The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is located in the Citadel of Cairo, Egypt. It was built between 1830 and 1848 as a tribute to Muhammad Ali Pasha, who was the ruler of Egypt at that time.

Muhammad Ali Pasha, an Albanian soldier, came to Egypt in 1805 and established his rule, marking the beginning of the Muhammad Ali dynasty. He was considered the founder of modern Egypt and is known for his ambitious architectural projects. The mosque was one of his most noteworthy contributions to the city’s skyline.

The design of the Mosque of Muhammad Ali was inspired by the Ottoman architectural style, featuring a dome and two towering minarets. It was designed by the Turkish architect Yusuf Bushnak and took multiple decades to complete due to various disruptions, including political conflicts and financial constraints.

The interior of the mosque is equally impressive, with a central dome supported by four large arches. The walls are adorned with intricate designs and calligraphy, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. The mosque also houses the tomb of Muhammad Ali Pasha, which is located beneath the central dome.

One of the distinctive features of the mosque is the extensive use of alabaster, a translucent white stone, in its construction. The exterior walls and the courtyard are predominantly made of alabaster, giving the mosque its nickname, the Alabaster Mosque. The use of this material reflects Muhammad Ali’s desire to create a unique and visually striking structure.

Today, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali is one of the most important landmarks in Cairo and a popular tourist attraction. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city from the Citadel’s elevated location. It also continues to be an active place of worship, accommodating a large number of worshippers during religious festivities.

Overall, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali is a testament to the architectural prowess of Muhammad Ali Pasha and serves as a symbol of his reign and contribution to Egypt’s history.