Islamic Cairo :Bayt Al Sihaymi

After the visit to Al-Hakim Mosque, my guide, Lamia, and I walked towards the Bayt Al Sihaymi. Bayt in Arabic means house. This place is a fine example of what Ottoman merchant houses used to look like. For those who've been to Intramuros in Manila, it's like a visit to the old house of Illustrados where you get to see how they lived. So here we go!

I really do like the Arabesque design particularly because you can see its influences on Philippine architecture

I also like how they use a lot of colors in their design. This somehow makes it feel a bit more modern.

The courtyard garden.

Painted on the ceiling are words from the holy Qur-an. 

Stained glass windows.

I see this in most establishments and houses

Look at that ceiling!I love the little stars and flowers. The high ceilings also provide good ventilation.

These Arabesque windows remind me of windows in old Manila houses.

Fountain. Those tiles are so pretty. They look like a woven mat! (banig)

Every house used to have this. This is where you place the Qur'an, which should always be open.

Another beautifully designed ceiling.

We went outside.

In one of the "cottages" the ceiling looked like this. I want this for my own house.

The Ottoman really loves colors. Don't you just love the blue on those plates.

And on these wall tiles!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Yes, I match with the walls. And I'm all sweaty.

But I'm happy.

More stained-glass ceilings. This is a really good idea for a kids room.

The outside of the house looked like this.

On our way out, I just to take a picture of this sign.

Are there no clouds in Cairo?

Cobble stoned streets. 

Just walking around Islamic Cairo is a delight. I'm definitely going back to this place to explore and take more pictures.

It's just a little far from Garden City where I live. Around 45 minutes.

Oh and I was able to buy some souvenirs for friends! Yay. I just need to look for something to bring home to my nieces. Any ideas on what to get kids when you're coming from Cairo?