Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is a city steeped in history and culture. Among its many treasures are the enchanting historical palaces that bear witness to the grandeur of bygone eras.
In this exploration of Cairo’s rich architectural heritage, we embark on a journey through time, discovering the opulent palaces that have graced this ancient city.
From the Palace of Yashbak, a symbol of medieval Cairo’s elegance, to the regal Abdeen Palace, where history has unfolded, these palatial wonders offer a glimpse into Egypt’s past. The Manial Palace and Museum beckon with their cultural treasures, while the Prince Amr Ibrahim Palace houses the Museum of Islamic Ceramics, a testament to Islamic artistry.
Each palace has its own unique story to tell, whether it’s the storied halls of the Beshtak Palace or the resplendent interiors of Al-Gawhara Palace. The Amir Taz Palace, Amir Alin Aq Palace, Dubara Palace, Heliopolis Palace, and many more—all hold secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through these magnificent historical palaces, each a testament to Cairo’s enduring allure and rich cultural tapestry. If you want to read about more museums in Cairo, we have another article.
The Palace of Yashbak
The Palace of Yashbak, also known as the Palace of Amir Qawsun, stands as a fascinating testament to the grandeur of Medieval Cairo.
Originally commissioned between 1330 and 1337 CE for the esteemed Mamluk amir Qawsun, this palace underwent further expansion and restoration in the late 15th century during the reign of Sultan Qaytbay, under the supervision of the powerful amir Yashbak min Mahdi.
Nestled just northwest of Cairo’s Citadel, this remarkable architectural gem was part of a flourishing area that housed numerous palaces for amirs and influential Mamluks during the prosperous reign of Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad.
Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad personally commissioned Qawsun’s palace, reflecting his broader initiative to develop a monumental royal quarter within the Citadel’s vicinity.
The palace’s entrance is a testament to its opulence, characterized by a massive portal adorned with intricate muqarnas sculpting and stone-carved patterns in striking ablaq masonry.
An inscription by the craftsman Mahmud the Syrian adds to its historical significance. Yashbak’s enhancements included projecting walls and a splendid stone muqarnas vault that enriched the portal’s aesthetics.
While two-thirds of the palace have succumbed to the ravages of time, some elements endure, such as the square vestibule chamber with its dome. The ground floor housed vast vaulted halls, serving as stables and storage, while the upper floor featured a lavish reception hall (qa’a).
Although much of the palace now lies in ruins, it likely boasted typical Mamluk-era embellishments, including fountains, marble details, stained-glass windows, wooden mashrabiyyas, and ornate ceilings crafted from carved, painted, and gilded wood.
The Abdeen Palace
Abdeen Palace, a grand testament to Egypt’s historical legacy, graces the Abdeen District of Cairo.
Commissioned by Khedive Ismail in the 19th century, this opulent palace served as the epicenter of Egypt’s government from 1874 until the July Revolution of 1952. Today, it stands as one of the presidential palaces, preserving a rich tapestry of history and culture.
Designed by the renowned French architect Léon Rousseau and crafted with contributions from Egyptian, Italian, French, and European decorators, Abdeen Palace is an architectural marvel.
Adorned with lavish paintings, intricate ornaments, and a multitude of exquisite clocks, many embellished with pure gold, it exudes unparalleled grandeur. The palace was an ambitious project that spanned a decade, with its inauguration taking place in 1874.
Situated on a sprawling 24-feddan estate, the palace was further enhanced by Sultan Fuad I, who added a magnificent garden covering 20 feddans in 1921. The total cost of construction and furnishing soared to £E700,000, a staggering sum at the time.
Abdeen Palace boasts a staggering 500 rooms, each resplendent in its own right. The Salamlek wing features the grand Throne Room, a majestic space adorned with intricate decorations.
The Haramlek wing, which housed the royal family, includes the opulent Queen’s Suite and the Byzantine Chamber, an area richly adorned with elements of various architectural styles.
Today, Abdeen Palace serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Egypt’s rich past. The lower floors house several captivating museums, including the Silver Museum, the Arms Museum, and the Royal Family Museum.
A new addition, the Historical Documents Museum, opened in 2005, displaying significant historical artifacts such as the Imperial Ottoman firman and certificates from the South American Kingdom of Araucanía and Patagonia.
The Manial Palace and Museum
The Manial Palace and Museum, nestled on the picturesque Rhoda Island along the majestic Nile River in southern Cairo, Egypt, is a captivating testament to the opulent lifestyle of Egyptian royalty during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
This historic house museum, under the supervision of the Antiquities Council, offers a vivid glimpse into the life of Prince Mohammed Ali Tewfik, a royal prince and heir apparent of that era.
Constructed between 1899 and 1929, the Manial Palace is a masterpiece of architectural fusion. It seamlessly combines European Art Nouveau and Rococo styles with a rich tapestry of Islamic architectural influences, including Mamluk, Arab Andalusian Revival, Persian, and European elements.
This blend of architectural styles creates a unique spatial design, complemented by sumptuous interior decorations and luxurious materials.
The palace compound comprises five distinctively styled buildings, all set within the embrace of Persian gardens and an extensive English Landscape garden estate, bordered by a gentle branch of the Nile.
Intricate ceramic tile work, a testament to skilled craftsmanship, graces the entryway and the mosque, created by the renowned Armenian ceramist David Ohannessian.
The main residence, with its exquisite rooms, central fountain, and richly decorated interiors, reveals the lavish lifestyle of the prince. The grand throne room, adorned with gilded chairs and mirrors, stands as a testament to Egypt’s royal history.
In 1955, Prince Mohammed Ali Tewfik generously bequeathed the palace, its exquisite furnishings, and his extensive collections to the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities, transforming the estate into a public art and history museum. Visitors can explore not only the opulent palace but also its historical gardens and a forested nature park.
The museum’s highlights include the clock tower, an architectural marvel reminiscent of Moorish minarets, and the elegant mosque, featuring a beautifully adorned mihrab and an array of stunning decorations.
The Prince Amr Ibrahim Palace with the Museum of Islamic Ceramics
The Prince Amr Ibrahim Palace, situated on Cairo’s Zamalek Island, is a historic gem serving multiple cultural purposes. Constructed in 1921 on the orders of Prince Amr Ibrahim, a member of the Muhammad Ali dynasty, this palace is not only a testament to architectural grandeur but also an essential part of Egypt’s cultural heritage.
Prince Amr Ibrahim, married to Necla Sultan, the granddaughter of Ottoman ruler Mehmed VI, used the palace as their summer residence.
Architected by Garo Balyan, the youngest member of the Balyan family, the palace boasts a neo-Ottoman and neo-Islamic architectural style, echoing the aesthetics of the Muhammad Ali dynasty with Moroccan and Andalusian influences.
Its total area spans 850 square meters, comprising a basement and two floors, featuring exquisite details like a marble fountain adorned with blue ceramics in the entrance hall. The palace is complemented by a lush 2,800 square meter garden.
Throughout its history, the palace has undergone various transformations. It became state property in 1953 and served as a club for the Arab Socialist Union until 1971. Subsequently, it was repurposed as an exhibition gallery for paintings donated by former Prime Minister Mohammed Mahmoud Khalil.
In 1998, the building underwent renovation by Egyptian architect Aly Raafat, becoming home to the Museum of Islamic Ceramics in February 1999, and continues to be a cultural treasure celebrating Egypt’s artistic heritage.
The Beshtak Palace
The Beshtak Palace, also known as Qasr Bashtak, is a historic palace and museum nestled in the heart of Cairo.
Constructed in the 14th century by the influential Mamluk amir Sayf al-Din Bashtak al-Nasiri, this architectural gem graces Shari’a al-Mu’izz, an area historically referred to as Bayn al-Qasrayn, meaning “between the two palaces” in recognition of the former great Fatimid palaces that once stood here.
The palace’s history is intertwined with Cairo’s ever-evolving urban landscape. In 1262, Sultan al-Zahir Baybars initiated the transfer of sections of the Fatimid palaces to the state treasury, paving the way for property development in the central city.
Bashtak, a prominent amir, and the Sultan’s Master of the Robes, seized the opportunity to build his residence and stables on part of the Eastern Palace in 1334-1339.
While only a portion of the palace remains today, it originally soared to five stories and boasted running water on each floor. At street level, the palace featured shop openings, generating revenue for Bashtak.
The highlight of the palace is the magnificent qa’a, or reception hall, adorned with a coffered wooden ceiling, stained glass windows, and a central marble fountain—a testament to 14th-century opulence. The hall’s north and south sides feature mashrabiyya windows on upper floors, providing a private vantage point for observing events within the hall.
In 1983, the German Archaeological Institute painstakingly restored the palace, preserving a rare example of 14th-century domestic architecture in Cairo. The Beshtak Palace stands as a remarkable window into Egypt’s historical legacy.
Al-Gawhara Palace
Al-Gawhara Palace, also known as Bijou Palace, stands as a captivating testament to Egypt’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Located south of the Mosque of Muhammad Ali within the majestic Cairo Citadel, this palace-turned-museum was commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha in 1814.
Designed and crafted by artisans hailing from diverse corners of the world, including Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Albania, Al-Gawhara Palace is a masterpiece of international collaboration.
The palace complex encompasses not only the main pavilion but also a range of essential structures, including barracks, schools, an arsenal, a gunpowder factory, and a mint.
Originally designed as a two-story Turkish kushk, the palace boasts Western-style windows, often crowned with oval oeil-de-boeuf. French architect Pascal Coste expanded the palace to accommodate residential quarters for servants and officials.
One side of the palace opens onto a picturesque courtyard, while the other offers breathtaking views of the pyramids and the Nile.
Despite enduring fires in 1822 and 1824, the palace resisted, undergoing further enhancements under Muhammad Ali’s guidance. Marble imported from Italy graced the vestibule, staircase, and corridors. Opulence abounds within, with grand rooms suitable for dancing, conversation, music, reading, games, and refreshments.
The palace’s official divan, where Muhammad Ali held audiences, features a magnificent 1,000kg chandelier gifted by Louis-Philippe I of France. Its walls adorned with paintings depicting foreign ambassador receptions, Al-Gawhara Palace also houses the splendid throne of Muhammad Ali Pasha, a generous gift from the King of Italy.
The Amir Taz Palace
The Amir Taz Palace, also known as Qasr al-Amir Taz, is a historical gem in Cairo, located at the intersection of Saliba Street and Suyufiyya Street.
Constructed in 1352 by Taz al-Nasiri, linked to Sultan Nasir bin Muhammad bin Qala’un’s lineage, the palace initially commemorated his marriage to the Sultan’s daughter. Over the centuries, it underwent renovations, notably in the 17th century during Khedive Ismail’s era.
This palace, once a girls’ school in the 19th century and later a Ministry of Education storage site, maintains its grandeur and significance. Situated in Old Cairo’s Citadel’s Caliph area, it was commissioned by Prince Saif al-Din Taz bin Qatghaj during the Bahri Mamluk era, thriving as a political and cultural hub.
The restoration project, led by the Ministry of Culture, revived the palace despite skepticism from experts. It uncovered hidden archaeological treasures within its sprawling eight-thousand-square-meter area.
The palace boasts a central courtyard, flanked by primary and auxiliary structures, including the Haramlik Pavilion, outbuildings, and stables. While time has taken its toll, the two main facades along Al-Siyoufiya Street and Sheikh Khalil Neighborhood endure.
The palace’s main entrance, marked by a rectangular corridor leading to a courtyard, is a testament to its grandeur. A secondary entrance, known as the palace’s “secret door,” overlooks Sheikh Khalil Neighborhood.
Visitors can still admire the restored main lower hall with plastered walls, harmonizing with original stonework. The Haramlik section features wooden windows and inscriptions reflect Prince Taz’s titles.
The palace’s seat, featuring two levels connected by a staircase, offers a view of the courtyard. A wooden shrine bears cursive writings from Surah Al-Fath. Additional halls adorned with intricate motifs enhance the palace’s splendor.
The Amir Alin Aq Palace
The Amir Alin Aq Palace, also known as the Amir Khayrbak Palace or Amir Khayr Bek Palace, is a historical gem that graced Cairo’s Darb al-Ahmar, the ceremonial route leading to the Citadel. Constructed in 1293 AD, this palace holds a significant place in Egypt’s architectural heritage.
Amir Alin Aq, a cupbearer and amir in the service of Sultan al-Ashraf Khalil ibn Qalawun, commissioned this remarkable building. It stands as an exemplary representation of early Bahri Mamluk architecture. While time has taken its toll on much of the palace, the portal stands as a testament to its former grandeur.
In the 16th century, the palace found itself as the residence of Amir Khayrbak, an Ottoman governor of Egypt. Khayrbak’s reputation was marred by tales of cruelty and greed. Adjacent to the palace lies the mosque he built, known as the Khayrbak Mosque, situated on Bab al-Wazir Street, near the Aq Sanqar Mosque.
The reception hall (qa’a) within the palace is particularly noteworthy, distinguished among its counterparts. This historic site offers a glimpse into the architectural legacy of the Bahri Mamluks and the complex history of rulers in Egypt, making it a valuable part of Cairo’s cultural heritage.
The Dubara Palace
The Dubara Palace, also known as Villa Casdagli or Kasr EL-Dobara Experimental Language School, is a historically significant structure situated in the northern part of the Garden City district in downtown Cairo.
This imposing building has played a central role in Egypt’s modern history and has witnessed numerous conflicts, negotiations, and political events involving royal leaders, Egyptian nationalists, and British administrators during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Designed by Austrian architect Edward Matasek in the early 20th century, the palace was initially built for Emanuel Casdagli, a British-educated member of a Levantine family of Anatolian Greek origins involved in cotton export and textile import trade.
Over the years, it served various purposes, including as a residence for members of the Egyptian royal family and as the American Embassy. It was part of the prestigious Kasr al-Dubara residential district, once Cairo’s top-tier neighborhood and home to several palaces.
Despite its rich history, the palace had fallen into disrepair but is now a decaying relic of the past. Efforts to restore and preserve this architectural gem have been proposed, highlighting its potential to become a significant Cairo landmark. Its restoration could not only rejuvenate the building but also contribute to the city’s cultural heritage and serve as a testament to its rich history.
The Heliopolis Palace
The Heliopolis Palace, also known as the “Palace of the Presidency of the Republic” or “Federation Palace,” is one of Egypt’s three presidential palaces, alongside Montaza Palace and Ras el-Tin Palace.
This grand palace is located in the suburb of Heliopolis, northeast of central Cairo, and originally served as the Heliopolis Palace Hotel when it was built in 1910.
Designed by Belgian architect Ernest Jaspar, the Heliopolis Palace Hotel was a symbol of luxury in Africa and the Middle East during its heyday. It hosted a prestigious clientele, including foreign royalty and international business figures.
The hotel even temporarily transformed into a military hospital for Australian troops during World War I, earning the nickname “the Hospital in a palace.”
In 1958, the Egyptian government purchased the hotel, closing it to the public and repurposing it for government offices. Subsequently, in 1972, it became the headquarters of the Federation of Arab Republics, comprising Egypt, Libya, and Syria.
Following extensive renovations and restoration in the 1980s, the palace was converted into an Egyptian presidential residence and the administrative center for President Hosni Mubarak.
Architecturally, the Heliopolis Palace showcases the Heliopolis style, blending Persian, Moorish Revival, Islamic, and European Neoclassical elements. The palace’s opulent design features a magnificent Central Hall with a soaring dome, luxurious public rooms decorated in Louis XIV and Louis XV styles, Italian marble columns, Persian carpets, and exquisite chandeliers.
Today, the Heliopolis Palace remains one of Egypt’s presidential residences and is surrounded by well-manicured gardens, though its access is highly restricted. This historic landmark stands as a testament to Egypt’s rich architectural and political history.
The Manasterly Palace
The Manasterly Palace, a splendid example of Ottoman Baroque architecture, graces the southern tip of Rawda Island along the Nile in Cairo. This enchanting palace, built in 1851, owes its existence to Hassan Fouad Pasha al-Manasterly, who served as the Governor of Cairo at the time.
While the palace originally encompassed the public halls (selamlik) and the private residence (harem) of the governor, only the public halls have endured the passage of time, as the harem was later replaced by a water station.
One of the palace’s remarkable contemporary roles is as the home of the International Music Centre, hosting a diverse array of musical events throughout the year.
Architecturally, the Manasterly Palace is a masterpiece, characterized by its Ottoman Rococo style. The main hall, adorned with plaster and verdant ornamental motifs, opens to the outside through an elegant marble entrance.
A second hall, positioned to the west, complements the main hall, and adjacent to it are two rectangular rooms complete with attached bathrooms. The palace features a terrace overlooking the Nile, adding to its allure.
Notably, the palace bears a fascinating blend of architectural influences, from the Ottoman Rococo style to a touch of Pharaonic design elements gracing the external entry-front. Its floors, adorned with marble and parquet, enhance its opulent ambiance.
The Baron Empain Palace
The Baron Empain Palace, known as Le Palais Hindou or The Hindu Palace, stands as a remarkable testament to architectural fusion in Heliopolis.
Founded by Baron Edward Louis Joseph Empain, a Belgian businessman awarded the title of “Baron” for his contributions to the Paris Metro and tramway lines connecting Belgium, Northern France, and Holland, this mansion has a rich history.
In 1906, Baron Empain commissioned French architect Ernest Jaspar to create what would become the “Heliopolis style.” Blending Persian and neoclassical European elements, Heliopolis emerged as a cultural hub, attracting people from around the world. The Baron’s palace played a central role in this transformation.
The Hindu Palace served as the residence for Baron Empain, his wife, two sons, and an alleged daughter. Legends suggest the daughter suffered from a medical or mental condition, necessitating her seclusion. Dark rumors of suicide within the palace contributed to its haunted reputation, sparking interest in ghost tourism.
After Baron Empain’s death in 1929 and the 1952 coup in Egypt, the palace fell into disuse. In the 1990s, it became a site for social rebellion, attracting young people who engaged in unauthorized parties and vandalism. Misunderstandings about these activities fueled rumors of satanism and nontraditional values.
Designed by Belgian architect Alexandre Marcel, the palace’s interior was crafted by Georges-Louis Claude. Inspired by North Indian Hindu temples, it was constructed between 1907 and 1911 using reinforced concrete, a symbol of luxury and prestige at the time. The Baron Empain Palace continues to captivate with its unique blend of architectural influences and intriguing history.
Sultana Malak Palace
Sultana Malak’s Palace, situated in the Heliopolis Suburb of Cairo, bears a rich history steeped in architectural splendor and royal connections.
The palace was originally designed by Belgian engineer Édouard Empain as a gift for Sultan Hussein Kamel. However, the Sultan insisted on purchasing it but tragically passed away before finalizing the transaction.
Consequently, ownership was transferred to the New Egypt Housing and Construction Company. They entered into an agreement with Sultana Malak, Sultan Hussein Kamel’s second wife, who leased the palace until 1960 when it was repurposed as a school.
In the year 2000, this exquisite palace was designated an archaeological site among Islamic and Coptic monuments, recognizing its historical significance.
Sultana Malak’s Palace showcases a captivating blend of Islamic and Baroque architectural styles. Elements of Baroque design are evident in the palace’s tower, reminiscent of a minaret, and the Baroque dome atop its main hall. This eclectic mix is further showcased within the palace’s interior rooms and corridors.
The palace’s architecture boasts intricate details, with a basement housing the kitchen and food stores, a first floor adorned with colorful panes and drawings, and a second floor featuring sleeping suites, complete with heaters and mirrors. Sultana Malak’s Palace remains a testament to architectural elegance and historical significance.
The Koubbeh Palace
Koubbeh Palace, also known as Qubbah Palace, is a historic Egyptian palace that serves as the country’s official guest house for visiting dignitaries. The palace’s history is intertwined with Egypt’s monarchy and its transition to a republic.
Originally constructed in the mid-19th century, Koubbeh Palace was purchased by Khedive Ismail in 1866 from his brother Mustafa Fazl Pasha. Located several kilometers north of downtown Cairo, the palace was once surrounded by agricultural fields and rural villages.
During the monarchy, Koubbeh Palace played a significant role in royal celebrations and official functions. Under Khedive Tewfik, it hosted events inspired by the tales of One Thousand and One Nights, royal weddings, and welcomed dignitaries amidst magnificent gardens.
When Khedive Abbas Hilmi II assumed power, the palace became a vital component of Egypt’s officialdom, alongside Cairo’s Abdin Palace.
Upon King Fouad I’s ascension to the throne in 1917, Koubbeh Palace became the official royal residence. King Fouad initiated various improvements to the palace, including the construction of a protective wall, a new gate, and an external garden. A royal train station was also added to facilitate the arrival of visiting dignitaries.
King Farouk continued to use Koubbeh as his residence and kept his personal collections there, which included valuable items such as stamps, coins, medals, and antiquities. However, many of these treasures were auctioned off in 1954.
Following the 1952 revolution and the establishment of the republic, Koubbeh Palace became one of Egypt’s three official presidential palaces, alongside Abdeen Palace in downtown Cairo and Ras Al-Teen Palace in Alexandria.
It hosted important guests, including U.S. President Barack Obama during his visit to Cairo in June 2009. Koubbeh Palace remains a symbol of Egypt’s rich history and its role in hosting esteemed visitors from around the world.
Bayt al-Sinnari
Bayt al-Sinnari, constructed in 1794, stands as a testament to the enduring charm of bourgeois mansions in medieval Cairo. This historical gem, now under the management of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, has been revitalized into a vital cultural hub following a meticulous restoration.
Nestled in the neighborhood of the Al-Sayeda Zainab Mosque, Bayt Al Sinnari is a hidden treasure, accessed via the Monge passage, named after Gaspard Monge, who accompanied Napoleon Bonaparte’s campaign to Egypt.
The mansion’s captivating history traces back to its establishment by Ibrahim Katkhuda al-Sinnari in 1794. During Napoleon’s occupation of Egypt in 1798, the house served as a residence for the members of the Committee of Sciences and Arts, tasked with a systematic study of Egypt, which culminated in the renowned “Description de l’Égypte.”
Notably, Gaspard Monge, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Joseph Fourier were associated with this institution. However, after the French expedition’s departure in 1801, the institute ceased its activities.
From 1917 to 1933, Bayt Al Sinnari housed a private Napoleon museum, offering insights into the French leader’s Egyptian campaign. Subsequently, after undergoing extensive restoration efforts following the 1992 Cairo earthquake, the mansion was revitalized into an influential cultural center, with support from France, Egypt, and UNESCO.
The architectural splendor of Bayt al-Sinnari is characterized by its two distinct sections. The ground floor features reception areas, while the second floor houses private apartments adorned with magnificent mashrabiyya woodwork and a small hammam. The house’s heart lies in its interior courtyard, graced by a central marble fountain, embodying the rich heritage of Cairo’s historic mansions.
Khairy Pasha Palace
Khairy Pasha Palace, a striking neo-Mameluk edifice, graces the historic 113 Qasr El Eyni Street, nestled in the heart of Cairo’s iconic Tahrir Square.
This architectural gem, originally the residence of Khairy Pasha, the Minister of Education during the Khedivate of Egypt, embodies the fusion of neo-Mameluk and European design elements that define the city’s transformation.
Constructed in the 1860s, Khairy Pasha Palace played a pivotal role in the development of the new Downtown Cairo district, signifying a shift northward from the city’s traditional core.
This palace, standing tall and adorned with faux crenellations reminiscent of medieval Islamic architecture, inspired a regional design trend. It seamlessly blended Mamluk revival, Moorish Revival, and other Islamic influences with European styles like Beaux-Arts, Second Empire, and Art Nouveau, reflecting the grand vision of Khedive Ismail, who sought to create a ‘Paris on the Nile.’
In the early 1900s, the palace served as the headquarters of the Egyptian University, known today as Cairo University. However, in 1919, the American Mission in Egypt acquired the Khairy building, transforming it into the original campus of the American University in Cairo (AUC) in 1920. This transition marked the beginning of its mission to enhance Egypt’s culture and modernization.
In 2008, AUC relocated its programs to the ‘AUC New Cairo Campus,’ but the legacy of Khairy Pasha Palace endures as it continues to host the university’s continuing education initiatives. This palace stands as a testament to the enduring interplay between history, culture, and education in the heart of Cairo.
The Saffron Palace
The Saffron Palace, an architectural jewel situated in Cairo’s Abbassiya district on Khalifa Maʽmon Road, holds a rich and storied history within its neo-Gothic and Baroque-inspired walls.
Built in the 1870s under the supervision of Egyptian architect Moghri bey Saad, this splendid palace was commissioned by Khedive Ismail, who sought to emulate the opulence of the Palace of Versailles in France.
Named for the lush saffron plantations that once surrounded it, the palace was originally constructed as a residence but took on more significant roles as history unfolded.
Khedive Ismail later gifted the palace to his ailing mother, Khushiar Hanim, who sought the fresh air it offered during her recovery. The palace witnessed pivotal historical events, including the signing of the 1936 treaty and the entry of British forces into Egypt.
With a blend of neo-Gothic and Baroque styles, the Saffron Palace boasts an ornate facade with semicircular arches, royal crowns, and elegant columns. The interior is equally breathtaking, featuring a grand staircase adorned with copper and gilded decorations. The lead-stained crystal glass ceiling paints a vivid sky overhead.
The palace comprises three main floors and an underground level, with the first floor reserved for receptions, including the main hall, dining room, and additional reception halls. The second floor hosts eight bedrooms, each paired with a reception area and a Turkish bath with marble and colored glass.
The Bayt al-Razzaz Palace
The Bayt al-Razzaz Palace, nestled in the heart of medieval Cairo, is a testament to centuries of architectural and cultural history. This grand mansion, constructed over several centuries from the late 15th to the late 18th century, boasts a staggering 190 rooms across two houses, complemented by courtyards and various utility structures.
Originally built during the Mamluk era, the palace comprises two distinct houses. The first, constructed around 1480 under the rule of Sultan Qaytbay, showcases exquisite mashrabiya windows on its second floor, offering views of the street and the internal courtyard. The Mamluk influence is evident in the ornate doorways, featuring Qaytbay’s cartouche.
The second house, built in the 18th century by the wealthy rice merchant Ahmad Katkhuda al-Razzaz, was likely intended to accommodate a growing family and intricate social connections. These two houses were interconnected in the early 19th century through a marriage contract.
Despite its rich history, the palace was abandoned in the 1960s, falling into disrepair. However, a comprehensive restoration project initiated in the late 1970s, led by the American Research Center in Egypt, revitalized the eastern complex, culminating in its completion in 2007.
Today, the property belongs to the Ministry of State for Antiquities, with plans in place to restore the western complex for office use. It also serves as a hub for local artisans and craftsmen, offering workshops and preserving the heritage of this remarkable structure.
The Gezirah Palace
The Gezirah Palace, a magnificent architectural gem steeped in history, stands proudly on Gezira Island in the Nile, a serene enclave just west of Downtown Cairo.
Commissioned by Khedive Ismail in the late 19th century, this opulent palace was designed to host international dignitaries during the grand opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, a momentous occasion in Egypt’s history.
At the palace’s inaugural ceremony, the world witnessed the debut of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Aida, composed specifically for the Suez Canal’s unveiling, adding to the palace’s storied legacy.
Following a period of financial difficulty, Ismail Pasha sold the palace to Michel Lutfallah, who made it his private residence, giving rise to its alternate name, the Lutfallah Palace.
During the British Protectorate, the palace changed hands once more, becoming the Ghezireh Palace Hotel in 1894. It was even utilized as a hospital during World War I due to its spacious accommodations.
The architectural brilliance of the Gezirah Palace marries neoclassical design with intricate alhambresque interior decorations. European architects of renown, including Julius Franz, Owen Jones, and Carl von Diebitsch, were instrumental in bringing this grand vision to life.
Today, the Gezirah Palace stands at the heart of the Cairo Marriott Hotel complex, nestled between the hotel’s iconic towers on Gezira Island. It continues to enchant visitors with its historical significance and timeless beauty, bridging the past and present.
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