The Citadel of Qaitbey
The Citadel of Qaitbay
One of the most significant forts along the Mediterranean Sea coast is Qaitbay Citadel. Over the remains of Alexandria's Lighthouse, it was constructed between 882 AH/ 1477 AD and 884 AD by the Mamluk ruler al-Ashraf Abu al-Nasr Qaitbay. Alexandria used it to fend off maritime assaults.
The limestone citadel had an area of about 17,550 square meters. The building is surrounded by an exterior wall designed with defense towers.
The courtyard of the citadel is surrounded by an inner wall that has several chambers within it, some of which are utilized as storage areas and others as barracks.
The main tower is situated in the northwest courtyard, which is accessed by the citadel's entrance. It is comprised of a large square fort with three floors. Half-circular towers with projecting balconies for the city's defense occupy its four corners. Water for the soldiers and their horses was available from a tank next to the tower.
Due to its advantageous location, the Qaitbay citadel has attracted the interest of kings over the centuries. Additionally, the structure underwent additional conservation work in 2003 and was expanded.
