inside Tekiet Musafer.... Photo by Amira Noshokaty
In the heart of Historic Cairo, overlooking a breathtaking view of Sultan Hassan and Al-Refaai Mosques, lies a heritage building that allows you to reflect, connect with, and explore Egypt's living heritage in its original place.
The name Takiyyat Musafir translates to "hostel for travellers," which is an Ottoman traditional space that used to cater to travellers, host people of Sufi orders, and also provide free meals for those in need.
However, the modern-day Takiyyat Musafir is more of a cultural sanctuary that amplifies culture in its home place; it is an architectural marvel built in the Neo-Islamic style.
The Beginning
"I have had my eye on this neighbourhood since I launched my tours, Let's Explore Egypt, in 2014. I work in restoration and believe that any old place can be restored and turned into a cultural heritage venue while preserving the story behind it. I saw several apartments, but this one touched my heart. So I told Shimaa and asked her to be my partner," explained Nada Zein El-Dien to Ahram Online.
A permanent exhibition for local artisans
Shimaa Nader, a translator and co-founder, explained that they both loved the place and that it was as if the apartment started generating ideas. "I work with children and handicrafts, so we started a library for the children of the neighbourhood, as well as a local showroom for the artisans of the neighbourhood," Nader explained as she showed the masterpieces of engraved wooden chairs with shell inlay at the venue, the artwork of Am Ashraf.
The story of the apartment
"This apartment used to belong to Set Nafisa, a woman known for her kindness and praised by all her neighbours for her cleanliness. She was among the very first people to own an icebox. However, the apartment was closed for 18 years. We kept the wooden floors and tiles, even the old heater in the bathroom, and started renovating the apartment in 2021.
"We created a cultural centre, where we host seminars, music evenings, book signings, poetry evenings, and workshops. We host photo exhibitions, like an exhibition on the Hajj trip, as well as a permanent handicrafts exhibition where people from the neighbourhood rent a space and exhibit their products, in addition to our exhibition of handicrafts from various parts of Egypt, such as Siwa and El Dakhla Oasis. We have a special hall for children's activities," added Zein El-Dien.
The Meaning Behind the Name
"The name Takiyyat Musafir has many meanings," explained Nader. "For Sufis, it was a venue; in villages, the mayor would open it for travellers to rest. What is a common theme between them is the fact that you will find your refuge in it, your inner peace. Like the voyager who is on a journey and this is their stop, or the one who comes here to embark on a voyage," she noted.
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