Tulunids

The Tulunids were a dynasty of Turkic origin who ruled Egypt and parts of Syria from 868 to 905. They were established by Ahmad ibn Tulun, a soldier of fortune who was appointed governor of Egypt by the Abbasid Caliphate in 868. Ibn Tulun quickly consolidated his power, asserting his independence from the Abbasids and building a formidable military force.

Under Ibn Tulun's rule, Egypt experienced a period of prosperity and stability. He reformed the administration, encouraged trade and agriculture, and initiated ambitious building projects, most notably the Great Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Fustat, which remains a significant architectural landmark. His son, Khumarawayh, continued his father's policies, expanding the Tulunid territory and solidifying their independence.

However, the Tulunid dynasty's expansionist ambitions and growing defiance of the Abbasid Caliphate eventually led to their downfall. The Abbasids, under renewed strength, launched a military campaign to reclaim their lost territories. By 905, the Tulunids were defeated, and their rule over Egypt and Syria came to an end. Despite their relatively short reign, the Tulunids left a lasting impact on the history and architecture of Egypt.