Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque

The Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi in Anfushi is Alexandria's most important mosque, raised over the tomb of a Sufi scholar who died in 1287. The current building dates from 1929–1945, and entry is free outside prayer times.

Alexandria has no more important mosque than Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi. It is built over the grave of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi himself, a Sufi scholar from Murcia in Al-Andalus who made his home in the city and died here in 1287.

Some kind of shrine has marked his tomb for centuries. The building you see now was designed by the Italian architect Mario Rossi and completed in the 1940s: an ornate octagon of cream-coloured stone, crowned with tall domes and a slim minaret.

On Fridays, through Ramadan and at the saint's annual mawlid festival, the square outside overflows with worshippers.

What to see

• The octagonal prayer hall under carved stone domes
• The shrine over the saint's tomb
• The square in front, at its busiest on Fridays and in Ramadan

Visiting

• Opening hours: daily, outside prayer times
• Tickets: free
• Dress: long trousers or skirt and covered shoulders; women should carry a scarf
• Nearby: Citadel of Qaitbay, Alexandria Corniche