Among the most well-known historical sites in Cairo, Egypt, the Ibn Tulun Mosque stands out. Being one of the largest mosques in the world with a floor area of more than 26,000 square metres, this mosque is regarded as one of the oldest still in existence in the city. The Tulunid dynasty's founder Ahmed Ibn Tulun built the mosque in the ninth century. The mosque is a magnificent combination of Byzantine and Coptic architectural elements combined with Islamic design.
The mosque was started in 876 AD by Ahmed Ibn Tulun, a governor of Egypt during the Abbasid Caliphate. It was finished in 879 AD. The mosque was built atop a hill named Gebel Yashkur, which made for an excellent building site.
The mosque's architecture deviates from conventional Islamic design in that it has Byzantine and Coptic architectural influences. The mosque is made of brick, and ornate stucco work adorns the outside walls. The mosque's spiral minaret, the oldest still standing minaret in Egypt, is its most prominent feature.
The inside of the mosque is extraordinary; the more than 200 columns that support its wooden roof, the majority of which were salvaged from Roman and Egyptian structures, are from these eras. Being enough to hold 5,000 worshippers at once, the mosque's prayer hall is enormous. Another striking aspect of the mosque is the marble mihrab, which is embellished with beautiful geometric patterns.
Ibn Tulun's mosque has undergone numerous renovations and repairs throughout the years to maintain its original beauty and charm. The mosque had a sizable restoration in the 12th century during the Fatimid Caliphate's dominance and again in the 14th century during the Mamluk Sultanate's rule.
During the rule of Muhammad Ali Pasha, the creator of modern Egypt, in the 19th century, the mosque underwent yet another massive restoration. Around ten years were spent on the restoration project, which was supervised by a French architect. Since its reopening in 1885, the mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Ibn Tulun Mosque is a singular and stunning example of Islamic architecture that demonstrates the historical and cultural influences of the area. The mosque is not simply a place of worship but also a symbol of Egypt's vibrant past and present. Everyone interested in Islamic art and architecture or Egyptian history and culture must go there.
For future generations to understand the value of this historical site and gain knowledge from it, it is crucial to keep protecting and maintaining it. The mosque is a popular tourist destination that welcomes travellers from all over the world due to its beauty and uniqueness.
Find out our latest news, promotions, and professional tips. Know before you book your next Egypt tours
Egypt has many historical sites that you can visit and enjoy. Each tour is different and unique. If you go on a Nile cruise, you can visit Abu Simbel, Aswan, and Luxor in the South and enjoy the temples, tombs, and the treasures of the Nile. In the North, enjoy the Pyramids of Giza, The Egyptian Museum, Sakkara. Mosques, churches in Cairo, and many landmarks located in the city of Alexandria. On the East, Enjoy a beach tour for diving, snorkeling, and swimming in the Red sea. Every city has its charm, history, and flavor where you can do many tours and activities.
Your Egypt Tours is one of Egypt’s leading and most trusted travel agencies, known for its personalized service and expert care. As a top-rated company for Egypt tour packages, we ensure every Egypt trip is safe, seamless, and unforgettable, offering competitive prices, excellent customer service, and the highest standards of quality. With us, you’re always in good hands.
The average cost of a one-week trip in Egypt is around 1600 USD, including visits to tombs, temples, and a Nile cruise. Prices vary depending on the Egypt tours and the level of luxury you choose.
It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Egypt, as it’s highly chlorinated and may cause stomach issues for travelers. During your Egypt tours, it’s best to drink bottled water and use tap water only for washing or brushing your teeth.
The best time to enjoy Egypt tours is from September to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, temperatures are ideal for sightseeing and Nile cruises. Summer (May to September) can be very hot, but it’s also a good time for budget travelers.
Egypt is generally hot and sunny most of the year, with winter falling between November and January, and summer peaking from June to August. Winters are mild, while summers can get very hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan. The pleasant weather from September to March makes it the best time to enjoy Egypt tours and explore the country's top attractions comfortably.
Yes, Egypt is a very safe country to visit, with a low crime rate and strong security measures in all tourist areas. The government ensures that accommodations and attractions remain clean and well-monitored for travelers’ comfort. When you book Egypt tours, you’ll find professional guides and organized arrangements that make your trip worry-free and enjoyable.
Egypt offers adventures for every traveler. Explore the majestic Pyramids of Giza, sail along the Nile on a Luxury cruise between Luxor and Aswan, and discover ancient temples and tombs that tell the story of the Pharaohs. Dive or snorkel in the Red Sea at Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, or enjoy a relaxing beach escape. Book one of our Egypt tours to experience the perfect mix of history, culture in one unforgettable journey.
Yes, you can, summer is still a great time to explore Egypt! While temperatures can rise to around 45°C, seaside resorts like Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Marsa Alam offer refreshing escapes with diving and snorkeling opportunities. Sightseeing in the early morning or evening helps you avoid the midday heat. Summer also brings great deals on hotels and services, making it ideal for travelers on a budget. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Egypt tours during summer can still be an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Egypt has a modest dress code, especially for women, since it’s a Muslim country. Light, comfortable clothing is fine, but avoid short shorts or skirts. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. During Egypt tours, you can dress casually and comfortably; formal wear is optional unless you want to make your Nile cruise dinner extra special.
You can easily obtain a visa upon arrival at Cairo Airport, the process is simple for USA, UK, Canadian, Australian, and European citizens. The visa costs $25 USD and can be purchased at the visa office before immigration. You can also apply for an E-Visa through the official portal: www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. During your Egypt tours, our team can assist you with all visa-related inquiries to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
Your Egypt Tours travel agency recommends two weeks so that you can enjoy the temples and tombs of Luxor and Aswan, explore the sights of Cairo, and relax in the Red Sea islands and nature reserves.
The best Egypt Nile River cruise depends on your preferences, budget, and how many nights you wish to spend on board. For a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend a 5-star luxury Nile cruise that offers exceptional comfort and service. If you prefer a more private and intimate journey, choose a Dahabiya Nile cruise, ideal for small groups of around 15 people. For adventurous travelers, the traditional Felucca boats provide a simple and authentic way to sail the Nile during your Egypt tours, though they offer fewer amenities.
The best time to visit Egypt is generally from October to April where it is suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Egypt travel usually have guided tours to archaeological sites, museums, and historical landmarks. Also have optional activities may include hot air balloon rides over Luxor, snorkeling in the Red Sea, or desert safaris.
