AL-AZHAR
Brief Description:
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most important Islamic mosques in Cairo, founded in the 10th century bыыыыy the Fatimids. It serves as the spiritual center of Sunni Islam and is home to the world’s oldest functioning Islamic university.
Location:
Cairo, Egypt
Historical Background:
Founded in 970 by Caliph Al-Muizz li-Din Allah of the Fatimid dynasty.
The first Friday prayer was held here in 972.
In the 11th century, a school was established at Al-Azhar, which later became a university.
Al-Azhar University grew into a leading center of Islamic theology and scholarship, maintaining this role up to the present day.
Notable Figures:
Al-Muizz li-Din Allah — Fatimid caliph who founded the mosque.
Scholars and theologians of Al-Azhar who had a profound influence on the development of Islamic thought.
Religious Significance:
Al-Azhar Mosque is a key center of Sunni Islam. It hosts prayers, and studies in Sharia, Hadith, and Quranic sciences. Al-Azhar University holds great authority throughout the Islamic world.
Cultural and Touristic Significance:
Al-Azhar is considered the heart of Islamic Cairo and a cultural heritage site. The mosque and university attract millions of pilgrims and students each year. Its architecture combines Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman styles, with minarets from different eras and richly decorated interiors.
Current State:
The mosque and university remain active today, supported by the Egyptian government and international Islamic organizations. Al-Azhar continues to be the largest spiritual and educational center of the Sunni world, open for prayer, pilgrimage, and visits by tourists.
