Cairo
09:00:00
17:00:00
10.79$ per Adult
The Citadel of Salah al-Din, also known as the Cairo Citadel, stands as a monumental testament to Egypt’s rich Islamic heritage and military architecture. Perched atop the Mokattam Hills, this formidable fortress offers panoramic views of Cairo and has played a pivotal role in the city’s history since its inception.
Commissioned by Sultan Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi in 1176 CE, the Citadel was constructed to fortify Cairo against potential Crusader invasions. Drawing inspiration from the walled citadels of Damascus and Aleppo, Salah al-Din envisioned a stronghold that would serve both defensive and administrative purposes. Although he initiated the construction, it was completed in 1207 CE under the reign of Sultan al-Kamil ibn al-Adel, who made it the official residence of Egypt’s rulers.
The Citadel’s expansive complex houses several significant structures:
Mosque of Muhammad Ali: An iconic Ottoman-style mosque built between 1830 and 1848, renowned for its impressive domes and towering minarets.
Mosque of al-Nasir Muhammad: Dating back to the Mamluk era, this mosque showcases intricate Islamic architecture and served as the royal mosque during the 14th century.
Suleiman Pasha Mosque: One of the earliest Ottoman mosques in Cairo, reflecting a blend of Ottoman and Mamluk architectural styles.
These edifices not only highlight the Citadel’s architectural diversity but also its evolution through various Islamic dynasties.
Beyond its religious and military structures, the Citadel is home to several museums that offer insights into Egypt’s rich history:
Al-Gawhara Palace Museum: Commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha in 1814, this palace showcases opulent interiors and houses artifacts from his reign.
Military Museum: Established in 1937 and relocated to the Citadel in 1949, it chronicles Egypt’s military history through various exhibits.
Carriage Museum: Inaugurated in 1983, it displays a collection of royal carriages and related artifacts from different historical periods.
Police Museum: Located near Bab al-‘Alam, this museum delves into Egypt’s law enforcement history and notable criminal cases.
The Citadel’s placement atop the Mokattam Hills was strategic, offering a vantage point to monitor and defend against potential threats. Today, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Cairo, with landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza visible on clear days.
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