Cairo, Egypt – The city of Cairo is surrounded by many accounts and legends that accompanied its inception, and its name remains one of the most debated topics among historians. One of the most famous narratives links the naming of the Egyptian capital to the planet Mars, which was known in ancient times as the “Conquering Planet” (Al-Qahir).
The Legendary Origin of the City
The story of Cairo’s founding dates back to 969 AD, when the Fatimid commander Jawhar al-Siqilli entered Egypt on the orders of Caliph Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah to establish a new capital for the Fatimid state north of the city of Fustat.
The most famous account suggests that astrologers chose a specific time to begin construction based on the movement of the stars, and bells were tied to ropes surrounding the site to be rung by workers upon a signal. A bird landed on one of the ropes, causing the bells to ring prematurely, and the workers began digging while the planet Mars—”Al-Qahir”—was visible in the sky, leading them to name the city “Al-Qahira” (Cairo).
Historians’ Perspective on the Naming
Despite the popularity of this tale, many historians confirm it is closer to legend than historical fact, as there is no conclusive evidence linking the city’s naming to astrology or planetary movement.
Instead, many researchers believe the name was intended to express the strength of the Fatimid state and its ambition to conquer its opponents and triumph over them, reflecting the political and military orientation of the state at that time.
Cairo Through the Ages
Since its founding, Cairo gradually transformed into one of the most important political and cultural capitals in the Islamic world, seeing the construction of Al-Azhar Mosque, palaces, and markets that formed the core of the historic city.
For over a millennium, Cairo has maintained its status, earning the title “City of a Thousand Minarets” for its ancient mosques and Islamic landmarks, becoming a meeting point for civilizations and a hub for science, culture, and trade.
The name of Cairo remains a witness to a long history, while the story of its connection to the planet Mars continues to be one of the most discussed and intriguing tales among those interested in the history of ancient and Islamic Egypt.
