Maridani Mosque (El)

Description:

• Built in the 14th Century, al-Maridani Mosque is one of the most peaceful Cairo mosques. The mosque looks very plain from the outside, though with a pretty minaret, and you enter in to an open courtyard complete with palm trees and singing birds. The stone water fountain looks like it has seen better days, and has a wood covering that looks like a beehive. From inside you can make out the al-Maridani mosque's huge onion dome. The prayer room is separated from the courtyard by huge mashrabia screens, and supported by various stone columns: some Mamluk, some Roman, and some allegedly of from the Pharaonic period. There are some gorgeous stained glass windows in beautiful, bright colours, and the decaying red and brown wood ceiling is resplendent with the glory of times past. The overall effect of the al-Maridani Mosque is one of simplicity and tranquillity, with a slight echo of faded grandeur. It's a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the chaotic outside world of Islamic Cairo.
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