Citadel of Qaitbay
- Perched on the northern side of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay stands as a formidable guardian over the Mediterranean coast. Constructed in the late 15th century during the reign of Sultan Al-Ashraf Abu Al-Nasr Qaitbay, this Mamluk-era fortress spans an impressive 17,550 square meters, embodying the essence of ancient military architecture.
- The citadel was built on the historic site of the Pharos Island, once home to the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Its strategic position at the eastern mouth of the port made it a crucial defense point against Ottoman threats and other dangers to Egypt and the Arab world. To fortify its defenses, Sultan Qaitbay equipped the castle with state-of-the-art weaponry and reinforced its structures.
- The fortress’s design includes robust external walls with defensive towers at each corner, creating an imposing barrier against invaders. At the heart of the citadel lies a towering square structure, rising 17 meters from the ground, with a base spanning 30 meters. This central tower once served as a lookout and command center.
- Inside, the citadel is a two-story marvel. The first floor housed a mosque and defensive corridors for soldiers, while the second floor contained the sultan’s and leaders’ rooms, along with a mill and a bakery. These facilities ensured the fortress could withstand prolonged sieges.
- Today, the Citadel of Qaitbay offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt's past. Visitors can explore its stone-walled rooms, intricate corridors, and a marine museum showcasing artifacts from Roman and Napoleonic naval battles. Despite suffering damage during the British occupation in 1882, the citadel was meticulously restored in 1904, preserving its grandeur for future generations.
- Overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean, the Citadel of Qaitbay remains a testament to the architectural ingenuity and historical significance of Egypt's coastal defenses.
