Citadel of Qaitbay: A Tourist's Guide

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century fort located on Egypt's Mediterranean coast. The Mamluk Sultan Qaitbay built it to defend the city of Alexandria from the Crusaders. 

The Citadel is a large, imposing fortification with high walls and numerous towers. It is one of the most important castle in the Mediterranean, spanning an area of about 2 hectares.

The Citadel has a long and eventful history. It has been described as "one of the most impressive medieval fortifications in the world", having been involved in several battles and sieges over the centuries.

Today, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a World Heritage Site and one of Alexandria's most popular tourist attractions. It is open to the public and also houses a .

This guide will explain the history and architecture of the Qaitbay Citadel. It will also attempt to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting the site, including:

Why Visit? When is the best time to travel? Is it safe? What souvenirs can I buy? How do you get there? - more.

Citadel Of Qaitbay History

The Citadel was built on the location of the ancient Pharos of Alexandria, the legendary lighthouse that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. An earthquake in the 14th century destroyed the Pharos, and its ruins were used to build the Citadel.

The Citadel played a vital role in defence of Alexandria during the Ottoman siege of 1517. It was the last Mamluk stronghold to fall to the Ottomans and the only one that did not surrender.

The Citadel remained in Ottoman hands until 1882 when it was captured by the British during the invasion of Egypt. The British used it as a military base and Prison until 1954, when they handed it over to the Egyptian government.

The Citadel is now a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the city of Alexandria. It is also home to the Qaitbay Fort Museum, which houses a collection of artefacts from the Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

Qaitbay Citadel Architecture

The Citadel is built in the Mamluk style, Islamic architecture. This style is characterized by its use of geometric patterns and decorative elements.

The Citadel is also known for using crenellations and decorative battlements to protect the fort from attackers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why visit the Qaitbay Citadel?

There are many reasons why travellers visit the Citadel of Qaitbay.

1. Firstly, the Citadel is an important historical site. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture. The Citadel was also the site of a major battle during the French Invasion of Egypt in 1798, when Napoleon Bonaparte and his troops attempted to capture the stronghold. As a result, the Citadel is a popular destination for history buffs and those interested in military history.
2. Secondly, the Citadel offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can see from the top of the fortress for miles in every direction. You can even see the Italian and Greek coasts on a clear day. The views from the Citadel are breathtaking and make it one of Alexandria's most popular tourist attractions.
3. Thirdly, the Citadel is now home to the Maritime Museum, which tells the story of Alexandria's rich maritime history.
4. Finally, the Citadel of Qaitbay is simply a beautiful place to visit. The fortress is incredibly well-preserved, and its architecture is awe-inspiring. Whether you are interested in history and culture or want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, Qaitbay Citadel is worth a visit.

Whether you are interested in history, beautiful views, or convenient location, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a great tourist destination for you.

Who will enjoy visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay?

Here are just a few of the different types of travellers who would enjoy visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay:

• History buffs: The Citadel of Qaitbay is a history lover's dream. The Citadel was built in the 15th century and had a rich history. Visitors can explore the different rooms and learn about the Citadel's history.
• Families: The Citadel of Qaitbay is an excellent place for families. The Citadel has kid-friendly activities and amenities, such as a playground and a swimming pool. Families can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and stunning ocean views.

No matter what type of traveller you are, the Citadel of Qaitbay will offer something for you. So, if you're looking for a great place to visit in Egypt, add the Citadel of Qaitbay to your list!

What is the best time to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay?

There is no exact answer to this question, as the best time to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay depends on several factors, including what you hope to see and do while you are there.

However, there are a few general things to remember that can help you decide when is the best time to visit the Citadel. 

The weather is one of the most important things to consider when visiting the Citadel. The Citadel is located in Egypt, on the Mediterranean Sea, meaning it has a typical Mediterranean climate. This means the temperatures are relatively mild throughout the year, except for the summer when it can get quite hot.

The best time to see the Citadel in terms of archaeology would be during the cooler spring or autumn months. 

Another factor to consider is what you want to see or do while in the Citadel. If you want to see the historical site, remember that it is an outdoor site. This means that summer can get quite hot.

The best time to visit the Citadel in terms of activities would be during the high season. 

 Suppose you are interested in participating in some of the activities the Citadel offers, such as the Sound and Light Show. In that case, you should note that these are typically only offered during the high season, which runs from April to September.

Overall, the best time to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay depends on several factors, including the weather and what you hope to see and do while you are there.

How do I get to the Alexandria and the Citadel of Qaitbay?

To get to the Citadel of Qaitbay, take the following steps:

1. To reach the Citadel, you will need to drive to the city of Alexandria. The best way to do this is to take the coastal road from Cairo. The journey takes around two hours.
2. Once you reach Alexandria, you will need to follow the signs to the Citadel. The Citadel is located on the city's east side, near the port.
3. There is a large car park near the entrance, so you should have no problem finding a space.
4. Once you have parked your car, you will need to walk to the entrance of the Citadel. The walk takes around 10 minutes.

Transportation choices if you need to commute:

1. If you are coming from Cairo, the best way to get to the Citadel of Qaitbay is by taking a train from Cairo to Alexandria. The journey takes about two hours, and the cost is very reasonable. Once you arrive in Alexandria, you can take a taxi or a bus to the Citadel of Qaitbay.
2. If you are coming from another city in Egypt, the best way to get to the Citadel of Qaitbay is by taking a bus. Many bus companies operate in Egypt and have different schedules and prices. Doing some research in advance to find the best option for you is best.

How much does it cost to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, and when is it open?

The cost of admission to the Citadel of Qaitbay is 30 Egyptian pounds for adults and 15 Egyptian pounds for children. The Citadel is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Note: Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change without notice.

What should I wear at the Citadel of Qaitbay?

These are the list of recommended clothing items to wear when visiting the Citadel:

• A light jacket or shawl. The Citadel is located on the Mediterranean coast and thus can be quite windy. A light jacket or poncho will help keep you warm.
• Comfortable shoes. When visiting the Citadel, you will walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Loose, comfortable clothing. Again, you will be doing a lot of walking and want to be comfortable.
• Hat or sunglasses. The sun can be pretty hot in Egypt, so a hat or sunglasses will help protect you from the sun.

The following items are not recommended to wear when visiting the Citadel:

-High heels. There are a lot of stairs at the Citadel, and high heels will make it difficult to walk.

-Short skirts or shorts. While Egypt is a very accepting country, it is still important to dress modestly when visiting religious and historical sites like the Citadel.

-Revealing clothing. Again, while Egypt is a very accepting country, it is still important to dress modestly when visiting public sites like the Citadel.

So there you have it, a list of recommended clothing items to wear when visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay. Dress modestly, wear comfortable shoes, and don't forget a hat or sunglasses!

How fit do I need to be?

To visit the Citadel, you do not need to be extremely fit. However, these are a few things to keep in mind.

First, the Citadel had high walls and many floors. Meaning there are a lot of stairs to climb. If you have trouble walking, you may find some areas of the citadel hard to access.

Second, once you are inside the Citadel, there is a lot of walking. The Citadel is quite large, with many different buildings to explore. If you are not used to walking long distances, you may want to take a break and rest often.

Finally, the Citadel is located in a hot climate. It can be pretty warm inside the Citadel, even in the winter. If you are not used to walking in hot weather, you may want to bring a water bottle and a hat.

Overall, you do not need to be extremely fit to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, but a moderate fitness level is recommended. However, it is vital to be prepared for a lot of walking. If you have any concerns about your ability to visit the Citadel, you should consult with your doctor before you travel.

Is it safe to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay?

There have been some safety concerns about travelling to Egypt generally over the years, and some people are wondering if it is still safe to visit.

Despite these safety concerns, the Citadel is still a popular tourist destination, and millions of people visit it yearly. The Egyptian government has increased security at the Citadel, and more police and soldiers are now patrolling the area. The government has also installed security cameras, and there are now security checkpoints at the entrance to the Citadel.

If you plan to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, it is important to be aware of the safety concerns. However, the Egyptian government has taken steps to improve security, and the Citadel is still a popular tourist destination.

Safety Recommendations

There are several safety recommendations for visitors to the Citadel of Qaitbay.

1. First, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in any situation, it is important to remove yourself from the situation.
2. Second, it is important to travel in groups, especially if you are a woman. There is safety in numbers, and you are less likely to be targeted.
3. Third, it is important to know the local laws and customs. In Egypt, showing skin above the knee or elbow is considered very disrespectful. It is also essential to dress modestly in general.
4. Fourth, it is important to avoid isolated areas. Stick to well-lit and well-populated areas, and do not wander off the beaten path.
5. Finally, it is important to have a backup plan. Make sure you know the number of the local police station and have a way to contact them in case of an emergency.

By following these safety recommendations, you can help to ensure that your visit to the Citadel of Qaitbay is safe and enjoyable.

What souvenirs can I buy?

There are many souvenirs available for purchase in the area around Citadel of Qaitbay. These are some of the unique souvenirs for visitors:

1. Statues of Pharaohs and other ancient Egyptian artefacts: These make great conversation pieces and look great as desktop ornaments. They are also great gifts for history buffs.
2. Mummified animals: A must-have for animal lovers, these mummified animals make great conversation starters and are perfect for those who appreciate the macabre.
3. Papyrus scrolls: For the literary-minded, papyrus scrolls make for great wall hangings or desktop decorations. They are also perfect gifts for those who love to read.
4. Pharaonic jewellery: Adorn yourself with the same jewellery that the ancient Egyptians wore. These beautiful pieces make great conversation starters and are perfect for special occasions.
5. Bastet statues: The goddess of love and protector of cats, Bastet is one of the most famous Egyptian deities. Her statues make for great home decorations and are perfect for cat lovers.
6. Anubis statues: The god of the dead, Anubis, is one of the most famous Egyptian deities. His statues make great home decorations and are perfect for those who appreciate the macabre.
7. Egyptian headdresses: Dress like a Pharaoh with an Egyptian headdress. These beautiful headdresses are perfect for special occasions and great conversation starters.
8. Egyptian coffins: For the ultimate in-home decoration, why not have your Egyptian coffin? These unique pieces are perfect for those who appreciate macabre.
9. Canopic jars: These jars were used by the ancient Egyptians to store the organs of the deceased. They make great conversation pieces and are perfect for those who appreciate the macabre.
10. Scarabs: These beetle-like amulets were popular among the ancient Egyptians. They make great conversation starters and are perfect for those who love history and mythology.

Many souvenirs are specific to the Citadel of Qaitbay, such as key chains, magnets, and postcards.

When choosing souvenirs from the Citadel of Qaitbay, it is important to consider the quality of the products. Many of the souvenirs are mass-produced and of low quality. It is best to purchase souvenirs from reputable shops that guarantee quality.

What else can I do at the Citadel of Qaitbay?

There are several activities that you can do at the Citadel of Qaitbay.

• You can explore the Citadel itself. The Citadel is a large complex with a lot to see. You can wander around the grounds, admiring the architecture and learning about the history of the Citadel.
• Visit the Qaitbay Fort Maritime Museum. This museum is located inside the Citadel and contains several exhibits on the maritime history of the Citadel and the city of Alexandria.
• Go to the top of the Citadel walls and enjoy the views. The walls of the Citadel are very high, and from the top, you can see for miles in all directions.
• If you are seeking a more active activity, you can also go for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. There are several beaches located nearby, and the water is typically hot.
• You can visit the Alexandria Aquarium which is situated near the entrance to the citadel and is a great place to keep the children entertained.
• Finally, you can take a boat trip from the Citadel to the nearby underwater site of the ancient island of Pharos. This submerged island was the home to the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

So, as you can see, there is much to do at the Citadel of Qaitbay. Whether you want to learn about history, enjoy the views, or take a stroll, the Citadel is the perfect place for you.

What useful tips do you have for visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay?

The Citadel is open to the public and is well worth a visit. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

First, the Citadel is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm. You will need to purchase a ticket to enter.

Second, it is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes as a lot of walking is involved in exploring the Citadel. There are several stairs to climb, and the ground is uneven. There is also a lot of sun, so it is important to wear sunscreen and a hat.

Third, the Citadel is home to several interesting historical sites. The main area is the fortress, built in the 15th century. Other notable sites include the museum. The museum is home to several artefacts from the Citadel, and it is worth a visit.

Fourth, there are a few things to keep in mind when taking photos:

1. Be respectful when taking photos, especially of the locals.
2. Do not use a flash where signs forbid it.
3. Be aware of your surroundings when taking photos of the Citadel walls, as other tourist also want to explore the citadel, and it can be easy to get in their way.

Overall, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a great place to visit. There is a lot to see and do; it is a great way to learn about Egyptian history. Keep these tips in mind when planning your visit, and you will have a great time.