February 15, 2025 9:30 am

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.

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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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Qaitbay Fort

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Amazing tour to the pyramids of Sakkara and Dahshur

January 1, 2025

This week we had a great tour with Mohamed to the pyramids of Sakkara and Dahshur as well as Memphis. He tailored the tour to our preferences, took a lot of time with us and gave us detailed background information on everything. It was also great that he never tired of taking the time to answer our many questions.

You can definitely tell that he has studied Egyptology as he has a very deep understanding of the subject and can explain everything well. He also speaks perfect English and is really good driver.

We would definitely book a tour with him again in a heartbeat and would recommend him to anyone. 🙂

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Christina Gaedcke

Amazing Egypt Fun Tours

December 22, 2024

Highly Recommend Egypt Fun Tours!

Several weeks ago, I reached out to Egypt Fun Tours regarding a 9-hour layover in Cairo. From the very beginning, Hani Ahmed was responsive and professional, quickly providing a well-organized itinerary tailored to our limited time. The itinerary included a visit to the pyramids, other historical sites, a delicious dinner, and even a quick stop for souvenir shopping.

Upon arrival, Gilman efficiently assisted us in obtaining our day tourist visas (note: $25 per person in cash). She then introduced us to our guide, Mydo, who was absolutely phenomenal! Mydo’s knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to adjust the tour to our pace made the experience unforgettable.

We returned to the airport with plenty of time to relax before our flight. The entire experience was smooth, stress-free, and incredibly memorable. Egypt Fun Tours offers reasonable prices for a private, customized experience that truly exceeds expectations. Thank you, Egypt Fun Tours! We will definitely use your services again in the future.

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Alexandria! Wow!

November 7, 2024

Muhammad is the best! He showed me a world I never thought possible! The tombs in Alexandria by far was my favorite! I never knew there was a place on earth that contained both Greek and Egyptian carvings in the same tombs! The history and culture of Egypt is so fascinating! I highly recommend booking with Muhammad!

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James Risenhoover

Tour of Cairo

November 4, 2024

Despite a late start due to car trouble, Mohamed more than made up for it with his incredible knowledge and dedication. His explanations were detailed and thoughtful, and he went above and beyond to make sure we had a great experience. A memorable and informative tour, thanks to Mohamed’s hard work!

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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
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