Old Cairo, Mohamed Aly Mosque and Khan el Khalili Bazaars

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Pick up at your hotel at 7.30am. We start our day by driving to Old Cairo.

First stop:
The Hanging Church is The Hanging Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and contains sanctuaries to her and Saints John the Baptist. It is also referred to as the Suspended Church or Al-Moallaqa. It is called the Hanging Church because it was built on the southern gate of the Roman Fortress. Logs of palm trees and layers of stones were constructed above the ruins of the Roman fortress to be used as a fundament. 

The Hanging Church is a unique church and has a wooden roof in the shape of Noah’s ark. From the 7th century to the 13th century, the Hanging Church served as the residence of the Coptic Patriarch. Al-Moallaqa has witnessed important elections and religious ceremonies. The Church as we see it today was probably built during the patriarchate of Isaac (690–692).

Second stop:

We will continue to the Citadel of Salah el Din from 1198, and visit the mosque of Mohamed Ali. The mosque was built on the site of old Mamluk buildings in Cairo's Citadel between 1830 and 1848, although not completed until the reign of Said Pasha in 1857. The architect was Yusuf Bushnak from Istanbul and its model was the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in that city. 

Third stop:

We end our day visiting the famous bazaars of Khan el Khalili. This is the largest old market in the Middle East, lasting from the 1600th century. In the tiny alleyways, there are hundreds of shops and booths where you can watch blacksmiths work precious metals. Also be on the lookout for leather goods and woodwork inlaid with camel bone and mother-of-pearl. Bargaining is the norm here and a “must do”. 

 Drop off at your hotel.

Inclusions

• Entrance fees to Mohamed Aly Mosque, Rifai and Sultan Hassan Mosques 
• Qualified English, Spanish, or French guide
• Hotel or location pickup and drop-off
• Private tour

 Exclusions

• Food and extra drinks
• Gratuities

• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
• Primary language for your guide is English; if you request any other language, please make it clear upon reservation. Available languages: French, Spanish, Arabic
• Dress code is smart casual
• A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
• This is a private tour. Only your group will participate