Al-Rifai Mosque: Confluence Of Christian And Islamic Architecture
- Radwa Nabil Abdulaziz Kassm
- May 29, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 29, 2020
Al-Rifai Mosque; a mosque with cross signs on its walls, and the place where Khedive Ismail's Christian wife is buried to show the true meaning of religious unity.
While walking down Muhammad Ali Street early on a quiet sunny day, to visit Al-Rifai Mosque, one of Egypt's most magnificent mosques next to Cairo Citadel, and opposite to the Sultan Hassan Mosque, I realized this mosque marks a blend of various architectural styles.
When you first see the huge cross signs on its wall, which highlights the beauty of this mosque, you will be astonished. The foreign architect Max Herz Pasha and his assistant Carlo Virgilio Silvagni completed the construction of the mosque, by combining both the Mamluk and European styles to be similar to the buildings in Europe at the time.
From the moment you enter this place of worship, it feels as if you have entered a completely different world. Everything becomes utterly calm and peaceful.
There is nothing but the beauty of this mosque for you to cherish, with its huge entrances; and walls that are beautifully decorated with Ebony and radiant golden ornaments.
Its beautiful and elegant chandeliers, hanging from the ceiling, will take you back in time on a journey to the Mamluk era.
When you enter the rooms of the royal family cemeteries, what will surprise you the most is the tomb of Jananyar Hanem, Khedive Ismail’s wife, which is topped with crosses and Qur'anic verses in a scene that shows religious unity.
Some claim that Jananyar Hanem converted to Islam after marrying Khedive Ismail; however, historians did not specify whether she had actually converted to Islam before her death or not.
Her tomb represents the relationship between Christians and Muslims back then during the reign of Isma'il Pasha, when Christians enjoyed equal-full citizenship with Muslims. At that time, segregation was eliminated, and the principle of political, social equality and peace between Muslims and Christians has become a commonplace in Egypt to this day.
Put this enticing landmark on your bucket list of historic places to visit, and do not miss the chance to enjoy an unusual experience of exploring this majestic, one-of-a-kind mosque.
Radwa Nabil, a creative writer and volunteer at The Insider MIU magazine for almost 2 years. Radwa took journalism training at Al-Masry Al-Youm and Al-Ahram. She wrote several feature articles, about the achievements and projects of some influential people. She is a passionate photographer and designer who loves to travel.
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