Cairo, Egypt

Dating from the 10th century, Al-Azhar University is one of the oldest operating universities in the world and it is still a major center of Islamic learning. It is connected to the beautiful and historic Al-Azhar Mosque.

The best-known Coptic church in Cairo is this church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and named for its elevated location. It dates mainly from the 10th century.

Built by Ahmad Ibn Tulun in 879, this is the oldest mosque in Egypt and the third largest in the world. It is also famed for its lovely architecture and unique minaret.

Completed in 1848, the Ottoman-style Muhammad Ali Mosque or "Alabaster Mosque" is the most prominent in Cairo, dominating the skyline from its lofty location on the Citadel.

Built between 1356 and 1363 by the Mamluk ruler Sultan Hassan, this is among the largest and most impressive Islamic buildings in the world. It may incorporate stone from the Pyramids of Giza.

The concrete Art Deco exterior of this early 20th-century synagogue hides an interior of exquisite stained-glass windows and light fixtures rumored to be from Tiffany's.

The Citadel was built in the 12th century by Saladin and his successors, using the most advanced construction techniques of the age. For the next 700 years, Egypt was ruled from this hill.

This huge neoclassical building houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including artifacts from the tomb of King Tut.

This interesting Coptic church off the beaten track in Old Cairo is dedicated to the "saint of two swords."