Cairo’s Al-Azhar Park was used as a rubbish dump for 500 years and over 80,000 truckloads had to be removed, but now it is has been completely transformed. The construction of this park is part of the 10 year long, $30 million revamp of the ancient Islamic quarter of Cairo. The park covers an area of 30 hectares and features the Ayyubid wall which was constructed by Salah El-Din over 800 years ago. It is home to a play area and a large amphitheatre, as well as the Royal Palm Promenade. On the highest level the ‘telescope’ offers 360-degree panoramic views over Cairo and these can also be enjoyed from the veranda of one of the cafes in the park. The park buildings have been constructed using archways from the Fatimid period of the 11th and 12th centuries. This area is safe during the day; however, it is still advised that appropriate dress is worn: shoulders and legs should be covered. It was hoped that the park would bring in further tourism for the area and it has being the only real site of greenery among the labyrinthine streets of Cairo.

Written by  Vikkie Chapman.

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