History of the Citadel of Saladin: A fortress above Cairo

History of the Citadel of Saladin: A fortress above Cairo

One of the most iconic Islamic monuments in Cairo is a fortress above a hill built by Sultan Saladin between 1176 and 1183 to protect the city and Syria from the danger of the Crusaders. As you enter the Citadel and move around, the unique architecture of the Citadel will enchant you, and the small details of the building. But I am sure you are wondering who Saladin is. So let me give you a brief about him.

He is the first Egyptian Sultan and the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty. He was sent to Fatimid Egypt to help them solve the issues, and he succeeded in overthrowing the Fatimid and defeating them in 1171 AD. In 1187, he defeated the Crusaders in the famous Battle of Hattin, and he was able to expand to Syria, Palestine, Yemen, Hijaz, and parts of North Africa.

• History of the Saladin Citadel

Built by Saladin in 1176 AD to protect the country from the Crusaders. It was then completed by King Al-Malek El-Kamel in 1182 AD. The rulers after them kept the Citadel and its renovation and restorations, as it was the main residence for rulers for 700 years.

• Architectural highlights

1.      Mosque of Muhammad Ali
   
    Built between 1832 and 1857, the mosque is known as the “Alabaster Mosque.” The mosque is inspired by Ottoman architecture. The mosque was built in memory of Mohammed Ali’s son, Tusun Pasha. The mosque feels like it is penetrating the sky because of the height of the dome, in addition to the tall minarets, and the interior that is covered by alabaster.
   
   
2.      Al Nasir Muhammad Mosque

Built in 1318 AD by Sultan Al-Nasir Muhammad, the mosque is the oldest one in the Saladin Citadel. Even though it is more modest than the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, it holds more significance as it was the main mosque that rulers prayed at for the Friday prayer, and it shows how important Egypt was for the Islamic world back then, politically and culturally.

Architecturally, the mosque is inspired by the Mamluk architecture, as the green-tiled dome remains as one of the most unique and important architectural features not only for Egyptian mosques but for Islamic architecture in the whole world.

The Citadel is much more than an ancient building; its historical, religious, and military importance is what makes it important. Whether you are fond of Islamic architecture, a history buff, or just want to view Cairo from above and enjoy looking at iconic buildings, the Citadel is the place for you.