At a glance
Rating breakdown
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5 ★76%
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4 ★12%
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3 ★6%
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2 ★2%
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1 ★3%
Quick facts
- What is the rating of qaytbay castle?
- qaytbay castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 89 reviews.
- Where is qaytbay castle located?
- 6V7P+F5C، السيالة شرق، قسم الجمرك،, Egypt
We booked the tickets in advance and we didn’t need to wait in line to buy them or to enter the castel.
The castel itself is well preserved, has a wonderful view over the city’s coastline and it’s worth visiting it since it’s very different from everything else in Alexandria.
The castel itself is well preserved, has a wonderful view over the city’s coastline and it’s worth visiting it since it’s very different from everything else in Alexandria.
Sultan Qaitbey built this picturesque fortress during the 14th century to defend Alexandria from the advances of the Ottoman Empire. His efforts were in vain since the Ottomans took control of Egypt in 1512, but the fortress has remained, strategically located on a thin arm of land that extends out into Alexandria’s harbor from the corniche.
The fortress’ current form is not the original. It was heavily damaged during the British bombardment of Alexandria during a nationalist uprising against British hegemony in 1882 and rebuilt around the turn of the 20th century.
As with most things in Alexandria, the building itself is not what is most significant about this location. Qaitbey built the fortress here to take advantage of an exist foundation on the site—that of the legendary Pharos Lighthouse, which by the 14th century had fallen into ruins due to repeated damage by earthquakes.
The largest stones of the citadel, forming the lintel and doorway of its entrance, as well as the red granite columns in the mosque within the walls, are probably also salvaged from the huge tower that once stood here.
The citadel has long since given up any military function. Today it houses a small naval museum, but it might be worth a visit to explore the inside of the fortress and imagine the huge structure that once stood on its foundation.
The peninsula leading to the citadel is also a popular area with fishermen and families alike. It is usually crowded with a pleasant crowd enjoying the sea views, restaurants and ice cream shops that line the street up to the fortress.
The fortress’ current form is not the original. It was heavily damaged during the British bombardment of Alexandria during a nationalist uprising against British hegemony in 1882 and rebuilt around the turn of the 20th century.
As with most things in Alexandria, the building itself is not what is most significant about this location. Qaitbey built the fortress here to take advantage of an exist foundation on the site—that of the legendary Pharos Lighthouse, which by the 14th century had fallen into ruins due to repeated damage by earthquakes.
The largest stones of the citadel, forming the lintel and doorway of its entrance, as well as the red granite columns in the mosque within the walls, are probably also salvaged from the huge tower that once stood here.
The citadel has long since given up any military function. Today it houses a small naval museum, but it might be worth a visit to explore the inside of the fortress and imagine the huge structure that once stood on its foundation.
The peninsula leading to the citadel is also a popular area with fishermen and families alike. It is usually crowded with a pleasant crowd enjoying the sea views, restaurants and ice cream shops that line the street up to the fortress.
It's a very beautiful fort with a rich history, definitely worth a visit. Recommend to have a guide to explain further about the fort.
Qaitbay Citadel 奎貝堡
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. Entrance ticket costs 150EGP.
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. Entrance ticket costs 150EGP.
Historic monument , still standing
Location directly on sea side .
Built at the time of mamluk era .
condition of the castle is good
Fees for entry applied
Location directly on sea side .
Built at the time of mamluk era .
condition of the castle is good
Fees for entry applied
Very nice place to visit, this castle was built to protect Egypt from marine invasion in Middle Ages, the castle was built by Sultan Qaytbay and it was named after his name, the castle has wonderful architecture which presents the Islamic community in this age, there are many rooms and towers which are deserved to be seen. The visit is not suitable too much for young children as there was long distances to walk.
One of my favourite castles I’ve ever visited; it’s close by one of the ancient wonders of the world and is truly remarkable. The lighthouse is was built very close by the castle. It’s got lots to see and do inside. It’s definitely worth visiting and something you wouldn’t want to miss when visiting Alexandria. I would love to go back someday.
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