Yahia Mosque

Yahia Mosque Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Alexandria Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Yahia Mosque, also known as Masjid Yahia or Yehia Basha Mosque, is a distinguished Islamic landmark in Alexandria, Egypt. Located in the historic Anfushi district near the scenic Corniche, the mosque is renowned for its harmonious blend of Ottoman, Islamic, and European architectural styles, reflecting Alexandria’s dynamic cultural evolution in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designed with input from Italian architects like Mario Rossi, Yahia Mosque combines neoclassical and baroque elements with traditional Islamic features such as domes, minarets, and intricate geometric patterns (IJCH).

Beyond its architectural grandeur, Yahia Mosque serves as a vibrant spiritual and community center. It hosts daily prayers, Friday congregations, and major Islamic festivals, while also providing Quranic education, lectures on Islamic jurisprudence, and community outreach programs. Its open-door policy and accessibility features make it an inviting site for both worshippers and tourists. Its central location also positions it as a gateway to other prominent Alexandria attractions, including the Roman Amphitheatre, Kom al-Shokafa Catacombs, and Alexandria National Museum (magnificenttravel.com; Lonely Planet).

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Yahia Mosque’s historical background, architectural highlights, visiting hours, admission details, etiquette, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions to help you plan a respectful and enriching visit.

Introduction
Historical Background
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions
Conclusion

Historical Background

Foundation and Historical Context

Yahia Mosque was constructed during a period of significant urban and religious development in Alexandria, spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Named after Yehia Basha, a philanthropic figure, the mosque is part of a wave of mosque-building that reinforced Alexandria’s role as a religious and cultural hub (IJCH). Italian architects, including Mario Rossi, contributed to the mosque’s distinct fusion of styles.

Architectural Features and Influences

The mosque’s architecture is a testament to Alexandria’s eclectic style, with domes, minarets, and geometric patterns blending seamlessly with European baroque and neoclassical elements. The use of local materials such as marble and carved wood adds to the mosque’s serene interior, while stained glass and calligraphic inscriptions enhance its spiritual ambiance. The façade features pointed arches, arabesque ornamentation, and Quranic inscriptions, with a prominent minaret and dome completing its silhouette (herasianadventures.com; wikipedia.org).

Yahia Mosque is a focal point of spiritual and community life in Alexandria. It hosts daily and Friday prayers, as well as major Islamic celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The mosque also offers Quranic education, lectures, charity events, marriage ceremonies, and social gatherings, reflecting its role as a center for both worship and community engagement (King of Egypt Tours).

Urban Significance and Preservation

Strategically located within Alexandria’s historic urban core, Yahia Mosque stands alongside significant religious sites like the Mosque of Abu Abbas Al Mursi and the Church of St. Mark, reflecting the city’s tradition of religious pluralism (alexandria.com). Ongoing restoration efforts, supported by local authorities and Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities, ensure the mosque’s continued preservation (IJCH).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Yahia Mosque is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Hours may be adjusted during religious holidays or special events. It is best to avoid visiting during peak prayer times, especially Friday Jumu’ah (1:00–3:00 PM), out of respect for worshippers.

Admission and Tickets

Entry to Yahia Mosque is free. While there is no formal ticketing system, it is customary to tip the shoe attendant (5–10 EGP). Donations for maintenance are appreciated but not required (Lonely Planet).

Accessibility

The mosque is equipped with ramps and accessible facilities at its main entrance, though some interior spaces may have steps or uneven surfaces. Wheelchair users and visitors with mobility concerns should inquire locally or bring a companion for assistance.

Guided Tours

Guided tours can be arranged through the mosque administration or local tour operators. Tours provide insights into the mosque’s design, history, and community functions (privatetoursinegypt.com).

Photography Policy

Photography is allowed in exterior and courtyard areas. Always seek permission before taking photos inside the mosque, particularly during prayer times or if worshippers are present. Never photograph people without consent or security personnel (e-visa Egypt).

Travel Tips

Dress modestly: Women should cover shoulders, arms, knees, and wear a headscarf; men should wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless shirts.
Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Plan visits for late morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.
Carry small change for tips and minor purchases.
Use public transportation or taxis, as parking is limited.
Respect mosque customs and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an entrance fee or tickets required?
No, entry is free. Tipping the shoe attendant and making donations are optional.

What are the mosque’s visiting hours?
Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Avoid visiting during Friday midday prayers.

Can non-Muslims visit Yahia Mosque?
Yes, non-Muslims are welcome outside of prayer times and should follow dress and etiquette guidelines.

Is Yahia Mosque wheelchair accessible?
The main entrance has ramps, but some areas may require assistance.

Is photography allowed?
Photography is permitted outside and in the courtyard. Always seek permission inside.

Are there guided tours?
Yes, available through the mosque or local tour agencies.

Nearby Attractions

Yahia Mosque’s central location makes it ideal for exploring Alexandria’s historical sites:

Mosque of Abu Abbas Al Mursi: The city’s most famous mosque (Lonely Planet)
Fort Qaitbey: 15th-century fortress on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria
Terbana Mosque: Historical mosque in the Gumruk quarter
Ras El Tin Palace: Royal palace with sea views
Alexandria National Museum: A showcase of the city’s history
Catacombs of Kom Ash Shuqqafa: Largest Roman burial site in Egypt

A half-day itinerary could include Yahia Mosque, the Corniche, Fort Qaitbey, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Safety, Health, and Practical Tips

Stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep valuables secure.
Women may feel more comfortable visiting in groups or during daylight hours.
Carry hand sanitizer and bottled water; avoid drinking tap water.
Confirm travel vaccinations before your trip (Travel.gc.ca).
Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan and religious holidays.

Contact Information

For updated hours, events, or group visits, contact Yahia Mosque at +20 3 480 1251 or ask at your hotel (Lonely Planet).

Visuals and Interactive Media

Image: Exterior view of Yahia Mosque Alexandria
Image: Interior prayer hall with mihrab and stained glass
Video: Virtual tour of Yahia Mosque Alexandria

Detailed alt tags and interactive maps are recommended for online resources.

Conclusion

Yahia Mosque stands as a testament to Alexandria’s layered Islamic heritage, architectural synthesis, and enduring spirit of religious coexistence (IJCH; Egypt Today). Free, accessible, and visitor-friendly, it offers an ideal starting point for exploring Alexandria’s historical tapestry. Dress respectfully, observe mosque etiquette, and immerse yourself in the rich spiritual and cultural atmosphere.

For the latest updates, download the Audiala app, explore related posts on Alexandria’s heritage, and follow on social media to stay connected with Egypt’s vibrant cultural landscape.

References

Yahia Mosque Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Guide: Explore Alexandria’s Iconic Islamic Heritage (IJCH)
Visiting Yahia Mosque in Alexandria: Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Insights (The Archaeologist), (King of Egypt Tours)
Yahia Mosque Alexandria: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Architectural Highlights (herasianadventures.com), (privatetoursinegypt.com)
Yahia Mosque Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide to Alexandria’s Historic Sites (Lonely Planet), (e-visa Egypt)
Alexandria’s History and Culture (alexandria.com)
Alexandria Egypt: A Tapestry of History and Modernity (magnificenttravel.com)
Alexandria Top Religious Tourism Destination (Egypt Today)
List of Mosques in Alexandria (wikipedia.org)
Egypt Travel Advisory (Travel.gc.ca)