Kayıtbay Inscription at the Babusselam Entrance

Sultan Kayıtbay (d. 1496) is one of the most important sultans of the Mamluks. Reigning from 873 to 901 AH (1468-1496 AD), Kayıtbay placed great importance on the two holy cities — Mecca and Medina. He constructed many buildings in both cities, created waterworks, and established various foundations, while also improving the living conditions of the people of Medina by exempting them from taxes. This inscription, organized in 888 AH (1483 AD), announces Kayıtbay's decision to abolish all taxes on the people of Medina. The placement of the inscription at the Babusselam entrance — one of the most famous doors of the Prophet's Mosque — ensured that this decision was publicized and associated with respect for the Prophet's mosque. Such inscriptions were one of the main ways to announce legal and political decisions to the public in the medieval Islamic world. The walls and doorways of mosques were preferred locations for such announcements due to their permanence and ability to reach large audiences. [Source: TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, "Kayıtbay" article, islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/kaytbay; "Prophet's Mosque" article]