Aisha Fahmy Palace is a 1907 mansion in Zamalek, beside the Nile near 26th of July Street. Its restored rooms are now used for temporary art exhibitions, so the experience depends on what is showing and which areas are open. Inside, look for silk-clad and frescoed walls, carved-wood fireplaces, painted lacquerwork and a triple-arched stained-glass window above the grand staircase. It is a rewarding short stop if you are exploring Zamalek and want to see both Cairo’s early 20th-century interiors and contemporary art.
A mansion beside the Nile
Aisha Fahmy Palace stands in Zamalek, near 26th of July Street and the Nile. Italian architect Antonio Lasciac designed the mansion for Ali Fahmy, an Egyptian aristocrat and army chief. It was completed in 1907, during a period when prominent families built residences in the district.
After Ali Fahmy’s death, the property passed to his daughter Aisha. She lived there with her husband, actor and director Youssef Wahbi. The palace remained in her possession until her death. It later came under the Ministry of Culture and reopened as an arts centre in 2017.
Details inside the palace
The restored interiors are a reason to look beyond the exhibitions. Rooms have silk-covered and frescoed walls, carved wooden fireplaces and painted lacquerwork. Above the grand staircase, a triple-arched stained-glass window is one of the mansion’s distinctive architectural details.
The palace’s grand salons now host temporary exhibitions. What you can see inside can change, and access to the palace depends on the exhibitions taking place. Check the current programme before setting out, particularly if you are visiting specifically to see a particular room or show.
Planning a short visit
A visit can fit into a short Zamalek walk. The palace is close to 26th of July Street, where shops, juice bars and bookshops make it easy to continue exploring the neighbourhood afterwards. Allow around 15 minutes if you are making a quick stop; the time inside depends on the exhibition and the areas open during your visit.
The palace is closed on Fridays. Photography inside is permitted without flash, so leave the flash off when taking pictures of the rooms and artwork. Confirm access before going, since the exhibition schedule affects whether visitors can enter.
FAQ
Where is Aisha Fahmy Palace?
It is at 1 Aziz Abaza Street in Zamalek, near the Nile and 26th of July Street.
When was Aisha Fahmy Palace built?
The mansion was built in 1907 and designed by Italian architect Antonio Lasciac.
What can you see inside Aisha Fahmy Palace?
The palace hosts temporary art exhibitions. Its restored interiors include frescoed and silk-covered walls, carved-wood fireplaces, painted lacquerwork and a triple-arched stained-glass window.
Can you take photos inside Aisha Fahmy Palace?
Photography is allowed without flash.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Around 10 to 15 minutes is enough for a short stop, though the time depends on the exhibition and areas open.
