Muhammad Ali Palace in Shubra, Cairo, is a stunning 19th-century landmark blending Islamic and European design. Built by Muhammad Ali Pasha (1808–1821), it features ornate halls, elegant fountains, and Egypt’s first modern lighting system. Notable highlights include the Fountain Villa and Waterwheel Tower, showcasing Ottoman baroque and Islamic artistry. After extensive restoration beginning in 2018, the palace is set to reopen as a vibrant cultural attraction, preserving its legacy as a symbol of Egypt’s architectural and historical grandeur.
Muhammad Ali Palace in Shubra is an absolute masterpiece of perfection in combining celestial elements of art and architecture with the blessed beauty of nature. The palace is a true model of magnificence that merges the beautiful European aesthetics with marvelous Islamic architecture. The palace stands as a highly complete example of Egypt’s multicultural and historical nature, which gained the title of Paradise Palace.
The palace has a lot of offers from incredible from incredible facts to thrilling tales about one of the most glamorous times in the modern history of Egypt. The palace is an extraordinary love letter to the heavenly golden capital city of Cairo. It offers everyone the magnificent opportunity to open their eyes to some of the most precious artifacts of royal art and glorious architecture that hold great meaning and ever greater tales to tell.
The palace was created by the powerful Muhammad Ali Pasha (1220-1264 AH \ AD 1805-1848), where the construction started around 1223 AH / AD 1808 in the newly established suburb of Shubra that was completed around 1237 AH / AD 1821 across an area of 150 acres. The palace underwent several alterations in the 1870s, were Muhammad Ali hired several Armenian and Turkish architects to design his palace construction, which would follow the unique architectural style of garden palaces, which are found in Turkey.
The creation of the palace lasted until 1922, when a series of restorations followed. A man by the name Zulfikar Katkhuda supervised the building of the palace, which was created in a new style and design. The architectural style combined European and Islamic influences, mainly from the palaces found on the shores of the Bosporus Strait and the Marmara Sea in Turkey. Notably, the palace witnessed the first modern electric lighting system in Egypt in 182,0, which was based on a powerful gas laboratory found near the Nile River.
Unfortunately, much of the palace was destroyed during various periods, including during World War I and the 1952 Revolution. Efforts to restore the palace began in 2000 and are nearing completion under the authority of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. The remaining buildings are known for their exquisite materials and rich decorations, and the main building, El Haramlik, was constructed in white marble and featured extravagant furnishings.
The palace was restored and renovated many times by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture throughout history, which was opened in 2005. Following its closure in 2011, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in collaboration with the Armed Forces Engineering Authority, recognized the historical and artistic significance of the site and initiated restoration and development efforts in 2018. The restoration work encompassed improvements to the floors and walls, enhancing the picturesque lake, preserving inscriptions and decorations, and establishing a connection between the palace and the Nile pier to facilitate visitor access.
Muhammad Ali Palace is found in the heart of Shubra which is a vibrant and populous district in the capital city of Cairo that lies on the east bank of the Nile River north of Bulaq in the vicinity of the Muqqattam hills on the southern part of Cairo, which is easily accessible from various sections of Cairo.
Mohammed Ali wished to make his palace in a very calm district away from the grasp of the mamluks and their evil plots, so the palace was made with a great sense of security. Everyone can use public transportation, such as buses or the Cairo Metro, to reach Shubra and then take a short walk to the palace. From Cairo International Airport, visitors can use taxis or private car services to reach Shubra and this golden palace.
The architectural masterpiece of the palace is a harmonious blend of European decorative flair and the soulful essence of Islamic architectural planning. The design emulates the serene layout of a mosque courtyard, where four shades gracefully encircle a splendid fountain, evoking a sense of tranquility and grandeur. The architectural plan of this glorious palace was centered in the core of a gigantic garden that held marvelous clusters of epic buildings that were surrounded by a great wall. The palace is made of the Saray al-fasqiyya (Fountain Palace), Saraya al-Ekama (Residential Palace), and saray al-gabalaya, plus there is a phenomenal boat harbour, bird tower, Shubra Stables, and Hydraulic wheel (Saqqyia) which offer water to the palace and its blessed gardens.
The artistic style of these palaces is based on many 19th-century French, Italian, Greek, and Armenian aesthetics. It was the first building in Egypt to utilize a modern lighting system by order from Muhammad Ali Pahsa, who ordered an English engineer known as Galloway to install lighting fixtures in this incredible palace. The overall architectural design has a lot of Turkish features that resemble the palace of Topkapi. A number of structures were constructed across the garden, which were known as Saraya or hans in Turkish and kiosks in English, that has Latin roots.
The first structure that was made in the palace complex was a small villa that acted as the personal residence of Mohammed Ali. A true engineering marvel lies within the palace's embrace - the Saqia Tower. Ingeniously designed, it fulfills a multifaceted purpose. Towering at a considerable height, it harnesses the force of water to power the enchanting Fisqiya fountain, while ingeniously drawing water from the Nile to sustain the palace's needs.
This ingenious system channels the water through a tunnel and then into four basins, where it undergoes purification before finally flowing into the Sekiya basin, only to emerge once again through the intricate irrigation channels, nurturing the surrounding grounds.
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The Palace was established as a golden residence for the members of the foreign ambassadors, which was equipped with a lighting system from the inside, as the first of its kind at the time. The palace was made of 13 parts, but the only remaining part includes the reception area, the fountain kios, the basin area, and the garden, which acts as a lively museum. The interior design plan of the palace is made of a great central pavilion that is surrounded by a number of four rooms.
Inside the palace lies one of the most magical chambers, the drawing room, which acted as a dining room until Louis-Philippe of France brought a magical billiard table, which was a gift to Mohammed Ali. All the rooms were heavily decorated, plus the walls of these rooms, which are ornamented with wood panels, very bright colored natural scenes, and glorious inscriptions for the names of Mohammad Ali, plus other great members of his family.
The section of the palace is highly glorified for its magnificence and high ceiling, plus the colonnades that support and add a magical touch. These rooms have miraculous wooden floors which are covered with phenomenal Persian carpets.
The Waterwheel Tower is the oldest building in the Palace of Mohamed Ali in Shubra, built in 1811. It is a substantial structure made of strong stones and stands 130 meters east of the Fountain Villa amidst fruit and vegetable gardens. The tower's eastern façade is 40 meters long, and the southern façade is 21 meters long. Inside the tower, there are four water wells with waterwheels that were operated using machines instead of animals, unlike the common practice in Egypt at that time.
Water from the tower flowed through channels above its roof and collected in reservoirs connected to pipes. This water was then transferred to the palace and gardens. An ascending slope next to the southern façade lifted the machines used for operating the waterwheels. On the eastern side, the tower had four doors leading to rooms with views of the rear water reservoir. These rooms also stored tools for the regular cleaning of the water wells and waterwheels.
The Fountain Villa was constructed in 1821 and is located 430 meters from the Nile and 230 meters from the Jabalaya Villa. Designed by the French consul in Egypt, a close friend of Mohamed Ali, and adorned by Armenian engineer Yusuf Hakikan, the villa is at the center of the complex's gardens. The villa's structure is rectangular-shaped, with multiple doors leading to different fountains featuring strong marble columns. Four rooms with marvelous colored glass windows are visible from the corners. The unique interior design includes a central block surrounded by various sections.
The central block holds a large water basin covered in white marble, featuring a fountain with crocodile statues from which water flows. Circular fountains adorned with fish designs are located at each corner of the basin. The center fountains have statues of standing lions, while the gallery above showcases drawings of the Egyptian military fleet and portraits of Roman and Greek thinkers and philosophers. The gallery's ceiling is decorated with marvelous oil paintings, reflecting the Ottoman baroque style predominant during the palace's construction. Additionally, the Fountain Villa boasts four additional halls with astonishing decorations.
The walnut hall is notable for its Turkish walnut wood-lined walls and floor, along with a large mirror decorated in Moroccan and Andalusian styles. The ceiling features baroque-style drawings in various golden colors. The Arabian Hall displays green paintings of flowers and roses on the walls, complemented by wooden arabesque screens on the ceiling. Certain sections of this hall bear the names of Mohamed Ali's family and were redecorated during the reigns of Sultan Said Pasha and Abbas Pasha, Mohamed Ali's successors.
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The restoration and development project aims to showcase the historical and cultural significance of the Palace of Muhammad Ali, providing an enhanced experience for visitors and preserving this valuable heritage for future generations. The countdown has begun for the opening of the Palace of Muhammad Ali in Shubra Al-Khaimah, a rare archaeological masterpiece in Qalyubia, Egypt, with global significance. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is leading the project to restore and rehabilitate the palace in cooperation with the Engineering Authority, following a protocol signed in 2017. The restoration work includes various parts of the palace, such as the Al-Fascia Palace building, the throne room, the family rooms, the garden, the tourist walkway, and the marina.
Special services have been provided for visitors with special needs, including umbrellas, seats, and explanatory boards to enhance their experience during the visit. The restoration progress is significant, with the Jabaliya kiosk building already completed, and the Al-Fasqih Palace building reaching 99% completion. Works on the tourist walkway leading to the palace are about 98% finished. Additionally, an indigo marina for boats and a pedestrian bridge have been constructed to transport tourists to the palace.
The Qalyubia Governorate also plays a vital role in the project, with 98% of the painting works for nearby buildings completed. Efforts are ongoing to finish the remaining facades in the surrounding area. Moreover, road development leading to the palace is progressing, with surface layers completed on Mohamed Ali Park and the Nile Corniche Road.
Muhammad Ali Palace in Shubra stands as an architectural marvel and an important symbol of Egypt's history and cultural heritage. With its fascinating blend of architectural styles and its association with the renowned ruler, the palace attracts numerous visitors seeking to explore Egypt's rich past.
The restoration efforts undertaken by the Egyptian government and heritage conservation organizations have ensured that the palace continues to awe and inspire future generations, serving as a timeless testament to the legacy of Muhammad Ali Pasha and the magnificence of Egypt's historical landmarks. We deliver excellent Egypt vacations to epic sites, accompanied by the luxury and comfort of the best Nile River cruises and immersive cultural experiences, so everyone can enjoy the most enchanting travel experience.
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The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.
If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.
Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.
The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.
You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.
You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.
Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.
The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.
There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.
Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.
The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.
The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.
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