The massive edifice lies on the site that was once the Western Fatimid palace.
Byzantine influence is apparent throughout the monument.
A left-side entrance halfway down the long corridor leads to the four iwan madrasa , distributed around an open courtyard. The orientation of the sanctuary iwan overlooks Sharia al-Muizz. The main iwan's magnificence seems to have faded along the years due to poor preservation. An antechamber leads to perhaps the most unique and magnificently decorated mausoleum in Cairo, rich in every architectural and decorational aspect ranging from woodwork, inlaid marble to massive pharaonic pillars supporting the dome. The qibla niche is embedded with turquoise stones and colored marble.