The Red Path (Al-Darb al-Ahmar)

“The Red Path: Al-Darb al-Ahmar” Exploration in Cairo

1. The Red Path: Al-Darb al-Ahmar – Tarabay al-Sharifi Complex

The Red Path begins with the historic Tarabay al-Sharifi Complex, built in 1503 by Emir Tarabay, a prominent Circassian Mamluk under Sultan Qansuh al-Ghuri.

Known for its intricately designed dome and sabil (public fountain), this site encapsulates the artistic and cultural flourishes of the late Mamluk era. Visiting here, you can admire the fusion of function and form, where architecture serves both the community and its aesthetic.

2. Khayrbak Complex

In 1502, Emir Khayrbak, another Circassian Mamluk noble, constructed this stunning architectural grouping along the Red Path, facing Bab al-Wazir Street. The Khayrbak Complex consists of a mosque, a mausoleum, and a sabil, all aligned in an unorthodox but cohesive manner.

This complex not only illustrates the Mamluk commitment to religious structures but also highlights their contribution to urban development.

3. Aqsunqur Mosque (The Blue Mosque)

The Red Path tour would be incomplete without a visit to the Aqsunqur Mosque, also known as the “Blue Mosque.” Founded by Emir Aqsunqur in 1347, this mosque is famous for its intricate blue tilework, added during renovations by Ibrahim Agha Mustahfizan.

Its vibrant blue ceramics, which adorn the qibla wall, give it a distinctive charm, making it a visual highlight on this historical trail.

4. Umm Sultan Shaaban School

One of the most celebrated stops along the Red Path is the Umm Sultan Shaaban School, established by Lady Khwand Baraka, the mother of Sultan al-Ashraf Shaaban. Completed in 1368, this educational structure was initially a school for the Shafi’i and Hanafi jurisprudential schools, symbolizing the era’s intellectual and religious pursuits.

Its architecture, organized around a central open courtyard with four perpendicular iwans, is a notable example of Mamluk educational complexes.

5. Ahmed Katkhuda al-Razzaz House

Traveling further on the Red Path, you’ll encounter the House of Ahmed Katkhuda al-Razzaz. This residence represents Cairo’s layered history, as it consists of an eastern section dating back to the 15th century during Sultan Qaytbay’s reign, and a western addition by Ahmed Katkhuda from the 18th century.

This blend of Mamluk and Ottoman architecture reflects Cairo’s evolving urban landscape.

6. Qijmas al-Ishaqi Mosque

This stop introduces the Qijmas al-Ishaqi Mosque, built between 1480 and 1481 by Emir Saif al-Din Qijmas al-Ishaqi.

Combining religious and practical features, the mosque includes a dome, a sabil, a kuttab (Quranic school), and a water basin. Designed in the school style, this structure is a testament to Mamluk devotion to both learning and public welfare.

7. Al-Salih Tala’i Mosque

Concluding the Red Path, we find the Mosque of Al-Salih Tala’i, the last mosque constructed during the Fatimid era and one of Egypt’s oldest suspended mosques.

Built by the Fatimid Vizier Tala’i ibn Ruzzik, it is famed for its elevated structure, which sets it apart from other Cairo mosques.

As a lasting relic of the Fatimid period, it provides insight into Cairo’s architectural transitions from the Fatimid to Mamluk eras.

Included/Excluded

All transfers by air-conditioned vehicle
Expert tour guide
Entry fees
Bottle of water

Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary

Tour Plan

ONE DAY TOUR

Begin your journey through Cairo’s historic Al Darb Al Ahmar district with a fresh perspective, starting from the scenic Al-Azhar Park. This itinerary will guide you through some of the most iconic Mamluk and Ottoman sites, providing both a cultural and architectural immersion.

Starting Point: Al-Azhar Park

Arrival at Al-Azhar Park
Begin your day at Al-Azhar Park with panoramic views of Cairo’s skyline and the historic minarets dotting the horizon. Take a moment to appreciate the lush greenery and snap some photos of Cairo’s oldest Islamic district from the park’s elevated vantage points.
Walk to the Bab al-Wazir Gate
A short stroll from the park’s southern exit leads you to Bab al-Wazir Gate. This ancient gate serves as an entryway to Al Darb Al Ahmar and a starting point to immerse yourself in Cairo’s rich Mamluk history.

Tour Stops in Al Darb Al Ahmar

1. The Khayrbak Complex
Time Required: 30 minutes
Begin your journey with the Khayrbak Complex, a stunning example of Mamluk architecture dating back to 1502. The complex includes a mosque, mausoleum, and sabil, all built in a harmonious yet unique alignment along Bab al-Wazir Street. This site reflects the intricate detail characteristic of Mamluk art.

2. Aqsunqur Mosque (The Blue Mosque)
Time Required: 45 minutes
A few minutes' walk from Khayrbak leads to the Aqsunqur Mosque, also known as the “Blue Mosque” for its striking blue tiles. Built in 1347 by Emir Aqsunqur, this mosque is a visual delight, especially its qibla wall adorned with vibrant blue tilework added during later renovations.

3. Tarabay al-Sharifi Complex
Time Required: 30 minutes
From Aqsunqur, walk along Al Darb Al Ahmar Street to the Tarabay al-Sharifi Complex, a historical gem from 1503. This complex, built by Emir Tarabay, includes a dome, sabil, and various Mamluk architectural elements. The site is a beautiful example of the era's commitment to combining utility with artistry.

4. Umm Sultan Shaaban School
Time Required: 45 minutes
Just a short walk ahead, you’ll find the Umm Sultan Shaaban School. Built in 1368 by the mother of Sultan al-Ashraf Shaaban, this school features a courtyard surrounded by four iwans, symbolizing educational prestige in Mamluk Cairo. It was originally intended for Shafi'i and Hanafi students, making it a historic center of Islamic learning.

5. House of Ahmed Katkhuda al-Razzaz
Time Required: 30 minutes
Continue along Al Darb Al Ahmar to reach the House of Ahmed Katkhuda al-Razzaz. This historical residence showcases Cairo’s architectural evolution, with one section dating to the 15th century and another to the 18th century. This unique blend offers insight into the city’s Ottoman and Mamluk heritage.

6. Qijmas al-Ishaqi Mosque
Time Required: 30 minutes
Next, visit the Qijmas al-Ishaqi Mosque, built between 1480 and 1481 by Emir Qijmas al-Ishaqi. Designed with elements of a school, this mosque includes a dome, sabil, kuttab (Quranic school), and a water basin. It’s an outstanding example of multifunctional Mamluk architecture.

7. Al-Salih Tala’i Mosque
Time Required: 30 minutes
Finally, end your tour at the Mosque of Al-Salih Tala’i, the last mosque built during the Fatimid era and one of Cairo’s oldest elevated mosques. Built by the Fatimid Vizier Tala’i ibn Ruzzik, this suspended mosque sits uniquely above street level, offering a special vantage point over the surrounding area.

Ending Point: Return to Al-Azhar Park or Local Cafes for Relaxation

After completing the tour, you can return to Al-Azhar Park for a relaxing end to the day or visit one of the nearby traditional cafes to enjoy some Egyptian refreshments. Reflect on the architectural wonders of Al Darb Al Ahmar and immerse yourself in Cairo's storied past.

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