The mosque of Ibn-Tulun is the second of antiquity in Cairo and in ancient times was used as an administrative building. She was named in honor of the Governor of the Abbasids in Egypt, Ahmad Ibn Tulun, and initially was close to his Palace. Erected the mosque of Ibn-Tulun was in 879 ad on a small hill, on which, according to local legend, Noah's ark stopped after the flood.

The mosque of Ibn-Tulun was built in the style of the Great mosque in Samarra (Iraq). Up to now the mosque has preserved its appearance, which she had since the mid-19th century the Temple is a huge rectangular fortress, which is surrounded by a massive wall, adorned with battlements. The mosque has a square courtyard with arcades on three sides, under which there is an indoor hall. The courtyard is paved with stone and in the middle of it is a fountain for ablutions. Above the fountain was later erected an arched structure. From the South yard passes in the hall for prayers. The minaret was designed in the form of a spiral, which is a feature of this mosque. The walls were made of brick and covered with plaster – this method of construction was uncharacteristic for the Egypt of that time, he borrowed from the masters of Baghdad.

The mosque has undergone various reconstructions and restorations. The last update occurred in 2004. In medieval times, near the walls of the temple were built several buildings, most of which were destroyed in the 30 years of the 20th century there were two buildings, called "House of Chinese women" and "the House of Omni, daughters of Salem", which were later connected by a bridge at the level of the fourth floor.

Initially, this mosque was built as a Church for mass, prayers that could accommodate all residents at Friday's service. According to the legend, the plan of the mosque was designed by architect Christian, whose specially was released from prison where he was sitting. However, the name of the architect is not preserved.

The minaret of the mosque can be seen from the farthest corners of the city.