 Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country. Most, if not all, of its rulers were Muslim and encouraged the Muslim way of life. Therefore, it is very common to find many mosques in Cairo. These mosques vary in age, decorations and architecture as they were not built at the same time. Here are some examples of Cairo’s exceptional mosques:
- The Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun
This mosque was completed in 879 AD. It is one of Cairo’s oldest mosques and many consider it to be one of the greatest masterpieces of Islamic architecture. The mosque is also very rich in decoration and articulate detail.
- The El Azhar Mosque
The Fatimids built this mosque in 972. It is known as the world’s oldest university and the main theological seminary in the Islamic world. Over 250,000 of the world’s oldest, rarest and most valuable manuscripts are found in its library. Most of them handwritten, usually in pure gold and in outstanding calligraphy. 
- The Rifai Mosque
Built in 1911, this mosque is located at the foot of the Citadel. It was the final resting place of the Egyptian Royal family. As well, it houses the tomb of late Shah of Iran.
- The Mosque of Sultan Hassan
This mosque was built in 1362 and it is also situated at the foot of the Citadel. It is one of Cairo’s most beautiful mosques. It is home to the four colleges of Islamic law and the tomb of its founder. The Sultan Hassan Mosque is considered to be Cairo's best example of early Mamluk architecture.
- The Mohamed Ali Mosque
Otherwise known as the Alabaster Mosque, this mosque was built in 1848 during the reign of Mohamed Ali, who is considered the father of modern Egypt. A Turkish architect built this mosque, according to the Sultan Ahamed Mosque in Istanbul. This multi-domed mosque dominates the eastern skyline of Cairo.
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