Demerdash Pasha Palace and Mosque surrounded by agricultural land during harvest time

Demerdash Mosque

Demerdash Mosque Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Cairo Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Demerdash Mosque and Its Significance in Cairo

Nestled in the bustling Al-Wayli district of Abbassia, Cairo, the Demerdash Mosque stands as a remarkable testament to Egypt’s Islamic heritage. Dating back to the early 16th century Mamluk era, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also the shrine of the esteemed Sufi saint Sidi Demerdash. Its onion-shaped dome, ornate muqarnas, and unique fusion of Mamluk and Ottoman architectural elements continue to draw historians, architects, and spiritual seekers. The mosque remains an active center for daily prayers, Quranic education, and the annual mawlid festival honoring Sidi Demerdash, reflecting its deep community roots. Its proximity to landmarks such as Demerdash Hospital and Ain Shams University makes it accessible for travelers eager to explore Islamic Cairo’s rich history (Wikipedia; Holidify; Travel2Egypt).

Demerdash Mosque: History, Architecture, and Spiritual Heritage

Historical Origins and Patronage

The Demerdash Mosque was established in the early 16th century, during the Mamluk period. Its founding is attributed to land granted by Sultan Qaytbay to Sidi Demerdash (Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn Al-Amir), in recognition of his religious standing. After the Ottoman conquest of Egypt in 1517, the mosque maintained its significance, becoming a Sufi shrine after Sidi Demerdash’s death and burial there in 1524 (Wikipedia; Wikiwand).

Architectural Features

Demerdash Mosque showcases late Mamluk architecture, with a compact prayer hall surmounted by a distinctive onion-shaped dome. Sixteen small windows in the dome allow sunlight to illuminate the interior, highlighting the mosque’s refined muqarnas and decorative elements. A beautifully crafted zarih (wooden latticework) surrounds the tomb of Sidi Demerdash. The mosque also houses the tombs of notable figures such as a wife of Khedive Hassan Effendi and Sinan Pasha. Despite suffering during the French occupation of Egypt (1798–1801), the mosque has persevered as a symbol of Cairo’s resilience (Wikipedia).

Religious and Sufi Heritage

As the shrine of Sidi Demerdash, the mosque is a centerpiece for Sufi devotion in Cairo. It is renowned for hosting the annual mawlid—a festival marked by prayer, communal meals, and Sufi rituals. The mosque also serves as a hub for daily prayers, Friday sermons, Quranic classes, and community activities, reflecting its ongoing role in Cairo’s spiritual and social life (Travel2Egypt; Cairo Tours Planner).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Etiquette

Visiting Hours and Entry

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is best to visit outside prayer times for a less crowded experience.
Tickets: There is no entrance fee; the mosque is an active place of worship. Donations are appreciated to support maintenance.
Accessibility: Easily reached by car, taxi, or public transport. The mosque is near Demerdash Hospital and Ain Shams University. Modest dress is required, and shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall.

Guided Tours

While official guided tours are not provided by the mosque, many local tour operators include it in Islamic Cairo itineraries. Engaging a knowledgeable guide can enhance your visit and deepen your understanding of the mosque’s history and traditions.

Dress Code and Visitor Conduct

Dress Code: Modest attire is mandatory. Women should cover their heads, arms, and legs; men should avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. Bring a scarf or shawl if needed (herasianadventures.com).
Shoes: Remove shoes before entering the prayer areas. Tipping shoe custodians (5–10 EGP) is customary.
Photography: Allowed in exterior and courtyard areas; always request permission before photographing inside or including worshippers.
Behavior: Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor, especially during prayers or religious ceremonies.

Architectural Layout and Decorative Arts

Spatial Organization

Demerdash Mosque follows a traditional hypostyle plan, with a large rectangular prayer hall supported by columns and an open central courtyard (sahn) for gatherings and ablutions. The qibla wall, facing Mecca, features the mihrab (prayer niche) and the minbar (pulpit for sermons), both ornately decorated (architecturecourses.org).

Minarets and Domes

The mosque’s slender minaret is a visual landmark, adorned with geometric motifs reflecting Mamluk and Ottoman styles. The dome, often richly ornamented with arabesque and calligraphic patterns, enhances the acoustics and symbolizes the heavens (scribd.com).

Arches, Columns, and Materials

Pointed arches and robust columns, often of marble or local stone with intricately carved capitals, define the prayer hall. The entrance portals are marked by monumental arches and geometric tilework.

Decorative Arts

Demerdash Mosque is celebrated for its Islamic calligraphy, particularly Quranic verses rendered in elegant scripts on the mihrab, minbar, and upper walls. Arabesque patterns and glazed ceramic tilework in blue, green, and white add vibrancy, while stained glass windows and mashrabiya (carved wooden screens) create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow (cairo360.com).

Integration with Urban Context and Preservation

The mosque’s facades, featuring carved stone and wooden inlays, blend with the neighborhood’s bustling streets, markets, and residential areas. Ongoing preservation efforts focus on maintaining the mosque’s structural integrity and decorative features, often involving collaborations between local authorities and skilled artisans using traditional techniques (architecturecourses.org).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Getting There

The mosque is located in Abbassia, close to Ain Shams University and Demerdash Hospital. Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Careem) are convenient. The nearest metro station is Al-Shohadaa, approximately 3 km away.

Best Time to Visit

Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and heat, particularly in summer (Global Highlights).

Nearby Attractions

St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church (El-Botroseya)
Zaafarana Palace
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Al-Azhar Mosque
Sultan Hassan Mosque
Cairo Citadel (Trek Zone; Time Travel Turtle)

Cultural Context and Community Role

Beyond its architectural beauty, Demerdash Mosque is a focal point for local religious and social activities. It supports community programs such as religious education, charity work, and health campaigns, reflecting its enduring role as a center of spiritual and social support (Egyptian Streets).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Demerdash Mosque?
A: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (some sources state until 6:00 PM); avoid prayer times and Fridays for quieter visits.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations are welcome.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not officially through the mosque, but local tour operators offer guided visits as part of Islamic Cairo tours.

Q: Is the mosque wheelchair accessible?
A: The main entrance is accessible, but some historic areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Q: What is the dress code for visitors?
A: Modest dress is required. Women should cover their hair; men should avoid shorts.

Q: Can I take photos inside the mosque?
A: Photography is allowed with permission, but avoid photographing worshippers or disrupting prayer.

Enhance Your Visit

Explore high-quality images and virtual tours to appreciate the mosque’s details.
Use interactive maps for navigation and to locate nearby attractions.
Download the Audiala app for curated guides and the latest updates on Cairo’s historical sites.

Summary and Resources

Demerdash Mosque is a vital destination for anyone interested in Cairo’s Islamic, architectural, and social heritage. Open daily and free to enter, it provides a peaceful and culturally rich experience, especially when visited with respect for local customs. Its status as a Sufi shrine adds spiritual depth, and its proximity to other historical landmarks makes it an excellent starting point for exploring Islamic Cairo. Preservation efforts continue to safeguard its unique character for future generations. For more information, consult the following resources: