The center was established in 2008 to support the local community and promote contemporary art in a traditionally historic area.
The name 'Darb 1718' refers to the specific street address and building number where the center was originally founded.
It is situated in the shadow of the Hanging Church and the Roman Fortress of Babylon, emphasizing the contrast between ancient and modern Cairo.
The facility was repurposed from a series of traditional mud-brick warehouses to preserve the area's original aesthetic.
Darb 1718 operates an ongoing residency program that invites international artists to engage with the Cairo art scene.
Darb 1718 is a contemporary art and culture center located in the historic Fustat neighborhood of Old Cairo. Founded by visual artist Moataz Nasr, the space functions as a hub for local musicians, independent filmmakers, and craftspeople. The venue includes multiple galleries, a courtyard for performances, and studios for various creative workshops. It hosts regular yoga classes, film screenings, and music festivals throughout the year. The architectural style integrates industrial elements with traditional Coptic-era surroundings. It acts as an incubator for emerging Egyptian artists through residency programs and exhibitions. The center is known for its community-focused approach to the arts within the context of Old Cairo's urban fabric.
The central open-air courtyard with its brick walls and industrial metal structures.
Check their social media channels for current event schedules, as programming rotates frequently based on ongoing exhibitions.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Fustat area to see the nearby Coptic Cairo sites.
Do not expect a traditional museum experience; it is an active, evolving space often used for workshops and community events.
Closed on some national holidays; event-dependent access.
Modest dress is recommended out of respect for the surrounding historic neighborhood.
