Citadel of Qaitbay

Citadel of Qaitbay

The Qaitbay Fort, also known as the Citadel of Qaitbay, is one of the most spectacular fortresses we can find in the world. It is noteworthy that it dates from the fifteenth century and, to enjoy it, we must move to Alexandria, Egypt.

Specifically, in the eastern part of the island of Faro. It was Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa’it Bay who had it built in 1477. Far from leaving everything there, he wanted to erect it in the same spot where the ruins of the historical lighthouse of Alexandria were located. His idea of fortifying this area was to intensify its defensive character against the feared Ottoman Empire which, at that time, was a real threat to Egypt.

Far from just building this Qaitbay Fort, a mosque was also built inside. The Citadel served its function during the Mamluk period, the Ottoman period, and even the Modern Age. Its power diminished considerably since 1882 when the British bombed Alexandria.

Citadel of Qaitbay Alexandria

The main tower is the most imposing structure of the complex. It is square in shape and its dimensions are 30 meters high and 17 meters on each side.

It has three levels with cylindrical towers at the four corners of the main building with small windows strategically distributed so that the archers could shoot their arrows in case of attack.

The second floor of the Qaitbay Citadel

The second floor of the citadel consists of several passages, a large number of small chambers and rooms, and some large rooms that were used for different purposes. Because the Citadel of Qaitbay is one of the most important complexes in Egypt, several kings and rulers have paid attention to it throughout history.

One of the first to make modifications to the fortress was Sultan El Ghory, the last Mamluk of the Burji dynasty that ruled Egypt (1501-1516). He renovated some sections, provided weapons and soldiers, and restored some parts in need of repair. The main building has three levels and a small but beautiful mosque that extends from the first floor to a beautiful dome built on the roof.

The rooftop is not open to the public. However, you can walk along the city walls, which stretch along all four sides of the grounds and offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean, the East Harbor, and the city itself.