The restoration project includes archaeological and photographic documentation, architectural analysis, and topographical surveying, followed by structural interventions that included strengthening and grouting the foundations, repairing wall cracks, conserving the roof, and cleaning the stonework. Restoration also extended to the mosque’s staircases, wooden, marble, and glass elements, as well as its foundation inscription. A new lighting system was installed to enhance the monument while preserving its historic character.
Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the project reflects the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ ongoing commitment to safeguarding Egypt’s Islamic architectural heritage through sustainable conservation while ensuring that historic religious monuments continue to serve their spiritual, cultural, and community roles. He praised the close cooperation between the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the Ministry of Endowments, the Dawoodi Bohra community, and all partners who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
The restoration has revived the mosque’s original architectural identity and highlighted the importance of continued collaboration with government institutions and local communities to implement further conservation projects and reopen additional historic monuments across Egypt.
Mohamed Bek El-Sagheer Mosque is one of the notable historic monuments of Old Cairo. Originally rebuilt during the reign of Sultan Al-Ashraf Barsbay in 830 AH (1427 CE), it underwent a major renovation during the Ottoman period in 1287 AH (1870 CE) under Mohamed Mirza Pasha. The mosque is distinguished by its elaborately decorated southern entrance framed by a monumental arch with carved stone muqarnas, a timber roof crowned by a central lantern, a three-tiered minaret, an intricately carved wooden minbar and a richly ornamented mihrab decorated with vegetal and epigraphic motifs, underscoring its exceptional historical, artistic and architectural value.
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