Cairo
This is one of the unique examples of the architecture of sabils of bahari mamluks era. The sabil is like a cave entirely carved into the rock, except for its facade which is covered with stone. It is also one of the oldest stand-alone sabils which is not attached to another facility, and its function was to provide water to passers-by. It was established in 755 AH/1354 AD by al-Amir (Prince) Sayf al-Din Shaykhu al-Nasiri (or Shaykhun as known to the public), one of the Mamluks of al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun.
The sabil has a magnificent facade consisting of a prominent rectangular block with a central entrance topped by a knotted arch ornamented with five decorative arches. These arches feature vegetal motifs, inscriptions and ranks such as the rank (emblem) of the cupbearer, which is in the shape of a cup, and the inscriptional rank “Glory be to our Lord, Sultan, King al-Nasir.” Above the entrance, there is an inscriptional band containing the founding inscription of the sabil. The entrance leads to two rectangular halls; on the floor of each is a cistern cap. Water was offered to passers-by using designated jars for water distribution.
