Located in the Anfoushi neighborhood on the north coast of Alexandria, Egypt, the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is a striking mosque, mausoleum, and Sufi shrine dedicated to a 13th-century mystic. Standing approximately three meters above its surroundings, this historic site sits alongside the Al-Busiri and Sidi Yaqut Al-Arsh mosques, all facing a central sahn. You should visit to experience its remarkable Neo-Mamluk architecture, designed by Italian architect Mario Rossi, which famously served as an inspiration for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
Inside, you will discover soaring ceilings up to 26 meters tall, white marble floors, solid granite pillars, and walls crafted from artificial stone and mosaic. Take time to admire the interior roof's Arabic inscriptions, arabesque interlacing, and ventilation openings, as well as a hanging bronze chandelier. You can view the teak and walnut minbar inscribed with French gold Quranic verses, the mosaic-encased mihrab bearing the Shahadah, and dedicated prayer spaces.
Near the end of the mosque, you can pay your respects at the tombs of Abu'l Abbas al-Mursi, his disciples, and three mystics from the Ashraf family.
What to see at El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque
- Historic 13th-century Sufi shrine and mausoleum resting in Alexandria's Anfoushi neighborhood
- Stunning Neo-Mamluk architecture featuring a 73-meter minaret and four smaller domes surrounding a central main dome
- Ornate interior elements including Italian-designed granite pillars, white marble floors, and a bronze chandelier
- Intricate minbar made of teak and walnut with Quranic inscriptions written in French gold
- Tombs of mystic Abu'l Abbas al-Mursi, his disciples, and members of the Ashraf family
Visiting tips
As you explore the central sahn, take time to view the neighboring Al-Busiri and Sidi Yaqut Al-Arsh mosques situated around the same shared complex.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque is easy to reach on Alexandria’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Alexandria travel guide.
See the full Alexandria travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.