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Mosque of Ibn Tulun

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Cairo ·
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Jun 17, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
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Majestic Mosque of Ibn Tulun

Constructed between AD 876 and AD 879, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun stands as one of the oldest functioning mosques in Egypt and Africa. Located in Cairo, it was founded by Ibn Tulun, an Abbasid governor, and remains significant for its historic and cultural value.

The mosque spans 2.5 hectares, featuring a vast courtyard surrounded by stucco arcades and an elegant spiral minaret inspired by the Mosque of Samarra in Iraq. It introduced architectural innovations including the pointed arch, predating European Gothic architecture.

Essential Highlights

  • 🕌 Spiral Minaret: An architectural marvel, accessible via an external staircase.
  • 🌅 Open Courtyard: Natural light floods the space, enhancing the serene ambiance.
  • 🎨 Stucco Decorations: Intricately carved decorations showcasing ancient craftsmanship.

The mosque is free to visit and attracts tourists, families, and historians alike looking to explore rich Islamic heritage.

Interesting Facts about Natural History MuseumMosque of Ibn Tulun

First Pointed Arch

Ibn Tulun Mosque is the first structure known to use the pointed arch, 200 years before its use in Gothic architecture.

Abbasid Governor

The mosque was founded by Ibn Tulun, an Abbasid governor from Baghdad, highlighting the historical ties between Egypt and Iraq.

Large Capacity

The mosque's design was meant to accommodate the entire community of Al Fustat for Friday prayers.

Location

Sharia Al Saliba

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