Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a melting pot of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Among the many landmarks that adorn the city, the Al-Azhar Mosque stands out as a significant religious and cultural centre. Known as the oldest university in the world, the Al-Azhar Mosque is a testament to the rich history of Islamic culture and architecture.
A Brief History of Al-Azhar Mosque
The Al-Azhar Mosque holds great significance in the history of Islam. It has been a centre of learning and education for Muslims since its inception in 970 CE. The mosque was originally founded by the Fatimid caliphs of Egypt, who established their capital in Cairo.
Over the centuries, the Al-Azhar Mosque has been witness to numerous historical events and has played a pivotal role in shaping Islamic thought and scholarship. Its rich history and architectural beauty continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
Foundation and Early Years
The foundation of the Al-Azhar Mosque was laid out by the Fatimid caliph, Jawhar al-Siqilli. The mosque was constructed on a site where the Fatimid army had previously pitched their tents. The mosque quickly became a hub of intellectual and academic activity, with scholars and students from all over the Muslim world converging to study Islam and its various disciplines.
During its early years, the Al-Azhar Mosque was not just a centre of religious education, but also a place where scientific and philosophical ideas were exchanged and debated. The mosque’s library, which was established in the 10th century, became a repository of classical Islamic texts and manuscripts, making it an important centre of scholarship.
Expansion and Architectural Evolution
The Al-Azhar Mosque underwent a series of expansions and renovations over the centuries. The most striking of these was carried out during the reign of Sultan al-Mu’ayyad, who commissioned the construction of several new buildings within the mosque compound. The most notable additions were the ornate minarets, which were built to match the elegance of the mosque’s main prayer hall.
Another significant moment of expansion happened during the Ottoman era, when the mosque underwent a complete overhaul in the typical Ottoman architectural style, with the addition of the dome, a new minbar (pulpit), and a large courtyard. The Ottoman sultan, Selim I, also established a madrasa (Islamic school) within the mosque compound, which became an important centre of Islamic scholarship.
Al-Azhar Mosque’s Role in Islamic Education
Since its inception, the Al-Azhar Mosque has played a pivotal role in Islamic education, making it the oldest university in the world. It has been a centre of traditional Islamic studies, offering courses on subjects ranging from Islamic law and jurisprudence to Arabic grammar and literature.
It also continues to host conferences and academic events, bringing together scholars from across the Muslim world.
Today, the Al-Azhar Mosque remains an important centre of Islamic scholarship, with thousands of students from all over the world studying there. The mosque’s library, which now houses over 100,000 manuscripts, remains an important resource for scholars and researchers.
Visitors to the mosque can also enjoy its stunning architecture and intricate details, including the beautiful calligraphy that adorns its walls and the intricate tilework that covers its domes and minarets. The mosque’s central courtyard, which is surrounded by beautiful arcades and fountains, is a peaceful oasis in the heart of bustling Cairo.
Architectural Highlights of Al-Azhar Mosque
The Al-Azhar Mosque boasts an impressive and intricate architectural design, blending influences from different periods and cultures.
The Minarets
The mosque’s minarets are one of its most visually striking features. They are adorned with intricate patterns and inscriptions, demonstrating the refined style of Fatimid architecture. The minarets also serve as a call to prayer for the surrounding neighbourhoods.
The Courtyard
The central courtyard of the Al-Azhar Mosque is a peaceful oasis in the midst of a bustling city. It is covered in intricate mosaics and fountains, creating a serene and calming atmosphere, which encourages contemplation and reflection.
The Prayer Hall
The main prayer hall is a sight to behold. It has an intricately patterned ceiling and a mihrab (a niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca) that is decorated with gold and lapis lazuli.
The Mihrab and Minbar
The mihrab is the focus of the prayer hall. The intricate patterns and calligraphy of the mihrab’s design create a visual representation of God’s majesty and power. Similarly, the minbar is the pulpit where the imam (religious leader) delivers sermons to the congregation. It is also decorated with intricate patterns and calligraphy.
Al-Azhar Mosque as a Center for Islamic Learning
The Al-Azhar Mosque has been a centre of Islamic education for over a thousand years. Numerous notable figures in Islamic history have studied and taught at the university, shaping the development of Islamic thought and theology.
Al-Azhar University
Al-Azhar University is the main facilitator of Islamic studies within the mosque. It offers courses for both men and women in law, theology, and language studies. The university also offers courses in modern sciences and fields such as medicine and engineering.
The Library of Al-Azhar
The Library of Al-Azhar is a treasure trove of Islamic knowledge, housing rare and valuable manuscripts. The library is open to both students and scholars eager to expand their understanding of Islamic history, theology, and literature.
Notable Scholars and Alumni
Over the centuries, the Al-Azhar Mosque has produced numerous great scholars, theologians, and thinkers, some of whom have left lasting legacies in Islamic thought and scholarship. These include the likes of Imam al-Ghazali, who is widely regarded as one of the most influential scholars of the Islamic intellectual tradition and Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the current Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Mosque.
Visiting Al-Azhar Mosque
Location and Accessibility
The Al-Azhar Mosque is situated in the heart of Islamic Cairo, making it easily accessible. Visitors can take the metro or a taxi to the mosque.
Guided Tours and Visitor Information
A visit to Al-Azhar Mosque is a must-do for anyone visiting Cairo. Guided tours can be organized with local travel companies or at the entrance of the mosque. Visitors must arrange to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Etiquette and Dress Code
Respectful behaviour is expected within the mosque compound, and visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately. Men must wear long trousers and a shirt, while women must wear a headscarf and a modest dress or an abaya (a floor-length cloak).
In conclusion, the Al-Azhar Mosque is not only a visually stunning example of Islamic architecture but also a centre of Islamic learning and thought. The mosque and the university housed within it have made significant contributions to the Islamic intellectual tradition and continue to uphold its rich legacy. A visit to the mosque is a must-do for anyone interested in the history of Islam and its role in shaping the world today.
