Explore the environs of Al-verdant Azhar to experience nature’s utmost magnificence. Ascend to the summit, which is breathtaking for tourists, and explore the central fountain and the brilliant blue lake. To relax a little, stop by a couple of cafes. His Highness, the Aga Khan’s concept for a park was inspired by one of the densest cities in the world at the time—Cairo. The park is distinguished by its walkways, swimming pools, hills, impromptu picnic places, formal gardens, and other characteristics. Its vegetation changes from dry, succulent flora to lush, grassy meadows with trees for shade to formal gardens, and finally to orchard sections resembling bustans.

The plan aims to create an imaginative and interpretive link between the park’s critical architectural features—such as the hilltop restaurant, the lakeside café, and multiple plazas—and the architecture of historic Cairo. Numerous associated urban redevelopment initiatives in the region are sparked and fueled by Al Azhar Park, a planning approach that can be used in other old cities.

It provides a 30-hectare swath of greenery in Cairo’s Old City on land that had been dust and ruin for more than two centuries. The spine is a formal axis with an associated network of alleyways and a water channel that points toward a small lake and the Citadel. It features a cutting-edge style that draws inspiration from traditional Islamic gardens.

The park is home to a museum and an urban plaza with authentic Egyptian cafes and restaurants. At Lakeview Cafe, you can choose Lebanese specialities, while at Citadel View Studio Misr, you can order à la carte. Escape to Al Azhar Park after a long day of sightseeing to have flavorful kebabs and khubz while overlooking The Citadel in the distance. The height also offers the chance to take incredible panoramic photos of the dusty capital city sparkling in the light.