Historic Cairo, Bāb al-Wazīr (the Minister's Gate)

Bāb al-Wazīr (the Minister's Gate)

Cairo was called the citadel or tabia or forte, i.e. stronghold. It looked like a square; 1200m2 in length and 1100m2 in width. It was surrounded with El Bahr El Azeim (the great sea) from the east, the gulf from the west, from the north gardens extended to Mataria and the mount Gabal El Guishi from the south. 

The Gates of Cairo, Bābs al-Cairo, were gates at portals in the city walls of medieval Islamic Cairo, within the present day city of Cairo. Many gate surrounds were carved artistic elements and embellished decorative features, representing the ruler's and city's victories, power, faith, and influence. Cairo's medieval city gates include Bāb al-Wazīr (the Minister's Gate), opened in 1341 by the wazīr (vizier—minister of state) Najm al-Dīn Muḩammad; still remains.

Bab-elwazier Street perspective

It is one of Cairo outside gates in the last wall that was established by Saladin at the distance located between El Maherouk Gate and El-Jabel Citadel. It was opened by Minister Negm El-Din Mohamed, known as the Minister of Baghdad at that time.

He was Minister to King El Mansour Mohamed Ben Kalwori in 1341, that is why it is called Bab El-Wazir. There is also Bab El-Wazir Street and Bab El-Wazir Cemetery. It still exists till now.

Bāb al-Wazīr (the Minister's Gate)

The upgrading project consist of four buildings gathered to make urban space 

• Jair Building
• Hussami Palace
• Part of the Blue Mosque
• The walls of Cairo

   

Bāb al-Wazīr (the Minister's Gate)