Saladin Citadel in Cairo, commonly known as Saladin, was born in 1138 in Mesopotamia in a village belonging to the Kurds along the Tigris River. He emerged as a prominent leader in Islamic history during the late 12th century, assuming the roles of Sultan in Syria and Egypt. His conquest of Jerusalem in 1187 made him a formidable adversary to Crusader forces in the Holy Land.
As a skilled strategist and influential political figure, Saladin’s successful campaigns against Christian forces in Palestine solidified his place in history. He erected the Saladin Citadel in Cairo, an enduring symbol of his reign and a significant landmark globally.
During his rule in Egypt, Saladin reinstated the Sunni faith by establishing Quranic schools known as madrasas. These institutions, including those within the magnificent alabaster mosque in the Citadel, became instrumental in religious resurgence and education. Notably, the Battle of Arsuf witnessed a decisive defeat for the Crusaders against Saladin’s forces under the leadership of England’s King Richard the Lionheart, marking a turning point in the Kingdom of Jerusalem’s history and fostering a compromise between Christianity and Islam.
Saladin died in 1193 in Damascus following numerous military triumphs and charitable endeavors. His unwavering spirit and accomplishments made him an inspirational figure, appearing in literary works such as Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy.
In Arab Islamic culture today, Saladin remains revered as a heroic figure. Historically, he dethroned the Fatimid dynasty and established the Ayyubid caliphate in 1171 CE.
Understanding the potential threat from Crusader forces, Saladin initiated the construction of protective walls around Cairo and Fustat in 1176 AD and fortifications to safeguard the city from potential attacks.
Saladin’s legacy includes the construction of a fortress atop Mokattam Hill, although the castle remained unfinished as he passed away before its completion. Subsequently, Sultan Al-Kamil Ibn Al-Adl oversaw the castle’s reconstruction and utilized it as the official governmental seat, a precedent later followed by subsequent rulers, including Sultan Muhammad Ali, in choosing the Citadel as a governmental center.
Join our Luxury Nile Cruises for an exclusive journey through Egypt’s ancient wonders, where luxury meets adventure.
Building the Citadel
After the Fatimid dynasty fell, Saladin took steps to fortify Cairo by constructing the Cairo Citadel. This fortress was positioned strategically atop the Mokattam Peninsula and safeguarded the old city and its core. Its elevated location ensured optimal defense capabilities for the army. Built between 1183 and 1184, the Citadel was Egypt’s governmental hub until the late nineteenth century.
Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi didn’t witness the Citadel’s completion. Over the ensuing years, successive sultans enhanced the adjacent canal, improving water access by raising the Nile’s water levels, thereby supplying the Citadel more efficiently.
The continuous expansion of internal structures and outer fortifications persisted. This included reinforcing the southern walls, erecting the Al-Nasir Mosque, and establishing residential areas. Often mistaken as the Citadel of Muhammad Ali, this confusion stems from the Ottoman-style mosque dominating the Citadel, constructed post-1816.
Explore Egypt’s hidden gems in an intimate setting with our Luxury Small Group Tours Egypt. Personalized experiences and luxury await.
Salah El Din Al Ayouby Citadel Facts
- Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi was responsible for its construction.
- The initial phase of the Cairo Citadel’s construction took place in 1176.
- Since 1976, it has been safeguarded as part of the Historic Cairo UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Citadel comprises three mosques: the Al-Marmar Mosque, the Al-Nasser Muhammad Mosque, and the Suleiman Pasha Mosque.
The History of Cairo Citadel (Saladin Citadel)
The Cairo Citadel is one of the most remarkable medieval sites globally, boasting the renowned Khedive Muhammad Ali mosque and various museums and historical landmarks. Among these are the National Police Museum and the Royal Carriage Museum.
Perched atop the Mokattam hills, the Citadel’s origins date back to the time of Muhammad Ali in the 1800s. It served as Cairo’s epicenter for subsequent caliphs, sultans, ministers, and Pashas.
Comprising three principal sections, the Citadel was initiated in 1176, with Saladin El-Ayyoubi overseeing the construction of the eastern walls and central fortress.
The southern enclosure features walls erected in the 19th century, stretching along the hill’s western edge. Access to the lower area primarily occurs through the entrance opposite the Sultan Hassan mosque.
The Citadel has three main areas:
- Saladin El-Ayyoubi oversaw the construction of the central fortress and the eastern walls in 1176.
- The southern enclosure, marked by 19th-century walls, and the lower enclosure stretch along the western edge of the hill, featuring its main gate facing the Sultan Hassan mosque.
The area was protected not only by the walls and towers but also by three gates:
- El Mokatam Gate is also referred to as Salah Salem Gate.
- Bab El Hadeed Gate, known as the Iron Gate
- Middle Gate
The Citadel of Saladin was a formidable fortification, shielding the city from its elevated position. Upon its completion in 1183 AD, the Citadel became the seat of government in Egypt, maintaining this status for seven centuries until the khedive Ismail relocated the government to the Abdin Palace in the 1870s.
Distinct from the original fortress constructed to defend against Crusader armies, the Citadel underwent substantial transformations over time, influenced by various foreign powers. Sultan Al Nasir Muhammed, for instance, erected a mosque bearing his name and an enclosure south of the fort adjacent to Saladin’s initial walls.
The most profound alterations occurred during Muhammed Ali’s reign in the 19th century. Eager to overthrow the ruling Mamluks, who had governed for six centuries, Muhammed Ali razed the palaces within the fortress. Notably, he commissioned the construction of the Alabaster Mosque, a renowned structure honoring his deceased son. This mosque stands as the pinnacle of the entire complex, distinguished by its unique architectural form, contributing to the Citadel’s distinctiveness in the cityscape.
Sail into luxury with our all-inclusive Luxury River Nile Cruises, where every detail is taken care of for your utmost comfort.
What to see inside the Saladin Citadel?
Saladin prioritized the safety and welfare of his soldiers, demonstrating his concerns by undertaking a significant engineering feat. He supervised digging a 90-meter-deep well from the ground level of the fortress, ensuring a reliable water source for soldiers during sieges—an impressive accomplishment that required considerable effort.
His creation of a substantial walled fortress in Cairo proved instrumental in safeguarding the city for numerous centuries. Within its confines stand mosques, palaces, museums, and various ancient public structures, among which the old mosque of Al-Nasir Muhammad stands out as a splendid representation of Arab architecture.
This historical site also accommodates the 19th-century Great Mosque of Mohammed Ali, a prominent highlight within the Citadel, sharing sacred space with the older structures and serving as a major attraction for visitors.
1- Mohammed Ali Mosque at Saladin Citadel
The Mohammed Ali Mosque, constructed between 1839 and 1857, was designed by an Ottoman Turkish architect, exhibiting a style distinct from Islamic and Egyptian architecture. Also known as the Alabaster Mosque due to its alabaster covering, it draws inspiration from Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia. Its remarkable 52-meter-high dome and two 85-meter-tall minarets feature hand-embroidered carpets, a grand chandelier, and a courtyard with an Ottoman-style dome over 50 meters high. Mohammed Ali’s tomb rests inside, and the terrace offers a splendid view of Cairo.
2- The National Military Museum in Egypt
Established in 1937, this museum was initially housed in the Ministry of Defense in Astronomical moved to various locations before settling in the Pyramid Palace within Cairo Citadel in 1949. It showcases Egypt’s military evolution through artifacts, replicas, dioramas, and scale models, depicting weaponry, military gear, significant battles, and leaders. It displays real tanks and planes from the October 1973 war in its outdoor area.
Combine the thrill of exploration with the luxury of relaxation on our Luxury Nile Cruise and Stay packages. The ultimate Egyptian adventure awaits.
3- Corner Tower (Tower of Tarfa)
Constructed in 1207, the Zawiya Tower, the Tower of Tarfa, is the only accessible tower within the Cairo Citadel. It was built by a member of the Kurdish family associated with Salah al-Din al-Mulk.
4- Gawhara Palace
Built for Mohammed Ali, the Gawhara Palace, or Bijou Palace, exemplifies Ottoman architecture in Cairo. Also known as Gawhara Hanem, after the governor’s wife, it is one of the city’s prime examples of Ottoman design.
5- Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosque
Dating back to 1318-1335, the Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosque, situated near the Mohammed Ali Mosque, remains well-preserved among the few Mamluk buildings within the Cairo Citadel. It boasts two entrances—one for soldiers and another exclusively for the Sultan’s use.
Stay in the most opulent Luxury Egypt Hotels and immerse yourself in the comfort and elegance that only Egypt can offer.
6- Dervish Theater
This 19th-century theater has been refurbished and features a courtyard, garden, and an exquisite facade. Its circular stage, crafted with waxed wood, is ideal for Sufi dancing—a practice performed by the Dervishes, who believe their spinning dance leads to spiritual unity with Allah.
7- Sulayman Pasha Mosque
Constructed in 1528 by Governor Sulayman Pasha, this mosque was the first of Ottoman origin in Egypt to feature a dome. Its design includes a garden, courtyard, and exterior walls adorned with minor domes covering arches. The prayer room boasts a central crown surrounded by three semi-domes, all intricately decorated with rich geometric and floral patterns. Additionally, it houses the tomb of Sariyat El-Gabal, a Pharimid saint, with rooms displaying Islamic art dating back to the 19th century.
8- Ancient Military Prison
Near the Police Museum, this prison, built during British rule in the 19th century, once housed cells that were used until 1983. Adjacent to the al-Nasir Muhammad mosque, it features a large portal leading to a vast green area.
9- Police Museum
Situated near the Old Military Prison, this museum exhibits the military and police history of Egypt from ancient times to the present. Its Gothic-style entrance leads to collections showcasing the country’s law enforcement development. The museum’s structure, including an imposing staircase and lion-carved friezes, is noteworthy.
10- Palace of Jewels
Also known as the Bijou Palace or Muhammad Ali Museum, this structure, built in 1814, initially served as a government building before housing jewels after 1952. Although not extensively filled with jewelry, the palace contains portraits, unique furniture, period clothing, and some jewelry items. Its Ottoman-style decorations harmonize with European royal palace aesthetics, featuring angelic statues, large mirrors, and thrones of precious materials.
11- The Ramparts, Walls, and Gates
The Citadel’s walls, constructed initially in 969 and fortified by Saladin in 1183, offer panoramic views of Cairo. Only three original ten gates remain today—one in the south and two in the north. These walls were reinforced to halt Napoleon’s advance in 1798, and they once housed cannons installed by the Crusaders.
Sail the timeless Nile in unparalleled luxury with our Luxury Egypt Tours with Nile Cruise. Discover ancient wonders from the comfort of your luxury vessel.
The Citadel today
Presently, Saladin’s Citadel stands as a self-contained city within Cairo. Despite its compact size, this historical fortification once housed more than 10,000 individuals and is organized into distinct quarters. Exploring this site allows visitors to discover numerous mosques renowned for their historical and architectural importance, palaces steeped in history, and various museums.
Moreover, owing to its elevated location, the Citadel offers a breathtaking panoramic view that spans a significant portion of Cairo. Visitors can marvel at the silhouette of the majestic Pyramids of Giza in the distance, further enhancing the unique experience of the Citadel’s vantage point.
Related articles: