Mausoleum of Sultan Qâytbây

Mausoleum of Qaytbay in Cairo's Northern Cemetary

Mausoleum of Qâytbây, Northern Cemetary, Cairo, June 30, 1994

The Mausoleum of the Mamlûk Sultan Qâytbây (which I often call a mosque, because it serves as a mosque and a madrasa in addition to being a mausoleum) is one of my favorite buildings in Cairo. The mausoleum, which sat alone in Cairo's "Northern Cemetary" when it was built in 1472, is now surrounded by buildings constructed by those living in this "City of the Dead" among the graves of their ancestors. Its main dome, which is visible in this rear view, is one of the finest examples of Mamlûk decoration, masterfully combining the arabesque and geometric styles on a single surface. The structure, with its dome, minaret and beautiful interior, represents perhaps the pinnacle of Mamlûk architecture and, though off the beaten path, is definite "must visit" on any trip to Cairo.