November 3, 2024 3:03 am
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Qaitbay Fort

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Qaitbay Fort

The Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria: A Historical Marvel

The Citadel of Qaitbay, also known as Qaitbay Fort, is a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean coast in Alexandria, Egypt. This iconic structure stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity and strategic military planning of the Mamluk Sultanate. Built on the ruins of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a significant historical and cultural landmark.

Egypt Budget Holidays
Qaytbay fortress in Alexandria

Historical Background

The Qaitbay Fort was constructed between 1477 and 1479 AD by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qaitbay. The primary purpose of the fortress was to defend Alexandria from the advancing Ottoman Empire, which posed a significant threat during that period. The site chosen for the citadel was the exact location of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, which had been destroyed by a series of earthquakes by the 14th century.

Architectural Features

The Qaitbay Fort is renowned for its robust and strategic design. It is situated on the eastern side of the northern tip of Pharos Island, extending into Alexandria’s harbor from the corniche. The fortress is built in the Mamluk architectural style, incorporating elements of Islamic, Ottoman, and Mamluk designs, which contribute to its unique and visually striking appearance. The main tower of the citadel is a square-shaped structure, consisting of three floors, with dimensions of 30 meters in height and 17 meters on each side.

Tour to Cairo and Alexandria from Port Said - Egypt Fun Tours
Tour to Cairo and Alexandria from Port Said – Egypt Fun Tours

Qaitbay Fort Strategic Importance

The Qaitbay Fort played a crucial role in the defense of Alexandria and the broader Mediterranean region. It was part of a network of coastal fortifications designed to protect Egypt from naval invasions. The fortress was equipped with various defensive features, including arrow slits, oil drops, observation rooms, and weapon storage areas. During the Ottoman period, the citadel continued to serve as a vital stronghold, safeguarding the northern coasts of Egypt.

4 Days Deluxe Tour of Cairo and Alexandria - Egypt Fun Tours
4 Days Deluxe Tour of Cairo and Alexandria – Egypt Fun Tours

Restoration and Modern Use

Over the centuries, the Citadel of Qaitbay has undergone several periods of restoration and renovation. The most significant restoration work was carried out in 1984 by the Egyptian Antiquities Organization. The fortress was heavily damaged during the British bombardment of Alexandria in 1882 and was subsequently rebuilt around the turn of the 20th century. Today, the citadel houses a small naval museum and is a popular destination for tourists, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and a glimpse into Egypt’s rich history.

Cultural and Tourist Significance

The Citadel of Qaitbay is not only a monument of historical importance but also a symbol of Alexandria’s cultural heritage. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore its architectural beauty and historical significance. The site is open to the public and offers various amenities, including restaurants and shops, making it a vibrant part of Alexandria’s tourist landscape.

2 Days Cairo & Alexandria Tour from Soma Bay - Egypt Fun Tours
2 Days Cairo & Alexandria Tour from Soma Bay – Egypt Fun Tours

The Qaitbay Fort stands as a remarkable example of medieval military architecture and a symbol of Egypt’s rich historical legacy. Its strategic location, robust construction, and historical significance make it one of the most important landmarks in Alexandria. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, a visit to the Citadel of Qaitbay offers a unique and enriching experience, providing a window into the past and the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations.

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Embark on this special voyage to discover the wonders of ancient Egypt....

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AMAZING TOUR, SOLO TRAVELER.

October 12, 2024

I am a California woman who traveled to Egypt alone and thanks to Egypt Fun Tours I had a great time. Hani, Mohammed, Kamal and David (my driver) were very professional and very knowledgeable, I appreciate how respectful they were and how protective they were with me.

They show me everything I wanted to see in Cairo and nearby places like Saqqara, Memphis, etc. Thanks to them I had a great time in Egypt, they were so so helpful than on my second day they helped me to move from my hotel in Giza to the Steigenberger hotel in downtown Cairo.

The tour price is super good includes a guide (expert in the field) a driver, lunch and drinks, they took me to amazing places for lunch, the food was super super delicious, for a foodie like me that was a highlight. We went out fo the tourist traps and I got to see the Cairo that if you are in a bus tour you will never get to see.

This tour is personalized for each person depending of what you want to see and do, I absolutely love it.

I used WhatsApp to communicate with Hani and arranged all my tours, Hani was super super nice since the moment I contacted him and explained him what I wanted to do and see.

Hani and his group mesmerized me with the tours they put together, this is a memory I will keep for lifetime.

I had only good things to say about them and I highly recommend them.

I did visit the pyramids in Giza, downtown Cairo, new Cairo, several museums, Coptic Cairo and Muslim Cairo with them and I learned a lot from them, I felt like they were family to me and it was EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT.

If I go back to Egypt I will hire them again without hesitation.

David I take my hat off for you because I have NO IDEA how you can drive in crazy Cairo, thanks to all of you for making this lady’s dream a reality.

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Ladylalique - California

My Dream Came True

October 12, 2024

I had waited 60 years to get to Egypt, in fact it was my 60th birthday gift to myself. I went with my oldest daughter and the experience was excellent. It was meticulously planned by the tour company and was designed for me and my daughter. I never had a minute where I was concerned. We were met by a tour rep at the airport and every step of the way. The guides were beyond expectations. Mydo the best tour guide of Egypt was excellent and very knowledgeable. Tarek our guide for the south, was equally as knowledgeable. I can’t say enough about both. Hani the tour director is the greatest, personable and so very helpful and truly cares that you have the best experience of your life. It was a dream come true. All the holidays we stayed at were 5 star in my opinion. I don’t have a bad word to say about this tour company. My daughter and I were treated exceptionally well by all and by all in Egypt

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Jan K

Islamic cairo and khan el khalili- great tour

September 28, 2024

Wonderful tour with the guide Hamada. I did not feel rushed at all, he explained a lot of facts about the city, the mosque , the water storage room, and also brought me to no hassle shops. He picked a great place to eat and have Turkish coffee and a cold lemon mint drink. We took a took took when we got tired from walking. He also happens to be a great photographer and helped take beautiful pictures. Overall a wonderful tour and great experience.

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Janet

Big tick off our bucket list!

August 29, 2024

Booked the evening before and were able to do everything we hoped to in a day, with a knowledgeable guide & at a reasonable price! Lunch was included and absolutely delicious! Learnt about the history of Egypt which was the most important part of sightseeing Cairo/Giza. Hamada also gave us recommendations for the rest of our Egypt trip. HIGHLY recommend! Thanks Hamada 🙂

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Brenda

A great day!!!!

August 29, 2024

Thank you Hamada for an incredible day!

Thank you for the stories and the history, you are so knowledgeable and we didn’t feel rushed at all or like we missed out on things, will definitely be recommending this tour to everyone 🙂

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Britt Brenda
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