Egypt is home to Al-Azhar Mosque and Al-Azhar University in Cairo. Founded during the Fatimid period, Al-Azhar became one of the most influential centers of Islamic learning in the world.
The mosque was established in Cairo in 970–972 CE after the Fatimid conquest of Egypt. Its name is commonly connected with Fatimah al-Zahra, the daughter of Muhammad. Over time, the institution developed from a mosque and teaching center into a major university.
Al-Azhar is especially associated with Sunni Islamic scholarship, Arabic studies, law, theology, and other academic subjects. Its long history can cause confusion with Egypt’s ancient Pharaonic monuments, which belong to much earlier periods. The institution’s modern university faculties include both religious and secular fields.