Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Mamluks were a group of military rulers who ruled Egypt and Syria from the 13th to the 16th century. They were originally slave soldiers but eventually gained power and established their own dynasty.
Related terms
Sultanate: A sultanate is a state or territory ruled by a sultan, who is usually a Muslim ruler. The Mamluks established their own sultanate in Egypt and Syria during their rule.
Islamic Art: Islamic art refers to artistic traditions influenced by Islam's cultural and religious beliefs. Many examples of Islamic art can be found during the Mamluk period, including architecture, calligraphy, ceramics, and textiles.
Cairo Citadel: The Cairo Citadel is a medieval fortress located in Cairo, Egypt. It was built by the Mamluks as a defensive structure and served as their political center during their rule.