Al-Azhar Park in Cairo: A Tourist's Guide

The Al-Azhar Park is one of the foremost public parks in Egypt, found in Cairo City, and it is recorded as one of the world's sixty incredible open parks by the Public Spaces Venture. The Historic Cities Support Program made it with the help of The Aga Khan Trust for Culture. Once a rundown region in Cairo, it has undergone a miraculous change and is a popular tourist destination in Egypt.

The Park includes more than two million trees and plants. It is situated in an excellent location with dazzling views, and the best shaded walkways. It has a large play area for children and families to appreciate their holiday and have a fantastic time. Al-Azhar Park covers a range of 80 acres of land, and it was named after the iconic Al-Azhar Mosque, the oldest surviving Fatimid landmark in Egypt.

Al-Azhar Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is a place where people can relax, enjoy the scenery, and breathe fresh air.

This guide will explain the history and architecture of Al Azhar Park. It will also attempt to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting the site, including Why visit? When is the best time to travel? How do you get there? - more.

Brief History

Al-Azhar Park is a public park situated on the edge of the historic Darb al-Ahmar district in Cairo, Egypt. It was built on a former garbage dump site and opened in 2005.

The Park was designed by the French landscape architect Jacques Greber, who also designed the Park's master plan. The Park cost an estimated US$30 million to build and was funded by the Aga Khan Trust For Culture Foundation and the Egyptian government.

The Park has been praised for its design and role in revitalizing the surrounding area. The Park has also been a venue for several events like concerts and theatre shows.

Restoration of Ayyubid Wall

While the excavation of the Park was still going on, a 1.5 km piece of a wall that reached a depth of 15 meters was found beneath the mountains of trash. The towers and wall of the long-forgotten Ayyubid Wall of Cairo were unveiled. It became clear that the newly discovered gem was important to the park project. The stone wall, which had been buried for centuries, had undergone a lot of deterioration, including flaking and disaggregation.

Two former eastern city gates, Bab al-Barqiyya and Bab al-Mahruq, were among the structures uncovered and restored. The uncovered wall segment can be shown to constitute a uniform piece of construction. It comprises a few repeating elements, such as round-fronted towers and curtain walls, and is consistent in its use of materials. The walls are adorned and punctuated by crenulations, arrow slits, stairwells, and chambers.

Architecture

Al-Azhar Park is renowned for its Neo-Islamic architectural style and features several elements characteristic of this style. The most notable feature of the Park is the geometric al-Azhar Garden. 

Overall, the architectural style of Al-Azhar Park reflects the Islamic influences in Cairo. The Park is planned in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, making it a popular spot for local people and visitors alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why visit The Al-Azhar Park in Historic Cairo?

The Park is a great place for tourists to visit for several reasons.

• First, the Park is a great example of sustainable development. The Park was built on top of a landfill and has been designed to use recycled water and solar power.
• Second, the Park is great for learning about Egyptian culture and history. Several museums and cultural centres are located in the Park, and the Park hosts several events throughout the year.
• Third, the Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The Park has several gardens and is located near other important Cairo landmarks.
• Finally, the Park is home to several attractions, making it a great place to spend a day.

Al-Azhar Park is a great place for all types of tourists. There is something for everyone to enjoy. The Park is an awesome place to relax, learn about history, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Who will enjoy visiting Al-Azhar Park?

Many different types of tourists would enjoy visiting Al-Azhar Park. This Park is a great place to visit for those who enjoy spending time outdoors, as there are a lot of opportunities to do so. There are also several different cultural attractions within the Park, making it a great place for those curious to learn more about Egyptian culture.

One tourists who would enjoy visiting Al-Azhar Park is a nature lover. This Park is filled with beautiful gardens and plenty of green space. There are also several different fountains and water features within the Park, which makes it a great place to unwind and appreciate the scenery.

Another type of tourists who would enjoy visiting Al-Azhar Park is the history buff. This Park is close to several different historical attractions, including the Al-Azhar Mosque and the ancient Salah Aldeen citadel in the neighbourhood. This mosque is one of the oldest in Egypt and is a great place to learn about the country's history and culture. 

There are also several different museums within the Park, making it an excellent place for those interested in learning more about Egyptian history and culture.

Overall, Al-Azhar Park is a great place to visit for various tourists. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, you'll find plenty at this Park.

What is the best time of the year to visit Al-Azhar Park?

The best time of year to visit Al-Azhar Park is springtime. This is because the weather is generally milder during this time of year, and the flowers and plants in the nursery bloom. The Park is also less crowded during the springtime, so you can enjoy the attractions without having to deal with large crowds.

No matter when you visit, Al-Azhar Park is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Cairo.

How do I get to Al-Azhar Park in Cairo?

Assuming you are starting from Cairo International Airport, the following are directions to get to Al-Azhar Park. It's about 13km and takes about 20 mins to drive.

1. From Cairo International Airport, leave the airport straight onto el-Orouba street.
2. Continue straight leading onto Salah Salem Street.
3. Stay on Salah Salem Street and it will lead directly to the park

There are also a few ways to get to Al-Azhar Park:

• One way is to take the Metro. The Park is about a 30 minute walk from the Mohamed Naguib Metro station. The Metro is the cheapest and most efficient way to get around Cairo.
• Another way to get to Al-Azhar Park is by taxi. Taxis are readily available and are not too expensive. 

How much does it cost to visit The Al-Azhar Park, and when is it open?

 Al-Azhar Park is a public park located in Cairo, Egypt. It is one of the largest parks in the city and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Park is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm. Admission to the Park is around 10 Egyptian pounds.

Note: Fees and Opening hours may change without notice.

What should I wear at Al-Azhar Park?

The Park has a dress code that the Park's security guards enforce. The dress code is as follows:

• No shorts or skirts that are above the knee.
• No sleeveless shirts or dresses.
• No tank tops.
• No revealing or tight clothing.

The dress code is enforced for both men and women. Anyone who violates the dress code will be asked to leave the Park.

The dress code at Al-Azhar Park is designed to ensure that everyone can enjoy the Park in a comfortable and respectful environment. The dress code is not intended to be discriminatory or to restrict anyone's freedom of expression.

How fit do I need to be?

So, what is the recommended level of fitness to visit Al-Azhar Park?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on your fitness level and what you want to get from your visit to the Park.

If you want to stroll around the Park, you don't need to be super-fit.

However, if you want to make the most of the Park's walking and jogging trails, you must be reasonably fit.

Safety Recommendations

Here are some safety recommendations for visitors to Al-Azhar park:

• Do not travel to the Park alone. It is always best to travel in groups, especially if you are a woman.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Do not leave your belongings unguarded, and keep your valuables hidden.
• Do not accept food or drink from strangers.
• Do not accept rides from strangers. There have been reports of people being offered rides by strangers in the Park only to be robbed or assaulted.
• Do not engage in any illegal activities, such as drug use.
• If you are being harassed or feel unsafe, please report it to the police or park security immediately.
• Be cautious when using ATMs near the Park. There have been reports of skimming devices being placed on ATMs near the Park, so it is best to use an ATM inside a bank or other secure location.

Following these safety recommendations can help ensure that your visit to Al-Azhar Park is safe and enjoyable.

What souvenirs can I buy?

The Park is full of souvenir shops selling a wide variety of items. Here are some of the souvenirs that you can buy at the Park:

1. T-shirts: There are many souvenir shops selling T-shirts with the logo of The Al-Azhar Park. You can also find T-shirts with Egyptian landmarks such as the pyramids and the Sphinx.
2. Hats: You will find many shops selling traditional Egyptian hats. You can also find other hats, such as baseball caps and sun hats.
3. Jewellery: Several jewellery shops sell a wide variety of jewellery, from simple bracelets to elaborate necklaces. You can also find body-piercing jewellery and rings.
4. Toys: If you have kids, they will enjoy buying souvenir toys at The Al-Azhar Park. Many shops sell various toys, from traditional Egyptian dolls to modern action figures.
5. Books: There are several bookstores selling books about Egypt, its history, culture, and attractions. You can also find books in other languages, such as English and French.
6. Food: Many souvenir shops sell traditional Egyptian food, such as spices, coffee, tea, and sweets. You can also find international food items such as chocolate and candy.
7. Music: Several music stores sell various CDs and DVDs. You can find both traditional and contemporary Egyptian music and international music.
8. Art: Many art galleries sell paintings, sculptures, and pottery. You can find both traditional and contemporary Egyptian art and art from other cultures.
9. Clothing: Many clothing stores sell a wide variety of clothes, from traditional Egyptian dress to modern casual wear. You can also find various shoes, bags, and accessories.

Many souvenir shops sell various souvenirs, from keychains to magnets. Visitors can also find other items, such as postcards, posters, and stickers.

What else can I do at Al-Azhar Park?

There are several activities available at the Park, including:

• Walking and hiking: Several trails are available for walking and hiking. The trails offer great views of the Park and the city.
• Bird watching: The Park is home to several birds, including ducks, egrets, small falcons. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy watching the birds in their natural habitat.
• Picnicking: There are several picnic areas available in the Park. Picnickers can enjoy the beautiful scenery while they eat their lunch.
• Boat rides: Boat rides are available on the lake. Visitors can enjoy the views of the Park from the water.
• Visiting the Al-Azhar Mosque: The Al-Azhar Mosque is located near the Park. The mosque is open to visitors and offers a place to pray and learn about Islam.

Al-Azhar Park is a great place to spend a day in Cairo. There are several activities available for visitors to enjoy.

What helpful tourist tips do you have for visiting Al-Azhar Park?

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Al-Azhar Park:

1. Plan your visit: Al-Azhar Park is a large park with a lot to see and do. It is best to plan your itinerary to make the most of your visit. This way, you can ensure you see all the sights you want and have time to enjoy the Park's many amenities.
2. Dress comfortably: Al-Azhar Park can be pretty hot, especially during summer. Be sure to dress comfortably and in loose-fitting clothing. Wearing a hat or sunglasses is also a good idea to protect yourself from the sun.
3. Bring plenty of water: There are several water fountains throughout the Park, but it is always a good idea to bring your water, especially if you are planning on spending a lot of time in the Park.
4. Take advantage of the Park's amenities: Al-Azhar Park has several amenities you can take advantage of, including a playground, a swimming pool, and several restaurants and cafes. Check out the Park's website in advance to see what is available.
5. Respect the Park's rules and regulations: The Al-Azhar Park is a place everyone enjoys, so be sure to respect the Park's rules and regulations. This includes not littering, not smoking, and not disturbing the peace.

We hope you enjoy your visit to Al-Azhar Park!

Al-Azhar Park: MUST-READ GUIDES ON AMAZON

Landscape as a Tool to Enhance Behavioural Response and Activities: An Evaluative Methodology to Historic Urban Parks – Al-Azhar Park

Historic urban parks play a very vital role in forming the nature of behaviour and activities. Therefore, it is not only an urban component in the city tissue. But it is the place, which holds the nature of human life, and by reusing of the landscape design inside it, we can develop and direct the activities and behaviour in the best way according to the society and place characteristics. The main goal of this research is to reach an integrated coinage for the open parks in the historic old cities. This coinage can offer the reasonable explanations for the relation between historic landscape design and the behaviour and activities inside the space. The proposed evaluative model divides the process of evaluation into three main pivots falls through detailed evaluation points, which in turn contribute to the access of the significant features for the evaluation process, these main pivots are: ( Urban park layout and landscape design - Urban Park and activities - Historic landscape perception).

Cairo's Great Oasis: The Welcome Calm of Al-Azhar Park / Thomas Balsley: What Every Good Public Space Needs / A Wasp to Dread: It's a Scourge Around Pines - (Volume 101, Number 4, April 2011)