In Cairo, Egypt, there is a medieval mosque and madrasa complex known as the Al-Ashraf Mosque or the Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan al-Ashraf Barsbay. The Burji Sultan Al-Ashraf Al-Barsbay constructed the mosque during the Mamluk era. A mausoleum, a mosque-madrasa, two sabils, and Sufi apartments are all part of the complex. The mosque is distinguished by its architecture, which features marble and stained-glass windows. The magnificent dome that once distinguished the Sufi rooms has since been destroyed. Al-Ashraf Mosque’s dome is one of the earliest examples of a dome with a geometrically carved surface is the dome in the complex’s courtyard.

The mosque measures 20 by 15 meters. The mosque’s interior features two rows of windows, arcades with classical capitals, a centre aisle with raised Iwans, and marble mosaic pavements. The mihrab and minbar are positioned on the mosque’s southeast wall. In contrast to the other elements of the mosque, the mihrab is less ornate than the minbar. The more basic mihrab during this time may have reflected the humility of the Sufi brotherhoods. The tomb chamber is on the north side of the mosque and is illuminated by unoriginal colored glass windows. The marble Barsbay cenotaph is situated in front of the mihrab.

Due to the nature of the building trade and the relative immobility of builders in comparison to other craftspeople, the Al-Ashraf Mosque preserves a strong regional character. The exterior’s aesthetic is rooted in history and technology. A unique example of a deed etched in stone, the primary inscription around the vaulted Iwans was intended to serve as a permanent reminder to the building’s managers of how the money set aside for upkeep and staff was to be used. This trait suggests openness and dialogue between the Sultan and the Cairo population.