According to legend, this particular style of the staircase was abandoned as it allowed the muezzin to spot undressed women in their homes as he climbed to deliver daily calls to prayer. Visiting Mosques Mosques are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. except Friday, when they are either completely closed or are closed during early-afternoon prayer times. Admission to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun is 6 Egyptian pounds plus tip. And wear shoes that slip easily on and off. The best way to see Islamic Cairo is on foot.
Local guides are available for hire.