Ibn Tulun Mosque

The oldest unchanged mosque in Cairo. It was built way back in the 9th century, yet it still retains its full original form!

Its Abbasid architecture is especially unique because it’s uncommon among Islamic monuments in Cairo. The spiraling minaret is one of its kind in Egypt, it was famously built to mimic Samarra’s landmark minaret.

Being the biggest mosque in all of Cairo, and given its vast courtyard takes up most of the space, it feels so different inside from outside. None of the hustle of ElSaleeba St makes it inside. But along with all the monuments lined along that street, it forms such an amazing portrait that brings the glories of the past alive, or at least lets it tower over the present silently.

What an amazing experience, our tour guide explained everything to in us in detail, admission is free and it’s a very lovely historical place to visit. The mosque is very beautiful and very well preserved for its age it’s over 1000 years old, has amazing courtyards and a lovely tower you can climb to the top and visit. Definitely would recommend checking it out.

One of the biggest mosque in Cairo.

It was strategically built to survive any conditions list floods or enemy attacks.

It has a very unique Minar which has the stairs on the outside and it can be even climbed riding the horse.

A must visit place in Cairo.

Aḥmad ibn Ṭūlūn‎; ca. 20 September 835 – 10 May 884) was the founder of the Tulunid dynasty that ruled Egypt and Syria between 868 and 905. Originally a Turkic slave-soldier, in 868 Ibn Tulun was sent to Egypt as governor by the Abbasid caliph. Within four years Ibn Tulun had established himself as a virtually independent ruler by evicting the caliphal fiscal agent, Ibn al-Mudabbir, taking over control of Egypt’s finances, and establishing a large military force personally loyal to himself. This process was facilitated by the volatile political situation in the Abbasid court and the preoccupation of the Abbasid regent, al-Muwaffaq, with the wars against the Saffarids and the Zanj Rebellion. Ibn Tulun also took care to establish an efficient administration in Egypt. After reforms to the tax system, repairs to the irrigation system, and other measures, the annual tax yield grew markedly. As a symbol of his new regime, he built a new capital, al-Qata’i, north of the old capital Fustat.

After 875/6 he entered into open conflict with al-Muwaffaq, who tried unsuccessfully to unseat him. In 878, with the support of al-Muwaffaq’s brother, Caliph al-Mu’tamid, Ibn Tulun took over the governance of Syria as well as the frontier districts with the Byzantine Empire, although control of Tarsus in particular proved tenuous. During his absence in Syria, his eldest son and deputy, Abbas, tried to usurp power in Egypt, leading to the imprisonment of Abbas and the nomination of Ibn Tulun’s second son, Khumarawayh, as his heir. The defection in 882 of a senior commander, Lu’lu’, to al-Muwaffaq, and the defection of Tarsus, forced Ibn Tulun to return to Syria. Now virtually powerless, al-Mu’tamid tried to escape from his brother’s control to Ibn Tulun’s domains but was captured by al-Muwaffaq’s agents, and Ibn Tulun convened an assembly of jurists at Damascus to denounce al-Muwaffaq as a usurper. His attempt in autumn 883 to bring Tarsus to heel failed, and he fell sick. Returning to Egypt, he died in May 884 and was succeeded by Khumarawayh.

Came to visit the mosque at early opening hours and there’s no other visitors yet and we had lovely time to discover more about the mosque. It is a really beautiful ancient mosque and definitely worth visiting

We took more than 50 pics and videos at Mosque of Tulun since the ancient Islamic architecture was so astonishing and the view from the top was spectacular.
It was a special day I first tried the ride on tutu and I was much amazed by Egyptians’ driving skills.
———————————————
After this trip, I understood more about Islamic culture. Some stereotypes need to be abolished and some cultural habits should be respected.

IG: @shelleylee03

#tulun #mosque #mosqueoftulun #islam #islamic #culture #muslim #travel #trip #tour #tourism #tourist #touring #travelphotography #traveling #travelblogger #travelgram #taiwanese #cairo #cairoegypt #egypt #egyptian #開羅 #埃及 #🇪🇬

wonderful mosque. very large and with the only minaret in the world to have a staircase on the outside of the tower to climb. a magnificent place to find peace and get lost in the spirit of Islam

The Ibn Tulun Mosque in Cairo is a splendid example of early Islamic architecture. Built in the 9th century, it is one of the oldest and largest mosques in Egypt. Its unique design features a spacious courtyard and a famous spiral minaret that stands out for its distinctive style. The mosque's overall ambiance is serene and contemplative, highlighted by intricate geometric patterns and arabesque designs. It's a testament to the ingenuity of Islamic architecture and remains a significant cultural and historical landmark in Cairo. Visitors often appreciate its grand scale, historical significance, and the peaceful atmosphere it exudes.

You can see hole Cairo from upside
Nice place with nice feelings
Very big n clean
No need ticket to enter

Absolutely love the islamic historical architecture. Very peaceful.

It was amazing. To walk around historical site. It was not difficult to imagine hundreds of faithful praying in the courtyard. And there is something thrilling about being in a place that has pretty much remained the way it was when built.

The Mosque of Ibn Tulun, also known as the Tulunid Mosque, is one of the oldest and most historic mosques in Cairo, Egypt. It is a significant architectural and religious landmark, renowned for its unique design and historical importance.

Key features and information about the Mosque of Ibn Tulun:

1. History: The mosque was built in the 9th century during the Abbasid period and completed in 879 AD. It was commissioned by Ahmad ibn Tulun, the governor of Egypt at the time, who founded the Tulunid Dynasty.

2. Architectural Style: The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is an excellent example of early Islamic architecture. It is renowned for its massive size and the simplicity of its design. The mosque's architecture reflects a blend of Abbasid and traditional Egyptian architectural styles.

3. Design and Layout: The mosque's design includes an open courtyard, a prayer hall, a minaret, and various arched arcades. The courtyard is one of the largest among mosques in Cairo and provides ample space for congregational prayers.

4. Spiral Minaret: The mosque is famous for its unique spiral minaret, which is a rare architectural feature in Islamic religious structures. The minaret is accessible through an external staircase and offers panoramic views of Cairo from the top.

5. Decorative Elements: The Mosque of Ibn Tulun features beautiful stucco carvings and intricate wooden elements in its interior, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship of the era.

6. Well-preserved Structure: The mosque has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, which have helped preserve its historical integrity. Today, it remains one of the best-preserved mosques from the early Islamic period.

7. Open to Visitors: The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is open to both Muslims and non-Muslims. Visitors are required to dress modestly, and women are expected to cover their heads while inside the mosque.

The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is not only a significant religious site but also an important cultural heritage site in Cairo. It attracts tourists and history enthusiasts who wish to explore the rich architectural and cultural legacy of Egypt's early Islamic period. Its serene ambiance, impressive architecture, and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction in Cairo.

Beautfiul old mosque.
I found Coran in Romanian here and was offered free of charge.

Allhamdulillah we went here to pray Friday prayer and we discovered more than we hoped to with beautiful views from the top. And the prayer hall.

Felt very peaceful in one of Cairo's oldest best preserved mosques and no hagglers here!

Its a good idea to take a small prayer mat with you and a bag for your shoes if you mind about the dust that comes in from the courtyard. Or choose a prayer spot further away from the courtyard.

Plenty of space available for men and women sections for prayer.

We walked to here from Sayyedina Zayneb mosque (approx 15mins) but be wary of hagglers outside of Sayyedina Zayneb and wear comfy shoes as the walk can be muddy/ poo along the pavements/streets.

We got an Uber by walking to main street to go to Muhammad Ali mosque after, as we struggled to get one right outside the mosque.

Rich in history. Amazing architecture. A must visit

That’s was one the best experiences in Cairo. It was not on my fav to-do list but I am glad I visited. The architecture is amazing and most of the original work from the, I guess, 10th century is still intact. The best part was lack of tourists and the usual Cairo chaos. Place was very peaceful and I was able to look at the walls and the carvings in my own space.

This historical mosque is magnificent especially that it is kept in its original condition. It makes you wander back in history and wonder how Muslims built its well- decorated walls hundreds of years back.

One of the most beautiful mosques in Cairo and an absolutely must see !!!

Address:

Ahmed Ibn Tolon Sq., Tolon, El Sayeda Zeinab, Cairo, Egypt

The mosque was built from 876 to 879 under Ahmad ibn Tulun, who ruled over Egypt as governor of the Abbasid caliphs between 868 and 884 and led the country to de facto independence. The beginning of construction was dated by the Egyptian historian al-Maqrizi (1364-1442),[1] the completion of which is recorded on an inscription on the mosque.

The mosque was built on the small Gebel Yashkur (“Hill of Thanksgiving”). A local legend claims that Noah's ark touched down here after the flood[2] and the surviving roofs were built from its wood.

The mosque formed the center of Ibn Tulun's emerging capital, Al-Qatta'i, not far from Fustat, from which the empire of the Tulunid dynasty he founded was ruled. The mosque was originally located next to the palace of Ibn Tulun, from which a door next to the minbar gave him direct access. Al-Qatta'i was destroyed in the early 10th century, the mosque is all that remains.

The mosque was built in the Samarra style combined with an Abbasid structure. It consists of a covered hall gallery surrounding the inner courtyard, with the largest hall pointing towards Mecca in the Qibla direction. The original mosque had its ablution fountain (sabil) in the area between the inner and outer walls. In the 13th century, Sultan Lajin had another sabil with a high domed roof added in the center of the inner courtyard.

Beautiful and Peaceful, with stunning views.
There is no entry fee, but you can donate when you enter.

This is a very old and historical mosque see wiki or other webpages for specific details.

It has a single Minaret & 2 Domes. Beautiful artwork all over cannot be missed. No entry ticket, offer 15-20 minutes to explore.

Upon entry they will ask for two types of donation, one for the mosque and one for the caretakers. Even if you give the donation to one of the 2 is fine. Upon entering the mosque you will need to wear plastic over your shoes/sandals since it is a mosque. The mosque is not very clean and been maintained well and hence you can pray here but best to do wudu elsewhere since the wudu area is quite hidden.

This mosque is magnificent for being built in 8th century. Now it's almost abandoned and forgotten. You would only find some tourists here. The people looking after this temple force you to wear dirty shoe cover and donation.

Getting to the entrance of the mosque is a bit tricky and you may have to go around the mosque to see the police cars which is the entry gate to the mosque.