Historic Cairo Gets a Facelift: U.S. and Egypt Collaborate on Monument Renovations

Egyptian officials and the U.S. ambassador celebrated the renovation of monuments in Historic Cairo, including the 15th-century Bimaristan al-Muayyad Sheikh. The initiative aims to preserve antiquities and involve the local community in cultural functions. Other landmarks, aided by the USAID, were also restored.

Egyptian officials and the U.S. ambassador have inaugurated renovations of several monuments and buildings in Historic Cairo, including the Bimaristan al-Muayyad Sheikh, a landmark hospital complex built in 1420 A.D. The site is renowned for its grand crenulated facade and intricate kufic Arabic inscriptions.

Mohamed Ismael, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that this new government policy aims to involve civil society in the preservation of these antiquities. He added that the renovated building would host cultural functions, engaging the neighborhood community.

Additionally, other monuments such as the 18th-century Sabil Kuttab of Ruqayya Dudu and the 14th-century Gate of Manjak al-Silahdar, restored with USAID support, were also inaugurated on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies.)