It was built in the early 17th century as part of the Djami of Kethuda mosque[1][4] and used for the Muslim call to prayer (Adhan).

The mosque no longer exists, but the minaret survives as a preserved monument of Hungary and a major tourist attraction of Eger.

There are 98 steps on the spiral staircase inside, which leads to a balcony at 26 meters from the ground, offering unique views of the surrounding city.

[6] After human force failed, an attempt was made pull it down using 400 oxen with ropes fixed to the structure.

When the tower proved too resilient to demolition efforts it was allowed to remain after placing a cross on top of the surmounting crescent.

[5] In the early 19th century the minarets roof, called the original dome, had collapsed as a result of a lightning strike.

In 1829, a tin roof was placed on the tower by Archbishop Pyrker János László preserving it from the complete destruction.

[2] In 1897, restoration work was carried out on the minaret by the National Committee of the Monuments according to plans of István Möller.

[5] In 2016, a Turkish national named Demir Hikmet was permitted to become the muezzin (Caller) of the minaret and perform the Adhan or Muslim call to prayer after 327 years.

[7] The minaret was renovated again in 2018 due to deterioration in recent years which had greatly reduced its load-bearing capacity and placed the monument in danger.

Tourist are allowed to climb the 98 steps to the Minaret balcony and view the panorama of surrounding city and Eger Castle.

Those who suffer from claustrophobia and fear of heights are advised to be cautious in climbing the narrow staircase to the tower balcony.