Al-Askar

Al-Askar, the capital of Egypt, was an important city during the Mamluk period. It served as the political, military and administrative center of the Mamluk Sultanate from 1250 to 1517. The city was located on the eastern bank of the Nile River, and its strategic position allowed the Mamluk rulers to govern the country effectively.

The name Al-Askar means “the army” in Arabic, and this reflects the military importance of the city. The Mamluk armies were stationed in Al-Askar, and the city was home to numerous barracks, armories and training grounds. The ruling elite of the Mamluk Sultanate also resided in Al-Askar, and the city was home to many palaces and government buildings.

The streets of Al-Askar bustled with activity, as merchants, traders, soldiers and politicians went about their business. The city was a hub of commerce, and its markets were famous throughout the Islamic world. The Mamluk rulers encouraged trade and commerce, and this led to the growth of the city’s economy.

The city was also renowned for its architecture, which blended traditional Islamic design with new innovations. The Mamluk rulers commissioned numerous public buildings, mosques, and madrasas throughout the city, many of which still stand today. One of the most iconic buildings in Al-Askar was the Mosque of Sultan Hassan, built in the 14th century. This grand structure was a testament to the wealth and power of the Mamluk rulers.

Overall,

Al-Askar’s rule came to an end in 1517, when the Ottoman Empire conquered Egypt. The Ottomans moved the capital to Cairo, and Al-Askar gradually declined in importance. Today, the ruins of the city lie buried beneath the modern city of Cairo, a testament to the rich history of Egypt and the legacy of the Mamluk Sultanate. Despite its decline, Al-Askar remains an important part of the history and heritage of Egypt, and it continues to be studied and admired by scholars and visitors alike.