Overview
An arcade of stone arches and shaded passageways along the sanctuary’s western edge. [3]
The Western Portico extends from Ghawanima Gate in the north to Maghariba Gate in the south. Its repeated stone arches connect the gates and the buildings set into the western edge. [3]
Awqaf divides its construction history into three stretches. It records Mamluk work in the Ghawanima–Nazir, Nazir–Chain and Chain–Maghariba sections, followed by Ottoman and later repairs. This long arcade should not be assigned a single construction date. [3]
The adjoining madrasas, gateways and minarets make this edge a useful place to read the relationship between the sanctuary courtyard and the surrounding city. The portico itself is distinct from the freestanding stairway arcades of the raised platform. [3]
