Idéo Cairo
A library, a monastery and a church
A library specialized in Islamic studies is not something you wouldn't expect to see in Cairo, but what if I told you this library was established by Dominican friars?
When, in 1937, Dominican friars decided to dedicate themselves to Islamic studies, Cairo seemed to them like the ideal location, what with it being the home of al-Azhar and a place of great culture.
The library opens its doors to all students holding a Master's degree and above. It contains over 150,000 monographs in the field of Islamic studies. IDEO also offers a home for researchers and students looking for a calm and quiet place to study and that is the scholar’s home in which you’d have access to their library and the institute’s garden all for a reasonable price.
Furthermore, the institute often organizes lectures and conferences for research seminars. The beautiful church that belongs to the institute also welcomes visitors and everyone there is friendly and welcoming. I love the atmosphere of knowledge and great love there.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Cairo guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Cairo
La Chesa – Vintage European
"La Chesa" in Cairo is a Swiss restaurant that's completely different from what you can get in the rest of the city. You should try their cheese fondue...
By
Farah
Safwat
Alku5 – Jungle atmosphere
"Alku5" in Cairo is like a gate to another world. It's a cafe with four different rooms and each room has a completely different style...
By
Olfat
Al-Qadi
Qahwet Wadi ElNile – Tahrir Egyptian café
"Qahwet Wadi ElNile" in Cairo is a cozy indoor café with a panoramic view of Tahrir Square. The decoration has remained the same since the '60s...
By
Mohamed
Khaled
Abdeen Gardens – Outdoor palace food court
"Abdeen Gardens" outside the magnificent Abdeen Palace in Cairo was recently renovated and now has excellent food courts! Great for families...
By
Mohamed
Khaled
Abyssinia – East-African gem
"Abyssinia" is for all East Africans and East African cuisine enthusiasts in Caior! The meals there are like a journey to the Horn of Africa...
By
Rym
Abduljalil
Souq Al sabbat – Weekly antique souq
The market has an assortment of watches, glasses, furniture, stamps, picture frames, analog cameras & everything that sparks memories from the olden days.
By
Farah
Safwat
Simon the Tanner – The miracle of El-Mokattam
The monastery of St "Simon the Tanner" in Cairo is an architectural wonder and a true work of art. Where else will you find a monastery carved in stone?
By
Farah
Safwat
Gayer Anderson Museum – House & museum
The "Gayer Anderson Museum" in Cairo is an antique house that will certainly catch your attention. Visiting is like reliving moments of history...
By
Olfat
Al-Qadi
Hana Korean Barbecue – Kimchi in Cairo
Do you like or miss Korean food? "Hana Korean Barbecue" will scratch that itch for you... I have been a loyal customer since being introduced to it!
By
Rym
Abduljalil
Sufi Cafe and Bookstore – Quiet time
"Sufi Cafe and Bookstore" in Cairo is the little cafe I sit at when I want to finish some schoolwork. I love the sufi chants and the events here, too...
By
Farah
Safwat
Kayaking with Birds – Magic in & outside the city
Here's a fantastic way to get to know the Nile - do some kayaking with birds! You'll watch the sunrise among reeds and water fowl...
By