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Located on al-Ghawriyya Street, near the end of al-Muizz street and facing the mosque of al-Muayyad Shaykh in Cairo, Egypt, the Sabil-Kuttab of Nafisa Khatun is a historical monument that serves both practical and educational purposes.
Sabil (Water Fountain)
The Sabil portion of the complex is constructed in a distinctive Ottoman design.
It features a semi-circular structure with three copper windows, characteristic of Ottoman architecture of the period.
A marble slab above the central window on the façade indicates the construction date of 1211 AH (1796 AD), providing historical context.
Kuttab (School)
Attached to the Sabil is a Kuttab, a traditional Islamic school where children, often from poor or orphaned backgrounds, memorized the Qur’an.
The Kuttab played a crucial role in community education and religious instruction during the Ottoman period.
Historical Significance
The establishment of the Sabil-Kuttab by Nafisa Khatun reflects the charitable and educational contributions of women in Ottoman Cairo.
The marble plaque above the Kuttab’s door, quoting a saying of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasizes the importance of learning and teaching the Qur’an in Islamic tradition.
The Sabil-Kuttab of Nafisa Khatun stands as a testament to Cairo’s rich Islamic heritage and the enduring legacy of charitable initiatives in the city. Whether admiring its Ottoman architecture or reflecting on its educational role, this historical site offers a unique window into Cairo’s past. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore and appreciate this cultural gem when visiting Islamic Cairo.
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