Language/Egyptian-arabic/Culture/Islamic-Era-and-Monuments

Egyptian Arabic → Culture → Islamic Era and Monuments

Egypt has a rich Islamic history that stretches back many centuries. The country is home to some of the most magnificent examples of Islamic architecture in the world, and its mosques, mausoleums, and other monuments are a testament to the development of Islamic culture in Egypt.

Islamic Era in Egypt

Islam arrived in Egypt in the 7th century and quickly became the dominant religion of the country. During the Islamic era, there was a great flourishing of art and culture, and the Islamic monuments built during this period are some of Egypt's most important cultural treasures.

The Islamic era in Egypt can be divided into several periods, each of which saw the construction of important monuments:

Fatimid Period (969-1171)

The Fatimid dynasty ruled Egypt from 969 to 1171, and they left a lasting legacy in the form of many monumental buildings. Some of the most important Fatimid monuments in Egypt include:

• Al-Azhar Mosque: This mosque was founded in 970 and is one of the oldest universities in the world. It remains an important center of Islamic learning to this day.
• Al-Hakim Mosque: This mosque, built in 990, is named for the Fatimid caliph al-Hakim. It was heavily damaged by earthquakes over the centuries, but has been restored and is now a popular tourist attraction.
• Bab Zuweila: This gate, which once served as the southern entrance to the city of Cairo, was built in 1092 and is one of the few remaining gates from the Fatimid period.

Ayyubid and Mamluk Period (1171-1517)

After the Fatimid dynasty came to an end, Egypt was ruled by the Ayyubid and Mamluk dynasties from 1171 to 1517. During this period, many important Islamic monuments were built in Egypt, including:

• Cairo Citadel: This fortress was built by the Ayyubid ruler Salah al-Din (Saladin) in the 12th century. It was expanded and improved by subsequent rulers and now houses several important museums and mosques.
• Sultan Hassan Mosque: This mosque, located in Cairo, was built in the late 14th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture in the world.
• Al-Rifa'i Mosque: This mosque, located in the neighborhood of the same name in Cairo, was built in the 19th century and is the final resting place of many members of the Egyptian royal family.

Ottoman Era (1517-1867)

Egypt came under Ottoman rule in 1517, and the Ottoman period saw the construction of several important Islamic monuments, including:

• Mohamed Ali Mosque: This mosque, built in the mid-19th century by the ruler Mohamed Ali, is located in the Citadel of Cairo and is one of the most famous mosques in Egypt.
• Qism El-Rifai Mosque: This mosque, located in the neighborhood of the same name in Cairo, was built in the 18th century and is famous for its beautiful blue-and-white tilework.

Islamic Architecture

Islamic architecture is known for its intricate geometric patterns, elaborate calligraphy, and use of colorful tilework. Many Islamic monuments in Egypt feature these elements, as well as other distinctive characteristics:

• Minarets: These tall, thin towers are a common feature of Islamic architecture and serve as a symbol of the Islamic faith. They are often decorated with intricate patterns and are used to call Muslims to prayer.
• Domes: Islamic mosques often feature large, domed roofs that are meant to symbolize the heavens. These domes are usually decorated with intricate patterns and calligraphy.
• Courtyards: Islamic mosques usually have large, open courtyards that are used for congregational prayers. These courtyards are often surrounded by arcades and are designed to create a sense of community among worshippers.

Vocabulary

Here are some useful words and phrases related to Islamic monuments and architecture in Egypt:

Egyptian Arabic	Pronunciation	English
مسجد	misjid	mosque
مئذنة	ma'ẓana	minaret
قبة	qobba	dome
ساحة	saha	courtyard

Cultural Tips

• When visiting an Islamic mosque or monument, it's important to dress modestly and to remove your shoes before entering.
• If you are not Muslim, it's usually best to avoid visiting mosques during prayer times.
• While many Islamic monuments in Egypt are open to tourists, some are still used for religious purposes and may only be open to worshippers.

Sources

• Islamic Architecture
• Islam in Egypt

Related Lessons

• Egyptian Cuisine
• Religion in Egypt
• Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr
• Egypt Timeline
• Family Values
• Greetings and Politeness
• Modern Egyptian History
• Ancient Egyptian History