Al-Zaher Baibars

(1260-1277)The fourth Mameluke sultan and the real founder of the Mameluke dynasty that ruled Syria and Egypt for more than three centuries. He set a limit on Mongols expansion in the Middle East after defeating them at the Battle of Ayn Jalut, and defeated the Crusaders in many other battles. He was also an efficient administrator who took interest in building various projects. Al-Zaher Baibars died in Damascus in Al-Ablaqq Palace and was buried in Al- Zahiriyya School, which was turned into a library later on. His mausoleum is considered one of the most ever beautiful mausoleum in Damascus which is richly decorated and ornamented with colored marble, gilt wood, mosaic, and carved stucco.