Latest news with #Mamluk-era
CairoScene
13-07-2025
- General
- CairoScene
Two Historic Domes in Cairo Revived With Climate-Sensitive Restoration
Two Historic Domes in Cairo Revived With Climate-Sensitive Restoration In the heart of Islamic Cairo, two restored domes reaffirm the city's layered identity and highlight the need to address rising climate threats to heritage through thoughtful conservation. After years of decay, the centuries-old domes of Yahya al-Shabih and Safiyy al-Din Jawhar have been revived through a climate-sensitive restoration led by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in partnership with the British Council's Cultural Protection Fund and implemented by Megawra, as part of the ERTH: Athar Lina Heritage and Climate Project. Both domes had suffered from typical but increasingly urgent structural issues - underground water, salt damp, inundation, sinkholes, and the degrading effects of extreme heat. The restoration prioritised minimal intervention, employing traditional materials and homegrown techniques that preserved the buildings' architectural integrity across centuries of additions and adaptations. The Yahya al-Shabih Dome, built between AH 549 and AH 555 and recognised as the largest Fatimid dome in Cairo, shelters the shrine of a descendant of Al-Husayn who earned his nickname - 'the Lookalike' - for his close resemblance to the Prophet Muhammed (PBUH). Nearby, the Mamluk-era dome of Safiyy al-Din Jawhar (AH 714), built for a commander and former chief inspector of the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah, reflects a distinct architectural lineage. Climate-adaptive strategies were central to the project. At the Yahya al-Shabih Dome, the restoration included structural masonry repairs, groundwater drainage, roof restoration, and the conservation of historic cenotaphs. Similar efforts were undertaken at the Safiyy al-Din Jawhar Dome, with a stronger emphasis on water management, as the site had been flooded for over 20 years and had become a health hazard. To address this, the team installed a perforated underground pipe system to stabilise water levels and prevent future flooding. A dewatering system now extracts 500 litres of water per day - clean enough to meet FAO standards - which is repurposed for urban farming, municipal cleaning and firefighting. Similar greening efforts have been introduced in the graveyard courtyards surrounding the Al-Shabih Dome. Thermal and humidity insulation was also incorporated after visible damage to wall surfaces and coloured wood elements. Across both sites, the goal extended beyond repairing the two domes to modelling low-impact methods of protecting heritage architecture from accelerating climate stresses. 'I love Cairo - and even more so, Islamic Cairo - because it feels like the city's beating heart. Sites like these embody that spirit, which is why the Cultural Protection Fund is proud to support these projects," explained Gareth Bayley, the British Ambassador to Egypt. "It's not just about preserving buildings; it's about preserving the local community as well.' Workshops, training programs, and educational materials accompanied the hands-on restoration. Students, architects, and local community members engaged in on-site learning about climate-linked damage and traditional repair techniques. For the broader community - especially children - heritage awareness and urban planting activities fostered a stronger connection to place. Innovative signage, QR codes and guided tours link the sites to establish tourism itineraries to strengthen tourist access to the restored sites. 'The goal is to preserve heritage, benefit from it, and do so without causing harm,' added Sherif Attia, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. Looking ahead, the project will expand its cultural impact through a locally produced product line inspired by the restored domes, carrying the design language and material textures of Cairo's heritage into the fabric of daily life.
CairoScene
11-07-2025
- General
- CairoScene
Preserving the Layered Legacy of Cairo's Ibn Tulun Mosque
The restoration honours the mosque's Abbasid origins and Mamluk-era additions, using reversible, compatible methods to safeguard its architectural evolution. The Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun stands with an authority few structures in Cairo can claim. Completed in the late ninth century by the Tulunid ruler Ahmad Ibn Tulun, the mosque is one of Cairo's oldest surviving religious structures - and one of the few major structures built primarily of baked brick. A comprehensive restoration completed in 2005 avoided overwriting its layered history, instead prioritising restraint, material compatibility and long-term reversibility. The mosque follows the Abbasid hypostyle model, with a vast central courtyard surrounded by arcades and a wide ziyada enclosing the site. Sultan Lajin's Mamluk-era additions - the spiral minaret and the domed structure covering the courtyard fountain - introduced stone into the originally brick-and-plaster structure, setting up a dialogue between eras rather than a fixed stylistic identity. Today, the mosque sits within a dense, low-income district. Despite this shifting urban fabric, the mosque retains spatial clarity - its nearly square plan still reading as a distinct void in the built environment. By the late 20th century, water infiltration and salt migration had severely weakened the brickwork and foundations. Incompatible repairs using cement mortars and reinforced concrete caused additional structural stress, while decorative stucco, timber features, and the 20th-century concrete ceiling showed widespread damage. Failing infrastructure in the surrounding neighbourhood further complicated conservation efforts. The restoration, led by the Historic Cairo Conservation Project, emphasised detailed documentation, non-invasive techniques, and material compatibility. Lime-based mortars replaced cement, and the courtyard was re-paved in stone using sand and lime concrete without Portland cement to allow for reversibility. Additional work was carried out to stabilise and protect the building envelope and surfaces, each intervention guided by a preference for continuity over visual overhaul. The project involved over 350 participants, combining Egyptian conservators with international experts. It was as much about capacity building as conservation. A scientific committee, largely academic, guided methodology, while implementation remained grounded in local knowledge and labour. Today, the project is viewed locally as a point of pride and has sparked incremental improvements in the surrounding neighbourhood. The restoration of the Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun offers a rare example of conservation rooted in humility rather than spectacle. It avoids reductive notions of 'returning' to a singular historical moment, and instead treats the building as an evolving object - one whose value lies in its layers, not despite them.
Al-Ahram Weekly
09-04-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
El-Sisi and Macron stroll in Khan El-Khalili echoes beyond words - Society
Standing in quiet surprise, watching Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron stroll through the bustling Khan El-Khalili market, Mustafa's cart—nestled between spice vendors and copper workshops—suddenly found itself in the spotlight. For years, the mint tea seller had poured steaming cups without a second thought, but today, he stood in awe as the presidential motorcade passed by. This occurred when President El-Sisi accompanied Macron to Old Cairo's Khan El-Khalili market on Sunday evening, marking the beginning of Macron's three-day visit to Egypt. Later, wiping his brow with a rose-embroidered cloth, Mustafa said, 'Of course, I felt joy. It's a message to the world: Egypt is safe.' He quietly recited a Quranic verse: 'Enter Egypt, God willing, in safety and security.' This was no random visit. Khan El-Khalili was chosen with intention—not just for its charm but to deliver a message that contradicted headlines of unrest. Amid the scent of cardamom and the clinking of metal, the two presidents walked side by side, blending into the crowd, their security details almost unnoticed. Khan El-Khalili, a historic district in Old Cairo, has long drawn visitors with its bustling bazaars, traditional eateries, and vibrant street life. Known for its centuries-old architecture and enduring charm, the 600-year-old market remains one of the oldest in Egypt and the Middle East. Despite the passage of time, it has retained its Mamluk-era character. File Photo: Bab al-Ghuri and shops in the market area in Khan El-Khalili. Photo courtesy of my guide cairo website. Video clips and photos captured the two presidents also walking through Al-Hussein Square, where the public greeted them warmly outside the iconic Al-Hussein Mosque and Shrine, engaging with the crowd as they passed. Nobel's Café El-Sisi and Macron later dined at one of the renowned local restaurants in the market. At Nagib Mahfouz Café and Restaurant, named after Egypt's Nobel laureate, the air hummed with the gentle melodies of oud music. Ashraf Attia, the owner, had coordinated closely with French embassy officials. 'Our goal was to offer the best service,' he said, gesturing to the high-ceilinged hall adorned with oil paintings and Arabic calligraphy. The presidential delegation, nearly 80 strong, had reserved the entire place for a traditional Egyptian meal: lentil soup, grilled meats, baba ghanoush, and oriental sweets. Kamel, a soft-spoken waiter in his thirties, recalled Macron's simplicity: 'He pointed at dishes like any tourist would.' He indicated the table where the leaders sat, which the next day hosted a Texan tour group. Their guide, Nashwa Awad, said she insisted they dine there after seeing footage of the visit. 'I told them: This is a historic moment!' One tourist, a white-haired woman in a purple blouse, whispered, 'You have a beautiful, safe country.' Then, as if sharing a secret, she added, 'We didn't come just for the pyramids. We came to see the people—how they live together despite everything.' Egyptian Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and French President Macron dining at Nagib Mahfouz Café and Restaurant in Khan El-Khalili. Photo courtesy of Khan El Khalili Restaurant Facebook page. The silent pride of artisans Down a narrow alley, Samir's handmade paper shop glimmered, its sheets dyed in rich hues. 'I gifted the president a notebook I made,' he said, smoothing a page with care. 'The visit was diplomatic, yes, but also a message: Egypt stands strong and safe.' Nearby, Ahmed, an elderly fabric merchant, remembered the president's roots: 'He is from here, from El-Gamaleya. His family worked in arabesque woodwork. I remember his father and grandfather crafting mother-of-pearl inlays. Back then, our neighbourhood had Jews, English, and Armenians. His cousins still work in the trade, with a workshop nearby.' Two streets over, an old mother-of-pearl workshop displayed frames etched with Arabic script. Mahmoud, the craftsman, reflected, 'Maybe the president worked here as a boy in this fading craft. If so, it gave him a deep knowledge of art and trade.' At Arabesque Ali Hamama's workshop, antique wooden balconies and other relics stood prominently. Haj Ali Halawa, the elder, interjected: 'This is one of Cairo's oldest workshops. Even the TV series Arabesque, starring Saleh El-Saadany, was inspired here.' Tea and unscripted moments At Umm Kulthum Café, owner Magdy seemed in disbelief. 'They walked in like regular customers,' he insisted. 'No crowds—just families enjoying tea.' The two presidents lingered over their cups, with Macron appearing enchanted by vintage radios playing the songs of the Star of the East. Behind this warmth, heavier matters lay. Sources confirmed talks on Gaza aid and economic partnerships. But in Khan El-Khalili, the message was clearer: Egypt's streets, often reduced to headlines of crisis, could still host a quiet stroll between old friends The two presidents greeted vendors and passersby while strolling through the Khan El-Khalili market. As the sun set over Khan El-Khalili, lanterns flickered on, casting a warm glow over the centuries-old market. The presidents departed, the tea was cleared, and tourists resumed their visits. But for a brief moment, between sips of mint tea and handshakes with artisans, Egypt was seen not through headlines but as it truly is: enduring, vibrant, and welcoming. Some messages speak without words. Tourism is one of Egypt's key sources of foreign currency, along with remittances from Egyptians abroad, Suez Canal revenues, and foreign direct investments. In 2024, Egypt welcomed 15.7 million tourists and generated $14.1 billion in total revenue, exceeding the previous record of 14.9 million visitors set in 2023. To boost tourism, the Egyptian government has developed a national tourism strategy to attract 30 million visitors by 2028. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Al-Ahram Weekly
08-04-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Khan El-Khalili speaks: El-Sisi, Macron's symbolic stroll that echoed beyond words - Society
Standing in quiet surprise, watching Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron stroll through the bustling Khan El-Khalili market, Mustafa's cart—nestled between spice vendors and copper workshops—suddenly found itself in the spotlight. For years, the mint tea seller had poured steaming cups without a second thought, but today, he stood in awe as the presidential motorcade passed by. This occurred when President El-Sisi accompanied Macron to Old Cairo's Khan El-Khalili market on Sunday evening, marking the beginning of Macron's three-day visit to Egypt. Later, wiping his brow with a rose-embroidered cloth, Mustafa said, 'Of course, I felt joy. It's a message to the world: Egypt is safe.' He quietly recited a Quranic verse: 'Enter Egypt, God willing, in safety and security.' This was no random visit. Khan El-Khalili was chosen with intention—not just for its charm but to deliver a message that contradicted headlines of unrest. Amid the scent of cardamom and the clinking of metal, the two presidents walked side by side, blending into the crowd, their security details almost unnoticed. Khan El-Khalili, a historic district in Old Cairo, has long drawn visitors with its bustling bazaars, traditional eateries, and vibrant street life. Known for its centuries-old architecture and enduring charm, the 600-year-old market remains one of the oldest in Egypt and the Middle East. Despite the passage of time, it has retained its Mamluk-era character. File Photo: Bab al-Ghuri and shops in the market area in Khan El-Khalili. Photo courtesy of my guide cairo website. Video clips and photos captured the two presidents also walking through Al-Hussein Square, where the public greeted them warmly outside the iconic Al-Hussein Mosque and Shrine, engaging with the crowd as they passed. Nobel's Café El-Sisi and Macron later dined at one of the renowned local restaurants in the market. At Nagib Mahfouz Café and Restaurant, named after Egypt's Nobel laureate, the air hummed with the gentle melodies of oud music. Ashraf Attia, the owner, had coordinated closely with French embassy officials. 'Our goal was to offer the best service,' he said, gesturing to the high-ceilinged hall adorned with oil paintings and Arabic calligraphy. The presidential delegation, nearly 80 strong, had reserved the entire place for a traditional Egyptian meal: lentil soup, grilled meats, baba ghanoush, and oriental sweets. Kamel, a soft-spoken waiter in his thirties, recalled Macron's simplicity: 'He pointed at dishes like any tourist would.' He indicated the table where the leaders sat, which the next day hosted a Texan tour group. Their guide, Nashwa Awad, said she insisted they dine there after seeing footage of the visit. 'I told them: This is a historic moment!' One tourist, a white-haired woman in a purple blouse, whispered, 'You have a beautiful, safe country.' Then, as if sharing a secret, she added, 'We didn't come just for the pyramids. We came to see the people—how they live together despite everything.' Egyptian Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and French President Macron dining at Nagib Mahfouz Café and Restaurant in Khan El-Khalili. Photo courtesy of Khan El Khalili Restaurant Facebook page. The silent pride of artisans Down a narrow alley, Samir's handmade paper shop glimmered, its sheets dyed in rich hues. 'I gifted the president a notebook I made,' he said, smoothing a page with care. 'The visit was diplomatic, yes, but also a message: Egypt stands strong and safe.' Nearby, Ahmed, an elderly fabric merchant, remembered the president's roots: 'He is from here, from El-Gamaleya. His family worked in arabesque woodwork. I remember his father and grandfather crafting mother-of-pearl inlays. Back then, our neighbourhood had Jews, English, and Armenians. His cousins still work in the trade, with a workshop nearby.' Two streets over, an old mother-of-pearl workshop displayed frames etched with Arabic script. Mahmoud, the craftsman, reflected, 'Maybe the president worked here as a boy in this fading craft. If so, it gave him a deep knowledge of art and trade.' At Arabesque Ali Hamama's workshop, antique wooden balconies and other relics stood prominently. Haj Ali Halawa, the elder, interjected: 'This is one of Cairo's oldest workshops. Even the TV series Arabesque, starring Saleh El-Saadany, was inspired here.' Tea and unscripted moments At Umm Kulthum Café, owner Magdy seemed in disbelief. 'They walked in like regular customers,' he insisted. 'No crowds—just families enjoying tea.' The two presidents lingered over their cups, with Macron appearing enchanted by vintage radios playing the songs of the Star of the East. Behind this warmth, heavier matters lay. Sources confirmed talks on Gaza aid and economic partnerships. But in Khan El-Khalili, the message was clearer: Egypt's streets, often reduced to headlines of crisis, could still host a quiet stroll between old friends The two presidents greeted vendors and passersby while strolling through the Khan El-Khalili market. As the sun set over Khan El-Khalili, lanterns flickered on, casting a warm glow over the centuries-old market. The presidents departed, the tea was cleared, and tourists resumed their visits. But for a brief moment, between sips of mint tea and handshakes with artisans, Egypt was seen not through headlines but as it truly is: enduring, vibrant, and welcoming. Some messages speak without words. Tourism is one of Egypt's key sources of foreign currency, along with remittances from Egyptians abroad, Suez Canal revenues, and foreign direct investments. In 2024, Egypt welcomed 15.7 million tourists and generated $14.1 billion in total revenue, exceeding the previous record of 14.9 million visitors set in 2023. To boost tourism, the Egyptian government has developed a national tourism strategy to attract 30 million visitors by 2028. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
