Things to see in Cairo

Covering 7,900 sq m (85,000 sq ft), this is one of the largest mosques in the world and the finest early Mamluk structure in Cairo. It was built between 1356 and 1363 and encompasses a stunning courtyard, four madrassas (theology schools) and a mausoleum flanked by huge doors. Visitors should go in the morning when the sun lights up the dark mausoleum.

Daily 0800-1700.

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Of all the mosques in Cairo, this one is unmissable. Completed in 879 AD, it is the oldest intact mosque in the city. The huge structure, built of mud-brick and wood, covers 2.4 hectares (6 acres). Its elegance is in its simplicity, with pointed arches the first of their kind. It is a unique example in Cairo of classical Islamic architecture inspired by Iraqi models, having been built by Ibn Tulin, who was sent to rule Cairo by the caliph of Baghdad. The views from the top of the spiral minaret are magnificent and don’t forget to tip the attendant who allows access.

Daily 0800-1600.

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Ringed by an important thoroughfare in the heart of downtown, Midan Al-Tahrir or ‘Liberation Square’ has been a symbol of protest since the Egyptian Revolution of 1919. Though tourists came here in the past largely for the Egyptian Museum, it’s now recognised across the world as the birthplace of Egypt’s 2011 revolution against Hosni Mubarak’s 30-year rule. It is now relatively quiet, though the situation can change quickly and it’s a good idea to keep abreast of the news if considering a visit. Though caution is advised and demonstrations should be avoided, the square is compelling for its graffiti, eclectic visitors from almost all walks of Egyptian life, and festival atmosphere on many afternoons.

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Little remains of Salah Al-Din's original 12th-century palace but the mosques and palaces atop this limestone outcrop reflect 700 years of Cairo history. The fortifications were first built to repel the Crusaders and became the royal residence for sultans well into the 19th century. The Mohammed Ali Mosque, with its huge central dome and four semi-domes, towers over the city. The enclosure also contains the Mosque of al-Nasir, Yusuf's Well and several small museums. The views over Cairo from the Citadel are outstanding.

Sat-Thurs 0800-1700.

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Some of the most impressive architecture of the Fatimid period can be found in Al-Azhar. The district is demarked by colossal gates and square towers – remnants of the old enclosure walls. Beyond them are five important mosques, including the Mosque of Al-Hakim and the Mosque of Al-Azhar. The latter was erected in AD970 as the crowning achievement of the new Fatimid city, and its madrassa is regarded as one of the world’s oldest educational institutions, drawing learners from across the Islamic world. It finds an interesting counterpoint in the severe, military style of Al-Hakim, which was completed in 1013.

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This huge necropolis is divided into the northern and southern cemetery on either side of the Citadel and contains some outstanding Islamic architecture. The finest monuments are in the northern cemetery. The Mosque of Qaytbey, a Mamluk ruler, has an intricately carved dome, the finest in the Muslim world, while the splendidly decorated interior surrounds a peaceful courtyard. An ancient tradition sees Cairenes come to visit and often picnic at the graves of their relatives, while dozens of ‘tomb squatters’ have made this their home. It’s a fascinating sight, but visitors are advised to stick to the main streets in daylight hours, and not to visit alone.

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