The
Ministry of Antiquities starts conservation and development of both Al-Ashraf
Khalil and Fatma Khatoun located on Al-Ashraaf Street in Historic Cairo.
Written By/ Nevine El-Aref.
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Al-Ashraf Khalil Dome
|
Fatma
Khatoun Dome was originally a mausoleum and once part of Al-Madrasa
Al-Khatuniya and Madrasa Umm Al-Saleh. During the Ottoman period, it was used
as a Sufi hostel. The madrasa (school) no longer exists.
It
is located on Al-Ashraf Street near As-Sayyida Nafisa mausoleum. It was founded
by Al-Sultan Qalawun for his wife Khawand Khatoun. The mausoleum is composed of
an inner square, a minaret, and two rows of stalactites within an outer arch.
The
mausoleum of Al-Ashraf Khalil was founded in 687 AH / 1288 AD by Al-Sultan
Al-Ashraf Salah El-Din Khalil Ibn Qalawun. The lower part of the mausoleum is
built with stone crowned stalactites, while the dome is built with brick.
Mohamed
Abdel Aziz, director general of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project,
explained that the development project aims to preserve both domes from water
damage by installing a new drainage system. It will also decrease the level of
humidity, consolidate the walls and repair cracks.
The
open area in front of the domes, he added, is to be converted into a public
park, including an open-air theatre, cafeteria, a library and a playing area
for children. An administrative building is to be provided.
Abdel
Aziz pointed out that this project is part of a long term plan to develop
Al-Khalifa area, both archaeologically and urbanely, in a step towards upgrading
its residents’ living standards as well as promoting tourism.
The
project is carried out in collaboration with Al-Athar Lina Initiative (The
Antiquity Is For Us) and Built Environment Collective (Mogawra).
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