Citadel. This is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. Admire its soaring domes - the largest in Islamic architecture in Egypt. Examine the wall cladding that gives the mosque its nickname Alabaster or Marble. And hear about the ruler of the 19th century for whom the construction was commissioned. His tomb is located here.

Other Famous Mosques of Cairo
You will explore Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the oldest, largest, and most prestigious Islamic universities in the world. Discover the architecture of Ibn Tulun Mosque - the oldest of the Egyptian mosques that preserved its initial appearance and the largest in Cairo. You will also visit Sultan Hassan and Al-Rifai Mosques, an impressive ensemble with mausoleums.

The program includes Islamic monuments, but we will also talk about how people of different faiths have been living in Egypt for centuries. Living in friendship and aiding each other.

Cairo Egyptian Museum
After that, we will head to the Old City, where we will visit the museum with the largest collection of ancient Egyptian art objects. We will travel through different historical epochs. And of course, you will see the exhibits of the royal mummies hall, where more than 20 pharaohs and their wives are located.

Baron Empain Palace
To conclude, you will visit an interesting architectural monument opened after restoration in 2020. The building externally resembles a Hindu temple, and its creation is associated with the Belgian industrialist Edouard Empain.

The program also includes a boat ride on the Nile.