Why Egypt’s “Red Palace” Was Demolished Despite Heritage Laws

The demolition of the “Red Palace,” also known as the “Iskandar Pasha Palace,” in the Egyptian city of Mansoura has caused significant local outrage. Preservationists and residents concerned with the city’s architectural heritage are dismayed by its loss, and images of the demolition sparked intense debate across Egyptian social media.

Much of the online discussion, however, has occurred without full awareness of the complex legal and historical background of the case.