Cairo Citadel(Citadel of the Mountain (Cairo, Egypt), Qalʻat al-Jabal (Cairo, Egypt), Citadel of Saladin, Cairo Castle)

时常需要出去走走

5.0/5

Outstanding

Saladin Citadel stands atop Mount Muqatam on the eastern outskirts of Cairo, Egypt. It is not only one of Cairo's most famous historical sites but also a "stone history book" encapsulating the history of medieval Egypt. In the 12th century, Saladin, the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty, ordered the construction of this citadel to defend against the Crusades. Like a loyal guardian, it perches atop the hill, overlooking Cairo below. From its completion, it served as the center of Egyptian power for 700 years, witnessing the rise and fall of several dynasties, including the Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman, with each ruler leaving their mark here. The citadel is divided into an inner and outer city, with walls up to 2 meters wide, forming a very formidable defensive system. Inside, the most striking feature is the Muhammad Ali Mosque, located at its heart. Built in the 19th century, this mosque boasts a strong Ottoman Turkish architectural style, with its 52-meter-high minaret and magnificent dome forming one of the most prominent landmarks on the Cairo skyline. The citadel is exquisitely decorated; its alabaster walls radiate a sacred glow under the soft light, a truly breathtaking sight. Besides religious buildings, the citadel once housed palaces and military defenses, and now also contains the National Military Museum, showcasing Egypt's war history. As a military fortress, Saladin Citadel witnessed the flames of war against foreign invaders and the rise and fall of dynasties. In 2024, two of the citadel's towers were meticulously restored and reopened to the public, giving this ancient building a new lease on life. Today, standing atop this ancient citadel, one can almost hear the echoes of history and feel the heroic spirit that transcends time. As a must-see attraction in Cairo, it's essential to experience its grandeur under the blue sky and white clouds, and to appreciate the exquisite beauty of its carved beams and painted rafters. A small tip: When taking an Uber, wait outside the citadel, as drivers are reluctant to enter the parking lot due to the fee. It's best to use Didi Chuxing (a ride-hailing service), a Chinese company (if you are Chinese), and the service is generally better than Uber. There are many dogs in the scenic area, but they don't bother tourists, and dog lovers can buy dog ​​food to feed them.