Sabil of al-Bazdar
Monument Ornate public fountain in historic Cairo
Street-level charitable fountain noted for its decorative stonework and inscriptions; included on heritage walks that trace Cairo’s historic public services and endowment buildings.
The Sabil of al-Bazdar is a public drinking fountain in Cairo, Egypt, and part of the city’s historic group of sabils. It was established to provide potable water to passersby as a charitable civic facility.
The structure is small and street-facing, featuring a dispensing niche sized for immediate street use rather than large gatherings. Any ornamentation typically highlights the fountain opening and nearby masonry.
The name al-Bazdar indicates patronage by a named individual or family who endowed the fountain as a waqf. Like other sabils, it has existed as a practical element of urban infrastructure with variable maintenance over time.
Situated in Cairo Governorate, the sabil lies within Cairo’s historic urban area and is accessible from surrounding streets.
- Patron: Built or endowed by the individual named in the title, following the widespread tradition of private charitable foundations for public water supply in Cairo.
How to Get to Sabil of al-Bazdar #
Accessible on foot from Al-Muizz Street or via a short taxi ride from Khan al-Khalili; then proceed through the commercial lanes where sabils frequently appear.
Tips for Visiting Sabil of al-Bazdar #
- Note any carpentry marks on the wood frames - often kuttab windows or shutters remain and reveal local craftsmanship.
- If there's a schoolroom (kuttab) above, listen for activity - many kuttabs have been repurposed but still serve community functions.
- Photograph the inscription at an angle when direct sunlight is low; the shallow carving shows best in oblique light.
Best Time to Visit Sabil of al-Bazdar #
Visit during cooler months and in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Weather & Climate near Sabil of al-Bazdar #
Sabil of al-Bazdar's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 8°C to 35°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain.
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February
February is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Almost no rain.
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March
March is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 11°C. Almost no rain.
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April
April is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain.
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May
May is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is warm with highs of 35°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.