Cairo Walking Tours

On foot through Cairo

In 1815 William Turner trotted out the following " Cairo must, to a European, be a most uncomfortable residence, for it affords no place where he can take a quiet walk". True, but if you follow his advice you'll be missing out. The American University in Cairo has documented three virtual walks around the city's old Islamic quarter. The routes take you past Cairo 's finest architecture, carved stucco windows, elaborate Koranic calligraphy, minarets, bronze doors, stained glass and wooden grills inlaid with ivory motifs. It's got detailed maps and even a satellite photo, so it'll be a challenge to get lost.

The one kilometre walk following Sharia al-Muizz has the highest density of Islamic monuments in Cairo, including the eccentric Mosque of al-Hakim(having declared himself a divine entity, he rode off into the hills never to return), it's also home to the vibrant Khan al-Khalili bazaar. The Citadel Square walk is shorter and takes you to the fortress of Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi - better known in the West as Saladin. The last walk is down Saliba Street, formerly the Mamluk district(literally meaning "owned by another" and referring to the Asian slaves who lived here). Don't miss the Madrasa of Sarghatmish(a beautiful religious school) or Gayer Anderson's Museum(set up by the eponymous British officer devoted to collecting Islamic arts).

www.aucegypt.edu

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