The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan is a monumental masterpiece of Mamluk architecture, situated in the heart of Islamic Cairo near the Citadel. Commissioned by Sultan an-Nasir Hasan, construction commenced in 1356 and concluded in 1363. The complex was designed to serve both as a congregational mosque and a madrassa, accommodating the four Sunni schools of jurisprudence: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali.

🕌 Architectural Significance

• Grand Entrance: The mosque features one of Cairo's most imposing portals, soaring approximately 38 meters high. This entrance is adorned with intricate muqarnas (stalactite-like decorations), exemplifying the Seljuq influence on Mamluk architecture.

• Central Courtyard: At the heart of the complex lies a vast courtyard (sahn) surrounded by four iwans (vaulted halls), each dedicated to one of the Sunni schools. The courtyard houses a central ablution fountain, essential for ritual purification.​

• Prayer Hall & Mihrab: The qibla iwan, oriented towards Mecca, serves as the main prayer hall. It boasts a richly decorated mihrab (prayer niche) and a minbar (pulpit) crafted from polychrome marble, showcasing the artisanship of the era.

• Mausoleum: Intended as Sultan Hasan's final resting place, the mausoleum is crowned with a massive dome. However, following the Sultan's assassination in 1361, his body was never interred here.

• Minarets: Originally, the mosque featured two minarets flanking the mausoleum. Today, only one survives, standing as a testament to the mosque's historical grandeur.

🕰️ Visiting Information

• Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. ​

• Ticket Prices: A combined ticket for the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and the adjacent Al-Rifa'i Mosque costs 60 EGP for adults and 30 EGP for students.

• Dress Code: Visitors are advised to dress modestly. Men should wear long trousers, and women should cover their arms, legs, and hair. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque.​

• Guided Tours: Available and recommended for those interested in a deeper understanding of the site's historical and architectural significance.

📍 Location & Nearby Attractions

Located in the historic district of Islamic Cairo, the mosque is adjacent to the Al-Rifa'i Mosque, which houses the tombs of several members of Egypt's royal family. The Citadel of Cairo, another significant landmark, is also within walking distance, making the area rich in historical and architectural marvels.​

📚 Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural and historical aspects of the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, consider the following resources:

• "Cairo of the Mamluks: A History of the Architecture and Its Culture" by Doris Behrens-Abouseif.

• "Islamic Monuments in Cairo: The Practical Guide" by Caroline Williams.

These works provide comprehensive insights into the Mamluk era's architectural achievements and the cultural context of the period.