Cairo Citadel
Al Qāhirah
The Cairo Citadel, also known as the Citadel of Saladin, is a vast medieval Islamic fortification located on a strategic promontory of the Mokattam hills in Cairo, Egypt. Construction began in 1176 under the direction of Sultan Salah ad-Din (Saladin) to protect the city from Crusader attacks and to serve as a fortified seat of government. For nearly 700 years, it was the residence and administrative center for Egypt's rulers, evolving through significant expansions under the Mamluks and Muhammad Ali Pasha in the 14th and 19th centuries respectively. The Citadel complex is divided mainly into the Northern Enclosure, historically a military garrison and now home to the National Military Museum, and the Southern Enclosure, which includes the iconic Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Its imposing walls and strategic location made it a formidable fortress that never faced a true siege. Today, the Citadel is a preserved historic site featuring notable mosques, palaces, and museums that reflect Cairo's rich Islamic heritage and architectural evolution. It remains a symbol of Cairo's medieval past and offers visitors sweeping views of the city skyline.
ヒント: Visit the Cairo Citadel in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and crowds. Purchase tickets in advance to streamline entry, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts are often available for students and Egyptian nationals. Allocate sufficient time to explore both the Northern and Southern Enclosures and consider guided tours for deeper historical context.
興味深い事実
- •The Citadel was built using limestone quarried from the nearby Mokattam hills and stones from small pyramids in Giza and Abu Sir.
- •It remained Egypt's seat of power for nearly 700 years, from the 13th century until the 19th century.
- •The complex includes the National Military Museum and several historic mosques including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and the Mosque of Sultan Hassan nearby.
- •The Citadel was never subjected to a true military siege despite its formidable defenses.
- •Its strategic location offers panoramic views over Cairo, dominating the city's skyline.
歴史
The Cairo Citadel was founded in 1176 by Sultan Salah ad-Din as a defensive fortress and seat of power following the Fatimid Caliphate's decline.
It was expanded extensively during the Mamluk period, particularly under Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad in the 14th century, who added significant architectural elements.
In the 19th century, Muhammad Ali Pasha transformed the Citadel by demolishing older structures and erecting new palaces and monuments, including the famous Mosque of Muhammad Ali.
The Citadel served as Egypt's government seat until 1874 when Khedive Ismail moved to Abdeen Palace.
Despite its military strength, it never endured a full siege but remained central to Egypt's political and military history.
場所ガイド
Northern Enclosure
Historically reserved for military garrisons, this area now houses the National Military Museum showcasing Egypt's military history.
Southern Enclosure19th century
Home to the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, a 19th-century Ottoman-style mosque built by Muhammad Ali Pasha, dominating the Citadel's skyline.
Well of Joseph (Bier Youssef)12th century
A deep well accessed by a spiral staircase, built during Saladin's era to supply water to the Citadel.
連絡先
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