Alabaster Mosque construction started in 1830 and completed 27 years later. It was designed by Greek architect Yussuf Bushnaqa who made plans for the command of Mohammad Ali Pasha, the then ruler of Egypt. It also owes him his second name.
Alabaster mosque or Mohammed Ali mosque consists of a proper Mosque and the magnificent courtyard. The courtyard is almost square, has dimensions of 52 m x 54 m. It is surrounded by four galleries decorated with marble columns and topped by small domes. After the middle of the courtyard is a fountain for ritual ablutions. Mihrab, indicating the direction of Mecca beautified alabaster with gold finish.
The dome of the mosque has 52 meters, and two eastern minarets of 84 meters high. The walls of the building are on the inside and outside covered with alabaster to the height of 11 meters. Mosque of Muhammad Ali stands over the Citadel of Saladin in Cairo. From the courtyard presents a beautiful view of the city.
However, in a real delight introduce us to the interior of the mosque. A large number of glass pendants and crystal lamps creates an amazing atmosphere of the place. Huge chandeliers low overhead make a great impression
During the tour have to remember the take off shoes and covered up the body. Although the mosque is available to tourists it is still a place of prayer.
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