Abou al-Haggag Mosque

Built directly on top of Luxor Temple's original courtyard, the Abu al-Haggag Mosque is one of the few active mosques anywhere standing inside a pharaonic temple. It started as a Coptic church in the 4th century CE, became a mosque in the 7th century, and still holds Friday prayers today. It's an easy five-minute add-on if you're already at Luxor Temple, and worth timing around the November mulid festival honouring the mosque's namesake, Sheikh Abu al-Haggag, when the surrounding streets fill with music and boat processions.

The Abou al-Haggag Mosque was initially built as a Church in the 4th century CE and was converted into a mosque in the 7th century CE. It is named after Sheikh Yusuf Abu el Haggag who saved the mosque from demolition. The best time to visit Abou al-Haggag Mosque is in early November, when a festival is held to honour Abou el Haggag’s birthday. The festival includes performances of Sufi music, horse races, boat rides and other activities.