Ahmad Ibn Tulun Mosque
Sayyida Zaynab
Walk across the vast courtyard of one of Cairo's oldest and most atmospheric mosques, built in the ninth century for the Tulunid capital of al-Qata'i and famous for its extraordinary spiral minaret and extensive stucco decoration.
Historical Overview
The mosque preserves one of Cairo's clearest architectural links with the Abbasid world. Its famous spiral minaret recalls the architectural tradition of Samarra in Iraq, while geometric and vegetal stucco ornament survives around the courtyard arcades and windows. A domed ablution fountain occupies the centre of the enormous courtyard. Construction began in 876 CE and was completed in 879 CE.
Why Visit?
For an architectural visitor, Ibn Tulun is one of the essential monuments in Cairo. Its scale, open courtyard and largely unified architectural character create a very different experience from the dense Mamluk monuments of Al-Muizz.
What to See
- Vast central courtyard
- Arcaded prayer halls
- Spiral minaret
- Stucco geometric decoration
- Domed ablution fountain
- Six mihrabs
Getting There
Destination / الوجهة
مسجد ابن طولون
Point to this and ask them to take you there
من فضلك وديني مسجد أحمد بن طولون
Public Transit Options
Metro
Sayyida Zeinab — Line 1
Recommended Route
Metro: Sayyida Zeinab -> short taxi/ride-hailing trip or walk
Media Gallery
The vast courtyard and iconic spiral minaret of Ibn Tulun Mosque
Good to Know
Best Combined With
Make the most of your visit by combining this with:Gayer-Anderson Museum,Sarghatmish Madrasa,Sabil Umm Abbas,Shaykhu Complex
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Plan Your Visit
- Duration: 45 - 60 mins
- Best Time: Daytime.
- Accessibility: Main courtyard accessibility needs current verification. Minaret step-free: false, accessed by stairs.