Civil architecture in
the Mamluk era
Under the supervision of
Dr. Shaimaa Abd El-Tawab Sayed
Basma Samer Mabrouk
Asmaa Sayed Hemmamy
Doaa Sayed Mohamed
Sameh Reda Abd El-Aziz
Samia Hany El Khodary
Introduction to Civil Architecture
in the Mamluk Era
Civil architecture in the Mamluk period stands as one
of the most prominent aspects of the urban
development witnessed in the Arab region during the
Middle Ages.
This era, which began in the 13th century and lasted
until the 16th century, is marked by the introduction of
unique architectural models that reflect the flourishing
of the Mamluk state across various fields, including
architecture.
The forms of civil architecture in this period varied,
encompassing mosques, schools, houses,
caravanserais, and other buildings that served social,
cultural, and economic purposes.
Introduction to Civil Architecture
in the Mamluk Era
Mamluk architecture is distinguished by its innovative
construction techniques, where a variety of materials
such as stone, wood, and stained glass were used.
Additionally, decorative elements blended both luxury
and practicality.
The Mamluk houses, in particular, reflected the unique
characteristics of Mamluk society, focusing on
comfort and privacy, as seen in the use of courtyards,
mashrabiyas, and intricately decorated windows.
Introduction to Civil Architecture
in the Mamluk Era
Civil architecture in the Mamluk period demonstrates
how architectural art was influenced by social,
political, and cultural factors.
This era is considered a cornerstone that contributed
significantly to the development of Islamic
architecture in the following centuries.
Introduction
Mamluk architecture is considered one of the finest
periods in Islamic architectural history, characterized
by significant developments in urban and residential
construction.
The Mamluks ruled Egypt and the Levant from the
13th century until the early 16th century.
One of the most prominent features of this era was
civil architecture, especially residential buildings.
Schools in Mamluk era
Historical background
With the Ayyubid Sultan Salah al-Din after his
conquered Egypt the Madrasa became the second
educational institute after the mosque and then it
became a complex institution which fulfil both
requirements the religious and the educational.
The establishment of schools in the Mamluk era has
played a major role in the development of Islamic
architecture, as well as a major impact on the
prosperity of scientific life.
In Egypt, schools have been known since the late
Fatimid era, spread during the Ayyubid era, and
abundant during the Mamluk Sultanate.
Historical background
The establishment of schools in Egypt in the Mamluk
era had a major impact in establishing the scientific
and cultural renaissance in that era.
It was usual throughout the Mamluk era for the Sultan’s
monuments to have one or more schools, and this
saying was consistent with most of the Mamluk sultans,
beginning with Al-Mu’izz Aybak and ending with Sultan
Al-Ghuri.
Five types of plans common
for the Madrasa buildings in Mamluk eras as follows:
During Bahrite Mamluk Period:
• First Type:
Open Court and Four Covered Areas: in which four
covered iwans surrounded a central courtyard as in
The Mosque of Zahir Baybars.
• Second Type:
Collegiate Mosque Madrasa with Four Iwans: in which
the plan includes an open court surrounded by four
iwans as in Sultan Qalawun and Sultan Hasan madrasa.
Five types of plans common
for the Madrasa buildings in Mamluk eras as follows:
During Burgi Mamluk Period:
•First Type: Small Mosque, in which the mosque included
a covered area - durqa'a – in front of the qibla iwan as in
Aytmish al-Bagasi Madrasa.
• Second Type: Mosque With Four Iwans, in which a
central court onto which opens four iwans, also there
were apartments for the residence of rectors (shaikhs),
and students, also in which a Kuttab for teaching young
orphans were incorporated together with the mosque, as
in Khantqah of al-Zahir Barquq.
•Third Type: Two Grand Iwans, Two Smaller Iwans, and A
Durqa'a, in which four Iwans surrounded the Durqa'a. The
two grand iwans are the Qibla iwan and the opposite
Iwan, but other two iwans are the two smaller iwans
(sadlas), as in Sultan Qaytbay Complex.
The design model of the Education Spaces
in Madrasa Institutions
Teaching process inside the Madrasa buildings was hold
in two main places: the courtyard and the Iwans, the
following is the design model of these two architectural
education spaces
The Design Model of the Courtyard (Sahn)
Five criteria form the design model of the
courtyard in Madrasa buildings, as follows:
1- The courtyard is regular geometric shape
(square or rectangle)
2- Entering the courtyard can only from the bent corridor
which connects from one side with the courtyard and
from the other with the entrance.
3- The courtyard placed in the heart of the building to
acts as a generator of form, and the whole organization of
the building form starts from its center extending
outwards, so it controlled the process of “place making”
in form generation beside its role in generating a
homogeneous relationship between the urban context
and the building compositions.
The Design Model of the Courtyard (Sahn)
Five criteria form the design model of the
courtyard in Madrasa buildings, as follows:
4- According to space syntax in courtyard models and taking into account the courtyard was the
backbone of the religious buildings; the Islamic architecture produced two types of places making
relating to the courtyard: the opened and the enclosed.
5- Four iwans surrounded a courtyard was the geometric composition which converted the building
composition to a hollow cube and emphasized on the inward design criteria.
The Design Model of the Qibla Iwan (Praying Hall)
There are four criteria form the design model of the Qibla
iwan, as follows:
1- The geometric analysis of Qibla iwan reveals that it is a
covered hall opened from one side -its entrance wall- on
the courtyard. It was proliferated in the Sassanian world but
in the Ayubids period the Iwans became a basic
component in the design of religious building.
2- Functionally Qibla iwans used for prayer or educational
space, but geometrically the entrance wall of it always had
one main vertical articulation axis around it a pointed or
semi-circular arch growth to form the three-dimensional
space composition.
3- To serve the religious function (as a prayer hall) and
achieving the environmental design criteria the Islamic
architecture designer generated three common types of
Qibla iwans: a pillared rectangular area, a vaulted iwans and
a square-domed space.
The Design Model of the Qibla Iwan (Praying Hall)
4- In Islamic architecture the Qibla iwans always take a
square or rectangle shape in its two-dimension
composition and a cube in its volumetric three-dimension
composition.
The Design Model of the Qibla Iwan (Praying Hall)
4- In Islamic architecture the Qibla iwans always take a
square or rectangle shape in its two-dimension
composition and a cube in its volumetric three-dimension
composition.
Examples of schools established in Egypt
in the Mamluk era:
Al-Zaheria school:
It was established by Sultan King al-Zahir Baybars
al-Bunduqdari on the ruins of the tent hall, one of
the halls of the Grand Fatimid Palace, next to the
Salihiya Madrasa.
Examples of schools established in Egypt
in the Mamluk era:
Al-Mansouria school:
The Mansouriya School is attributed to its
founder, King Al-Mansur Qalawun Al-Salhi, known
as Al-Alfi.
Examples of schools established in Egypt
in the Mamluk era:
Al-Nasriya school:
It is located on Al-Muizz Lidin Allah Street Bein Al-
Qasrain, east of the Al-Mansuriyya Dome.
The beginning of construction is attributed to
Sultan King Al-Adil Zain Al-Din Katbugha Al-
Mansuri, and its construction was completed by
Al-Nasir Muhammad Ibn Qalawun after he took
office.
Examples of schools established in Egypt
in the Mamluk era:
Al-Zahria Al-Barquqi school
The Barquqi Madrasa is considered the first
architectural facility in the Circassian Mamluk
state. Sultan al-Zahir Barquq, the first king of the
Circassians, decided to replace the zakat khan
Bein Al-Qasreen and establish a school in its
place. He laid the foundation stone for the
establishment of a school and a khanqah known
as the “Madrassa and the Barquqi Khanqah.”
Toilets In Mamluk era
Key Characteristics of
Mamluk Toilets
Architecture:
Mamluk toilets were often small
enough closed spaces
Private vs public toilets:
Private is more luxurious vs public
is efficient and functional
Water supply:
Drainage systems _Flush
Mechanisms:
In the Nile it carries waste away
Construction materials:
Stone and marble
Design and aesthetic
Minimalism
Cultural context:
Hygiene and Purification
Islamic influence:
Religious practice
Examples of mosques:
1. The Sultan Hassan Mosque
2. The Qalawun Complex
Terms for toilets
1. Al hammam
2. Al-bul:
Personal sanitation in homes
3. Al-madra:
Rural or less formal facilities
Religious and cultural influences
on sanitation
Cleanliness as Half of Faith : Wudu
Prophet instructions on Toilet
Influences from Earlier Islamic Periods
- Mamluks built upon systems developed
during Abbasid Caliphate like Baghdad
Key archaeological findings related
to Mamluk era Sanitation
in Egypt
1. Latrines and toilets Remains in Mamluk Cairo :
The Mamluk quarter of Cairo
2. Public Latrines and Bathhouses :
The Bayt al-Munshi hammam
3. Mamluk Palace Latrines :
The Qalawun complex in Cairo
4. Drainage System :
Excavations along the streets of old Cairo
5. Bathhouse complexes:
The Hammam al-Nahhasin in Cairo
Palaces in the Mamluk era
Palaces in Mamluk era
The Mamluk era left many architectural masterpieces
that considered a miracle of urban beauty.
It is certain that the Mamluk period (1260-1516 AD)
was the golden period in the history of civil
architecture in Egypt.
The decorative elements reached their peak in terms
of richness, diversity and creativity.
Splendor and beauty appeared in the architecture of
the palaces.
The Mamluk palaces expressed the life of luxury a
that some princes and the rich people lived.
Beshtak Palace
One of the most important architectural
examples of Mamluk palaces in Cairo, which
contains elements of distinct Mamluk
architecture, is “Bashtak Palace,” which was
established by Prince Sayf al-Din Bashtak al-
Nasiri, one of the archaeological princes of al-
Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, and whose
construction dates back to the year 740
AH/1339 AD.
Beshtak Palace
In the past, the palace was inhabited by Prince
Badr al-Din Bektash, and later Prince Bashtak
bought it from the heirs. Prince Bashtak added to
the palace the spaces that surrounded it, and after
completion He hated the building, so he sold it.
The Al-Fajl Mosque is attached to the palace, and
it has two entrances, one of which overlooks Al-
Mu’izz Street, and the second overlooks Qurmuz
Street.
The palace consists of two floors, the ground floor
contains a hall, a stable, and a servants’ room, and
the upper floor contains a hall, a stable, and a
servants’ room.
Description of the palace
The palace consists of three floors, the ground floor
contains a hall, stables, granaries, and servants’ rooms.
The second floor includes a celebration hall and
bedrooms, while the third floor was allocated to the
harem, but it was demolished.
The main hall of the palace is preceded by an open
roof, to the left of which is a room leading to the hall.
The main one has a wooden ceiling decorated with
wooden pieces, and in the middle, there is a fountain
made of colored marble to moisten the atmosphere
with its flying water while the prince sits and his
visitors.
Description of the palace
The palace has three facades, the first overlooking Al-
Mu'izz Street.
The second façade overlooks the Qurmuz Trail, and
has a number of windows covered with metal screens.
It also includes a gate leading to the palace.
The third facade, on the southwestern side of the
palace, overlooks the neighborhood of the judge’s
house.
The Palace is a center
for artistic creativity
The Egyptian Ministry of Culture sought to benefit
from these ancient palaces and houses in Cairo by
transforming them into artistic and cultural centers
and arenas for creativity that seek to raise artistic,
intellectual and cultural awareness among followers
and those interested.
Wekalas during the Mamluk era
Photo credit: Georg Macco (German, 1863-1933)
The Orange Seller, Outside Bab Zuwayla, Cairo, c. 1907
Wekala: A Trade and Residential Hub
The Wekala, a distinctive type of
multipurpose service building, served
as both a trade center and, in many
instances, a hotel.
Wekala: Historical Context
The wekala is also known by several other names, including
Caravanserais Qaysariyya, Funduk, and Khan, each reflecting its
role as a vital hub for trade and hospitality in various cultural
contexts.
The term "wekala" derives from "wakil," meaning a representative.
In this context, a state-appointed agent determined the value
and taxes of imported goods based on their type and weight
before they were distributed in the market (suq).
The concept of the Wekala began during the Fatimid era,
initiated by the vizier Al-Mamoun Al-Batahi. By the Mamluk
period, they were commissioned by princes and sultans.
Wekala: A Trade and Residential Hub
What sets the Wekala apart?
It was not merely a showroom for selling goods;
it also functioned as a storage facility for traders
and merchants, providing them with a comfortable
place to stay close to their business operations and
their families if needed.
Wekala: A Trade and Residential Hub
Typically, these buildings had two primary
functions: commercial and residential.
They bear similarities to caravanserais,
acting as bustling hubs for transient
travelers engaged in trade.
Wekalas are regarded as significant civil
architectural structures, primarily serving
economic and commercial purposes.
Wekala: A Trade and Residential Hub
By facilitating long-term stays for merchants
conducting business in the city, the Wekala
played a crucial role in supporting trade
activities.
Furthermore, it contributed to the economic
vitality of the area, offering essential services that
bolstered the livelihoods of merchants and
enhanced the overall trading environment.
Wekala: Structure and Layout
A typical Wekala comprises four/five floors:
1. Showroom (El Hawneet)
2. Storage areas,
3. Duplex apartments, with the top floor
usually designated for the female
members of the household referred
to as the rabaa.
This is indicated by the presence of mashrabiyya
—an architectural element that allows residents
to see outside without being seen.
The storage area is referred to as El Hawasel
in Arabic.
Wekala: Structure and Layout
The central paved courtyard is a common feature, while the showrooms, known as el hawaneet
or small shops, display products.
Wekalas often have two or more entrances: one leading to the main courtyard and showrooms,
and the other to the private residential unit for the trader and their family. Some Wekalas include
additional spaces for prayer.
Wekalat al-Ghouri:
Wekalat al-Ghouri is a notable example of the
architectural and commercial heritage from the
Mamluk period in Cairo, Egypt.
The lower two levels are made of stone, while the
upper levels are constructed from agar brick.
The entrance to the courtyard features a grand
door set within an intricately designed trilobite
arch, creating an impressive focal point.
• Location:
Al-Tablita Street, Al-Azhar
The Wekala is part of a larger complex that
includes a madrasa and a mausoleum. Also it is • Commissioned by:
currently one of the best perserved models of a El Sultan al-Ashraf Abu al-Nasr Qansuah
mamluk Wekalas.
• Date of Construction:
909 AH / 1503/4 AD
Wekalat al-Ghouri:
The Wekala is part of a larger complex that
includes a madrasa and a mausoleum. Also it
is currently one of the best perserved models
of a mamluk Wekalas.
Currently it hosts cultural auenthic showsn
Wekalat Qait Bay or Wikala al-Dashisha
• Location:
Right of the entrance of Bab al-Nasr, in the direction
of Gamaliyya Street, Cairo, Egypt
• Commissioned by:
Sultan Abu Al-Nasr Sayf ad-Din Al-Ashraf Qaitbay
• Date of Construction:
885 AH / 1481 AD
Wekalat Qait Bay or Wikala al-Dashisha
Sultan Qaitbay was the 18th Burji Mamluk sultan,
renowned for his contributions to art and
architecture during his 30-year reign.
It is built primarily using stone and brick,
showcasing the craftsmanship of the period.
As part of Sultan Qait Bay's endowment system
known as the Waqf, this initiative aimed to
generate revenue to purchase dashisha (ground
grain) for distribution to the poor in Medina, Hijaz.
Wekalat Prince Qawson:
Wekalat Prince Qawson is another significant
example of Mamluk architecture in Cairo.
• Location:
Bab al-Nasr Street, extending from Al-Gamaleya
Street, near Wekalat Qaitbay
• Commissioned by:
Prince Sayed al-Din Qusun al-Saqi al-Nasiri
• Date of Construction:
742 AH / 1341 AD (1326-1341)
Wekalat Prince Qawson:
The Wekala no longer exists, but its main entrance remains, featuring a founding text that includes
the name of Prince Qawson and his cupbearer's blazon, symbolized by a cup.
Notable Wekalat During the Mamluk Era:
One notable Wekala outside Cairo is Wekalat
AlJadawi in Esna, constructed in 1792 AD
during the late Mamluks, remaining
descendants of the significant political figures
during the Ottoman occupation, by a man
called Hassan Bek El Jidawi.
Wekala from another Eras
During the Ottoman era, even large traders
could establish their own Wekalas, such as
Wekalat Jamal al-Din al-Dhahabi. During the
Mamluk era, trade was vital, and many well-
known Wekalas were established in Cairo
Wekalas facilitated trade by providing
smooth accommodations for international
traders, significantly boosting the trade
industry.
.
Wekala from another Eras
Wekalas played a key role in the market by
distributing various products. New products, such
as coffee, were introduced to the market.
For example, Wekalat Bazarah, also known as
Wekalat Al-Kaykhia, was established during the
Ottoman era. Initially focused on the sale of wood, it
underwent a transformation when Muhammad
Bazaraa acquired it, shifting its specialty to Yemeni
coffee.
Another example is Wekalet Kahla is renowned for
distributing Nabulsi soap across Egypt.
Both Wekalas are located in Gamelya
Homes in the Mamluk Period
Interior Design of Homes:
Mamluk homes featured a simple yet practical interior layout, often centered
around a courtyard (a central open space) surrounded by rooms.
This courtyard played an important role in daily life, used for social gatherings.
Iwan (Architectural Porticoes):
These were large, open spaces used for sitting and socializing.
The ceilings of these iwans were often decorated
with beautiful geometric designs, while the walls
featured intricate mosaics.
Focus on Privacy
Privacy was a significant aspect of Mamluk homes.
The main door was narrow, making it difficult
to see inside.
Windows were covered with decorative iron grills,
ensuring privacy while still allowing light and air to
enter.
Materials Used
Stone:
The primary material for building the outer walls
and some interior sections of Mamluk homes.
Wood:
Wood was commonly used for doors, windows, and
internal surfaces.
Stained Glass:
Stained glass was used in windows, giving homes a
unique and aesthetic appearance.
Decorations and Ornamentation:
Mamluk architecture heavily featured intricate
decorations and mosaics, especially on walls
and ceilings.
Gypsum was used to cover and decorate the
surfaces.
The use of mashrabiya (decorative wooden
balconies) was a hallmark of Mamluk homes,
allowing privacy and airflow.
Architectural Styles in
Mamluk Homes
1. Traditional Mamluk Homes: 2. Luxury Homes:
Traditional homes had flat roofs and small Some of the wealthier Mamluk families lived
windows, designed to suit the hot climate in luxurious homes, characterized by refined
of Egypt and the Levant. The rooms were details and elaborate decorations. These
usually not highly decorated, but the homes were typically located in upscale
courtyards and iwans were the standout areas of the cities.
features.
The Influence of Mamluk
Architecture on Social Life
1. Social Stratification:
Mamluk homes reflected the social hierarchy of the
time. The homes of the elite were larger and more
elaborately decorated, while the homes of the poor
were simpler and smaller.
2. Architectural Styles and Social Needs:
Mamluk homes were designed to meet the needs
of social life, offering privacy, comfort, and space
for family gatherings and social functions.
Famous Mamluk Homes in Egypt
Bayt al-Suhaymi (Cairo): Bayt al-Kritliya (Cairo):
This house is one of the best examples of Located in the historic Hussein district, this
Mamluk architecture in Cairo. It features a house showcases the use of stone and wood,
traditional layout with a central courtyard along with intricate architectural details. The
surrounded by rooms and iwans. The house design focuses on privacy and security for the
includes beautifully decorated wooden Mamluk family.
mashrabiya and mosaic-covered walls.
Famous Mamluk Homes in Egypt
Bayt Al Sinnari (Cairo)
This house is known for its beautiful design
and exceptional decorations. It includes
fine architectural details and Mamluk-style
mosaics that cover the walls and ceilings.
Levant Mamluk architecture
Some of the most famous Mamluk architectural
homes outside Egypt are located in regions like the
Levant and Palestine, where the Mamluks left a
clear architectural imprint. Here are some notable
examples:
Levant Mamluk architecture
Khan As'ad Pasha in Damascus (Syria):
Khan As'ad Pasha is one of the most famous
Mamluk buildings in Damascus.
This landmark is a prime example of Mamluk
architecture outside Egypt. Built in the 16th century,
the khan follows traditional Mamluk designs,
featuring courtyards, iwans (arched porticoes), and
mashrabiyas (decorative wooden balconies).
Although originally intended as a caravanserai (rest
stop for travelers), its architectural features reflect
the Mamluk domestic style.
Levant Mamluk architecture
Mamluk Homes in Acre (Palestine):
In the Palestinian city of Acre, several Mamluk
homes exhibit similar designs to those found in
Cairo, including courtyards, iwans, and decorative
wooden mashrabiyas.
These homes are examples of how the Mamluks
spread their architectural style throughout their
empire, emphasizing privacy, ventilation, and
aesthetic beauty.
