Sayyida Nafisa Mosque Cairo
A revered shrine and mosque dedicated to a beloved female saint, offering a sanctuary of peace and spiritual connection in historic Cairo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Sayyida Nafisa Mosque Cairo
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered shrine and mosque dedicated to a beloved female saint, offering a sanctuary of peace and spiritual connection in historic Cairo. 
"The most amazing spiritual experience in Cairo, by far the most beloved closest place to my heart.
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women may need a headscarf.
🙏 Seek Blessings
Many visitors come for spiritual connection and to pray for their needs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Shrine of Sayyida Nafisa
Interior of the mosque
The tomb of the revered saint, a focal point for pilgrims seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
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Architectural Serenity
Exterior and interior
Experience the peaceful ambiance and beautiful Islamic architecture that makes this mosque a hidden gem.
Historical Connections
Near Sayyidah Zaynab Mosque
Located in a historic district, it's part of Cairo's rich Islamic heritage, connected to other significant sites.
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Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Spiritual Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women may need a headscarf.
🙏 Seek Blessings
Many visitors come for spiritual connection and to pray for their needs.
🚶 Explore the Area
The surrounding historic district offers more to discover.
📸 Respectful Photography
Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women may need a headscarf.
🙏 Seek Blessings
Many visitors come for spiritual connection and to pray for their needs.
🚶 Explore the Area
The surrounding historic district offers more to discover.
📸 Respectful Photography
Ask permission before taking photos of people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sayyida Nafisa Mosque for its deeply spiritual and peaceful atmosphere, often describing it as a highlight of their Cairo visit. The shrine is a focal point for many seeking blessings and finding solace. While the mosque's interior is appreciated, some note that the surrounding area is undergoing renovation.
"Sayyidah Nafisah (also known as Nafisah bint al-Hasan) was a revered female saint and descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). She is highly respected in Islamic tradition, particularly in Egypt, where she spent much of her life and where her shrine remains a place of visitation.
Lineage & Early Life
- She was born in 145 AH (762 CE) in Mecca.
- Her full name was Nafisah bint al-Hasan ibn Zayd ibn al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib, making her a direct descendant of Imam Hasan, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Her family was part of the Ahl al-Bayt (the Prophet's household), known for their piety and scholarship
Travels & Knowledge
- Nafisah was known for her deep knowledge of Islam, including Quranic exegesis (Tafsir), Hadith, and Fiqh.
- She traveled from Mecca to Madinah, where she studied and taught religious sciences.
- Later, she moved to Egypt with her husband, Ishaq al-Mu’tamin (a scholar and descendant of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq).
Life in Egypt
- In Egypt, she became famous for her piety, worship, and miracles (karamat).
- She was known for fasting during the day and praying at night, often completing the entire Quran in one night of worship.
- Many scholars and students sought her knowledge, including Imam al-Shafi’i (founder of the Shafi’i school of Islamic jurisprudence), who held her in high regard.
- When Imam al-Shafi’i was near death, he requested that Sayyidah Nafisah lead his funeral prayer, but she declined due to modesty. Instead, she prayed for him from her home.
Death & Shrine
- She passed away in 208 AH (824 CE) in Egypt.
- Initially, her husband planned to bury her in Madinah, but the people of Egypt begged to keep her remains there due to her spiritual status.
- Her shrine in Cairo (near the Mosque of Sayyidah Zaynab) remains a major site of visitation (ziyarah) for Muslims seeking blessings.
- Her tomb is known as "Masjid al-Sayyidah Nafisah" and is a place of prayer and reflection.
Legacy
- Sayyidah Nafisah is remembered for her asceticism, knowledge, and devotion.
- She played a key role in spreading Islamic teachings in Egypt.
- Many miracles and answered prayers are attributed to her, making her one of the most revered female saints in Islam."
Osama Muntaha
"The most amazing spiritual experience in cairo, by far the most beloved closest place to my heart ❤️. The place is amazingly peaceful and the tomb is extraordinarily beautiful. Enjoy your visit and you will leave there with absolute peace of mind."
Moataz Mustafa
"The mosque itself is quite good interior and exterior, however the surrounding were not quite good area,l but i think the area is going through national renovation project as part of the ancient Islamic Egypt."
moustapha kamel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mosque is located in the Sayyida Nafisa district of Cairo. Taxis or ride-sharing apps are convenient options. It's often visited in conjunction with other historical mosques in the area.
While direct metro lines might not reach the immediate vicinity, you can take a metro to a nearby station and then a short taxi or bus ride.
Using GPS on your phone or asking a local for directions to 'Masjid Sayyida Nafisa' is recommended.
Parking can be challenging in this historic area. It's often best to use ride-sharing services or be prepared for limited street parking.
The area is generally safe, but like any busy urban environment, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the mosque and shrine is typically free. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep.
The mosque is generally open daily, but it's advisable to check local listings or inquire upon arrival, especially around prayer times.
No advance booking is required for general visits. It's a place of worship and visitation, not a ticketed attraction.
The mosque may have brief closures during the five daily prayers. It is also closed on Ashura for specific religious observances.
Yes, the shrine of Sayyida Nafisa is the main attraction and is accessible to visitors.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women are advised to wear a headscarf to cover their hair.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful and avoid photographing people directly without their permission.
It is a revered shrine and mosque dedicated to Sayyida Nafisa, a descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), known for her piety and knowledge.
While Sayyida Nafisa was a descendant of Imam Hasan (a figure revered by both Shia and Sunni Muslims), the mosque is generally considered a Sunni place of worship.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful, spiritual, and deeply moving, with many finding it a place of great comfort.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the surrounding district offers various local eateries and street food vendors where you can sample Egyptian cuisine.
You can find traditional Egyptian dishes like koshary, falafel, and various grilled meats and stews.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the local food scene around the mosque for an authentic experience.
Small cafes are often available in the vicinity, offering refreshments like tea and coffee.
It's best to consume food and drinks outside the prayer halls to maintain the sanctity of the mosque.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior of the shrine, the mosque's architectural details, and the courtyard offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
Natural light filters in through windows and openings, creating a serene ambiance. Evening visits might offer softer lighting.
Tripods might not be permitted inside, especially during busy prayer times. It's best to check on-site regulations.
Look for the intricate tile work, calligraphy, and the serene atmosphere of the shrine itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more space to observe. The historical context of Sayyida Nafisa as a respected female scholar can be a valuable lesson. While there are no specific child-centric activities, the overall experience can be educational and spiritually enriching for the whole family.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to absorb the serene ambiance. Engage in personal prayer or contemplation. Many visitors find that spending extended time here allows for a deeper spiritual connection. The mosque is a testament to the enduring legacy of piety and devotion in Islamic tradition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Legacy of Sayyida Nafisa
+1Her life in Egypt was marked by intense devotion, including fasting and nightly prayers, often completing the entire Quran in a single night. Notably, Imam al-Shafi'i, the founder of the Shafi'i school of jurisprudence, held her in high esteem and sought her counsel. Her influence extended to correcting fatwas, showcasing her intellectual and spiritual authority.
Upon her passing in 824 CE, the people of Egypt pleaded for her remains to stay, recognizing her immense spiritual status. Her shrine, located in Cairo, has since become a significant site for ziyarah (pilgrimage), where Muslims visit to seek blessings and connect with her spiritual legacy. The mosque bearing her name is a testament to her enduring impact on Islamic history and spirituality in Egypt.
Visiting the Mosque: Etiquette and Experience
+1The experience inside is often described as profoundly peaceful and spiritual. Many visitors report feeling a deep sense of calm and connection, making it a highlight of their Cairo trip. The tomb of Sayyida Nafisa is the focal point, and visitors often engage in prayer and reflection here. While photography is generally permitted, it's crucial to be discreet and respectful, avoiding intrusive shots of worshippers.
Beyond the mosque itself, the surrounding historic district offers a glimpse into old Cairo. While the immediate area might be undergoing renovations, exploring the neighborhood can add to the overall experience. Remember that this is a place of worship and remembrance, so maintaining a quiet and reverent demeanor is key to appreciating its sanctity.
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