If one has time to visit only one Islamic monument in Cairo, it should be this one.Its simplicity and grandeur of scale make it the most moving of the great mosques.Built between 876 and 879 AD, it is the oldest mosque in Cairo that remains essentially as it was built. Its inspiration is almost exclusively Mesopotamian as Ahmad ibn Tulun, the ruler of Egypt at the time, came from Bagdad as a representative of the Abbasid caliph.Ibn Tulun razed the Christian and Jewish cemetery to build the mosque in their place, on top of the hill. The legend says that Noah’s ark had landed here after the flood.The crenellation above the walls is amazing: it bears a resemblance of human figures with linked arms. Its weird but they seem designed by Keith Haring!Another interesting feature is the minaret, with a spiral staircase on the outside, inspired by the ziggurats of ancient Babylon. Climbing the stairs to the top of minaret worth the efforts as the panoramic views are exceptional.
The biggest mosque and the oldest in all of cairo. Boasting a huge courtyard and a minerat that you can actually climb for a perfect view of the all monument and surrounding neighbourhoods of cairo. Beware the beggars inside they will ask for money and some people will want to guide you inside for a tip.
It is one of the oldest mosques in Egypt as well as the whole of Africa surviving in its full original form, and is the largest mosque in Cairo in terms of land area. Since Ibn Tulun Mosque has much open space, it boasts both sunlight and shadows. It is built around an open square courtyard which allows natural light to travel through. Ibn Tulun Mosque features ancient architecture styles of Egypt, its decorations being created from carved stucco and wood.This mosque is a popular tourist attraction.
Visited the area some weeks ago after a long break, was really surprised that you can climb the minaret now! Just amazing, although not that secure yet, as not finished yet the fence and really hard to go up the stairs, but very recommended as views of Cairo are astonishing. You can even walk over the mosques wall if you do not want to go over the minaret.
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 its 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.After a quick browse around you can visit the minaret from the other side of the building, entry is just below the minaret.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.
An outstanding islamic mosque which represents the greatness of its era. But unfortunately it needs care to represent such a great religion and culture. But anyway, i recommend it to anyone who is interested in history and architecture, especially islamic, whether youre Egyptian or foreigner, you have to visit this mosque. And btw, its a stunning place for taking photographs of yourself, your folk and especially for couples.
I read if a person only visits one mosque, it should be this one. While I am not sure about that (Sultan Hassan is more amazing) this mosque is a great place to visit and it is so grand.
The Mosque of Ibn Tulun🕌 (Arabic: مسجد إبن طولون, : Masjid Ibn Ṭūlūn) is located in Cairo, Egypt. It is the oldest mosque in Egypt as well as the whole of Africa surviving in its full original form, and is the largest mosque in Cairo in terms of land area. Since Ibn Tulun Mosque has much open space, it boasts both sunlight and shadows. It is built around an open square courtyard which allows natural light to travel through. Ibn Tulun Mosque features Samarra style - its decorations being created from carved stucco and wood. This mosque is a popular tourist attraction.*free visit with no tickets 🎟 chargeAsk for maazna to go up at the top and see ancient cairo
Amazing, vibrant and stunning old mosque, loaded in old Cairo. You can get access to the top of the minaret and have a 360 view of the whole old Town! Recommended!
This mosque may look like other old mosques of Islamic style but it contains a lot of amazing detail in the decoration and shape of the lighthouse and even the windows and doors strikingly impressive and the method of sculpture wonderful.I am lucky to have been able to climb to the top of the lighthouse and see Cairo and breathe the air from the top, it is amazing you try it guys and hope how the old able to build the serum of this wonderful and inspiring edifice.
Its a beautiful place but its in a state of disrepair and abandon. If you visit the mosque climb the minaret, its 40 metres above the street and you can see a huge stretch of Cairo from it.
One of my favourite mosque in Cairo. Its so old, large and unique. We can go up and see the city from the top. But, we should pay to go up and have limit time. Good moment to go is when the sunset will be happened. Its amazing scenery. From the top, we can see the roof of mosque and mosque of Muhammad Ali. Although its little bit dangerous on the top but its worth it. Just br careful! Unfortunately, the mosque cant use for pray.
The austerely simple architecture rising up from a crowded ancient Cairo neighborhood guarantees that this Mosque will remain imprinted in your imagination.
The best place to visit if you are interested in Islamic decorations as it is well preserved since 877 thanks to the restoration made by the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities in 2004.Make sure to visit each place there and also to go up minaret Ibn Tulun.Definitely Ill be there again soon♥P.S. my pics of there😊
Amazing and a very spiritual experience for any faith. God bless Egypt
Its in the middle of the city, yet its quiet and tranquil.
Ancient place that worth visiting, beautiful architectural scapes,, full of positive energy.
One of the ancient mosques of Cairo, home to a beautiful square minaret which you can climb and gain access to the first floor (overlooking the courtyard) and also right to the top of the minaret via stone steps. The mosque itself is wonderful and the stone architecture is stunning. It is open during the day and tourists should expect to pay 15-20 Egyptian pounds to one of the men seated inside, they will give you some shoe covers and you are then free to walk around as you please. Check out the massive noticeboards with information on the history of the mosque and the extensive refurbishment work.
A historical mosque with a wide courtyard & nice architecture. It is relatively huge compared to other similarly-shaped mosques in Cairo. It is popularly known for its spiral minaret at one side of the courtyard (which is also depicted on the 5 Egyptian Pound note). Sometimes if you’re lucky, you can go up the minaret & see the beautiful view of Cairo.Being in the middle of the slums area, the location is quite hard to reach due to narrow streets, and not that easy to park your vehicle outside too. It is not that well-maintained, which made it looked more seasoned & authentic.Prayers are routinely performed here, but the Jumaah prayers aren’t. And the museum complex nearby is quite interesting to see.
Nice place to take photos, but beware of the assertive workers pushing you to use the shoe covers. I suggest using them because the place is a bit dirty, but tip what you feel is appropriate, not what they pressure you to feel. After I tipped they tried to get me to tip again for my girlfriend and then again when leaving.
The mosque is located in a slightly elevated region of the Sayyida Zaynab district, in al-Khudairi Street.Date of the monument : Hegira 265 / AD 879Period / dynasty : Tulunid State, Abbasid periodPatron : Ahmad ibn Tulun (r. AH 254-270 / AD 868-84) who established the Tulunid state (AH 254-92 / AD 868-905).The building was restored several times, notably between 1296 and 1299, when the wall facing Mecca and the minaret—which has three floors, each in a different shape (square, spiral, and octagonal)—were rebuilt. It was used as a belt factory in the 18th century and was divided into shops in 1814. Classed as a historic monument in 1890, the mosque has since been completely restored.
Huge mosque but needs alot of maintenance
The oldest, most peaceful and authentic mosque in Cairo. Located in the heart of the city, no tickets required. Never being crowded as its really one of the hidden gems of the city. The location could be tricky if you try to walk to it. Need to use a car with GPS to reach the mosque 🕌 I highly recommend it.
Nice view of the city from the top of its minaret, and the rooftop of the mosque, but not clean enough inside, the oldest mosque in Cairo still maintaining its original shape and size, 9th century
An amazing visit, the mosque is so broadly spaced and beautifully open to the sky. The climb of the minaret totally thrilled the boys and the care takers were very sweet. We also visited the neighboring house, known as the Gayer Anderson museum, which was another amazing experience that takes you back in history like a time machine.
They won’t let you in if you don’t pay (and it should be free entry as a religious sight). More haggling than sightseeing
The oldest mosque in Cairo to have retained its original appearance (9C). But it is not only the oldest mosque in the city surviving in its original form, it is the largest mosque in Cairo in terms of land area. The mosque was commissioned by Ahmad ibn Tulun, the Turkic Abbassid governor of Egypt from 868–884. The mosque was constructed in the Samarran style common with Abbasid constructions. Great view over Cairo from the Minaret.
History at its bestLoved old cairo
Really expansive and cool mosque. Definitely worth a visit, but would have been 5 stars if the shoe attendant and posse werent so pushy about tips. They will nearly force you into a tip on the way in and way out, saying you need to tip the shoe attendant and donate for Allah with big bills. Dont let him fool you, just get your shoe covers, tip the shoe attendant 5 or pounds or so and move on. Even if he tells you to tip more. Try to enjoy the mosque despite the obnoxious behavior.
One of my favorite ancient mosques in Cairo, it`s near to the Citadel in Islamic area. It looks really wonderful for the people, who appreciate Islamic style architecture and ancient monuments. I was there in time after it was renovated, although there were very few people there. Maybe it`s not as so much interest for the tourist, as it is situated in the more poor areas...But for me it was great experience and I won`t forget it!
You must visit at least once. Try to climb the minaret.. View from the top is breathtaking! The serene scene inside the mosque is not found in many other places of course the architecture is awe inspiring.
A beautiful mosque with historic significance in Cairo. Not usually busy. Its a nice hangout spot. You often find photographers and artists inside trying to capture the best views. Climb the minaret. Wonderful views! There is no ticket needed to enter. Give the guardians 10-15 le per person entering (or whatever you want).
Lovely old mosque, and quite large. The view from the minaret was neat, you can see how big the mosque really is, and great views of Cairo.
Its a privilege to visit a building as austerely plain yet airy and beautiful as this Abbasid Mosque, possibly the largest and oldest in Cairo (879AD). Note the spiral minaret and the extraordinary Dikka screen and please make a donation the Mosque as you leave.
A place of peace and quiet, its big enough to isolate the noise of the streets for the prayers, climbing the minaret was very exciting and it is windy up there, the hole place is nice. You feel like you went back in time during the silk road theme.
Its amazing mosque and good place to visit and there is a lot of places surrounded
One of the oldest mosques in the world. Not maintained well. Almost empty and full of dust. Nothing particular to see other than the building.There is an unnecessary practice of putting a cloth cover over your shoes. Its just a measure to extract baksheesh from you. And they are never satisfied, so the best way is not to pay at all.
This is a very old and historical mosque see wiki or other webpages for specific details.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.After a quick browse around you can visit the minaret from the other side of the building, entry is just below the minaret.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.
Wry nice placeTraditional
ThiS is one of my favorite mosques in Cairo. Very unique in its design, spaces space for praying, open and closed areas of being in your own. It’s great they the minaratet is also open to climb up, so you can Sea an amazing view of old cairo from above but also to the mosque and its surroundings.
Nice place to visit, make sure you climb the minaret for the nice view of Cairo.
Built between 876 and 879 AD, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun is one of the oldest mosques in Cairo. It was commissioned by Ahmad ibn Ţūlūn, the Abbassid governor of Egypt. The mosque is constructed around a courtyard, with one covered hall on each of the four sides. The minaret, which features a helical outer staircase similar to that of the famous minaret in Samarra, was probably built several centuries later. Parts of the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me were filmed at the Mosque of Ibn Tulun.
Historical ancient mosque that deserves a visit. Also an adjacent museum Gayer Anderson is a must see. Recommended after a visit of Salah Eldeen Citadel and Mohammed Ali Mosque as they nearby. You need to read about them all or hire a local guide.