Sabil-Kuttab of Katkhuda Facts:
Islamic Cairo is dotted with odd-shaped buildings with large windows covered by lacy grilles and what looks like a water trough where the windowsill should be.
The Sabil of Katkhuda, or fountain, was kept full of fresh water and copper cups were attached to the grille so that thirsty passers-by could help themselves to a drink.
Wealthy warlords and nobles would often build a sabil to curry favor with both the city populace and their god above.
On an upper floor above the sabil was often a small terrace open to the breezes on three sides, which was set aside for the teaching of the Quran and known as a kuttab.
Thus a sabil–kuttab provided two things commanded by the Prophet Mohammed – water for the thirsty and spiritual enlightenment for the ignorant.
Built in 1744, this structure has been carefully renovated. Faience tiles depicting Mecca adorn the lower floor, while the upper floor is decorated with carved wooden pillars and beams.
The exterior of the building has some fine “joggling” – panels of different colored blocks of marble fitted together like a jigsaw.
The entrance fee should be included in that of the Qasr Beshtak, whose guardian also holds the key.
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