Ibn Tulun Mosque, Cairo

Most people who visit Egypt understandably spend all of their sightseeing time looking at the pyramids, tombs and temples from the Pharaonic period. However, Egypt also offers some fascinating Islamic monuments, the most imposing of which is the Ibn Tulun Mosque.

Situated in Cairo, this mosque is oldest and the largest (in area) in all of Egypt. It was built in 876-879 AD and its notable features include a minaret with an external spiral staircase.

The mosque's minaret is visible in the background

The domed serbil in the central courtyard was added in the late 13th century.



The mosque, built of red brick plastered over with white stucco, is surrounded by a wall whose top is decorated with what looks almost like a string of paper-cut-out soldiers.

Looking out from the top of the surrounding wall

The graceful lines of the mosque's arches are supplemented by intricate carvings.