Cairo Castle
Tā‘izz
Al-Qahira Castle, also known as Cairo Castle, is a significant historical fortress located on the northern slope of Mount Sabr in Taiz, Yemen. It was commissioned in the first half of the 12th century by Sultan 'Abd Allah ibn Muhammad al-Sulayhi of the Sulayhid dynasty and later expanded under his brother Ali ibn Muhammad al-Sulayhi. The castle is divided into two main sections: Al-Adina, featuring terraced gardens, carved water basins, and four palaces including Dar al-'Amara which served as the sultan's residence and guest house; and the Maghreb area, which contains palaces, guard towers, grain storage, and water reservoirs. The castle's walls, reaching up to 120 meters in height and four meters thick, are an engineering marvel from the Sulayhid era, enclosing the old city neighborhoods and connecting to the ancient city walls with its four main gates. Despite suffering damage during the Yemeni Civil War, including airstrikes in 2015 and use as military barracks, the castle remains a symbol of Taiz's historical core and was reopened to visitors after 2018. Its architecture, historical significance, and commanding position make it a unique cultural landmark in Yemen.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Al-Qahira Castle during daylight hours to fully appreciate its architectural details and panoramic views of Taiz. Purchasing tickets in advance or checking local availability is recommended due to occasional closures related to security concerns. Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the castle's history and structure. Due to past conflicts, verify current access conditions and safety before visiting. Discounts may be available for students or groups.
Interesting facts
- •The castle's walls reach 120 meters in height and are four meters thick, showcasing advanced medieval engineering.
- •Four main gates of the old city walls connected to the castle are Bab al-Kabir, Bab Musa, Bab al-Madjar, and Bab al-Nasr.
- •The castle includes secret tunnels connecting the sultan's palace to other palaces within the fortress.
- •In 2015, 30% of the castle was damaged during two airstrikes amid the Yemeni Civil War.
- •The castle was used as a military barracks by al-Qaeda-linked Abu Al Abbas Brigades before being reclaimed by the Yemeni government.
History
Al-Qahira Castle was founded in the early 12th century by Sultan 'Abd Allah ibn Muhammad al-Sulayhi and expanded by his brother Ali ibn Muhammad al-Sulayhi, forming the nucleus of Taiz city.
The castle's walls and gates date back to the Sulayhid dynasty, reflecting complex medieval engineering.
In 1281, Sultan al-Muayyad added a madrasa and park near the main entrance.
During the 2015 Yemeni Civil War, the castle was damaged by airstrikes and occupied by various armed groups.
It was reclaimed by the Yemeni government in 2018 and reopened to the public after four years of closure.
Place Guide
Al-Adina Section12th century
This section features terraced gardens built into the mountain slope, water basins carved into the rock, and four palaces: Dar al-Adab, Dar al-Shajarah, Dar al-'Adil, and Dar al-'Amara. Dar al-'Amara served as the sultan's residence and guest house, connected by secret tunnels to other palaces.
Maghreb Area12th century
Comprises multiple palaces, guard towers, grain storage facilities, and water reservoirs. This area supported the castle's defensive and logistical needs, essential for sustaining the fortress during sieges.
Castle Walls and Gates12th century
The walls enclose the old city neighborhoods and connect to the ancient city walls featuring four main gates: Bab al-Kabir, Bab Musa, Bab al-Madjar, and Bab al-Nasr. Watchtowers above the gates provided surveillance and defense.
Main Entrance and Madrasa1281
Located on the south side in the Al-Moayad area, the entrance includes a madrasa built by Sultan al-Muayyad in 1281, a small dome, a pond, and remnants of Sultan Al-Muayyed Park, reflecting the castle's educational and recreational functions.
Contact
Phone: 0730 395 349
