The current Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque was built in 1943 in Mamluk Revival style on the site of earlier shrines dating back to the 13th century, honoring Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, an Andalusian-born Sufi scholar who settled in Alexandria and became one of the city's most venerated religious figures after his death in 1287. The mosque's four domes and tall minaret dominate the skyline of the Anfushi district near the Eastern Harbor, and the design draws on Andalusian and Mamluk architectural traditions, reflecting al-Mursi's North African and Iberian origins. The interior features an octagonal prayer hall beneath the central dome, marble columns, and geometric stone inlay work typical of mid-20th-century revivalist mosque architecture in Egypt. The mosque remains an active place of worship and a focal point of Alexandria's Sufi tradition, drawing pilgrims to al-Mursi's tomb located within the complex. It sits within a small square surrounded by other historic mosques and shrines, forming a cluster of religious architecture in the old fishing quarter of Anfushi.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Exteriors viewable at all times; interior visits by non-worshippers restricted around prayer times |
| Address | Anfushi, Alexandria, Egypt |
Why it matters
As the burial site and namesake shrine of a revered 13th-century Sufi scholar, the mosque is a central landmark of Alexandria's Islamic and Sufi heritage and one of the city's most recognizable skyline features.
Location
Anfushi, Alexandria, Egypt
31.2131, 29.8851 View on map
Highlights
- Central octagonal prayer hall beneath the mosque's largest dome
- Andalusian-influenced Mamluk Revival architectural style from the 1943 rebuild
- Tomb of Sufi scholar Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi within the mosque complex
- Cluster of smaller historic shrines and mosques in the surrounding square
- Tall minaret visible from much of the Anfushi waterfront
Tips for visiting
- Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the prayer hall
- Non-Muslim visitors can typically view the interior outside of prayer times
- Women should bring a headscarf, sometimes available to borrow at the entrance
- Pair the visit with the nearby Citadel of Qaitbay, a short walk along the corniche
Frequently asked questions
Can non-Muslims visit the mosque?
Yes, visitors of any faith may view the exterior and, outside prayer times, generally the interior as well, dressed modestly.
How long does a visit take?
Viewing the exterior and main prayer hall typically takes 15-20 minutes.
Is the mosque accessible to wheelchairs?
The main prayer hall is on ground level and generally accessible, though some peripheral areas have steps.