Qaitbay Citadel
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The History of Qaitbay Citadel
The “Qaitbay Citadel,” which is situated in the eternal city of Alexandria on the eastern side of the northern tip of Pharos Island and extends out into Alexandria’s port from the cornice, is one of the strongest defensive fortifications along the Mediterranean Sea coast. In order to protect the nation from the perilous Ottoman Empire’s encroachment, Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-din Qa’it bay ordered its construction in the year 1477 AD. It took two years to construct and was planned by Qagmas Al-Eshaqy, a Mameluke architect. Not only did it play a significant part in the city’s fortification system during the 15th century AD, but it was also built on the exact site of The Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, which was destroyed by a series of earthquakes between the 11th and 14th centuries AD.
The Historical Role of Qaitbay
Since it was employed as a strong fortification to store and convey armaments in 1517 AD through the following three centuries, the Quitbay citadel continued to play a significant role under the Ottoman Empire. Napoleon Bonaparte noticed the citadel during the French campaign in 1798, so he invaded it with the entire nation. Muhammad Ali fought to rebuild the citadel’s walls at the start of the 19th century after British naval shelling had severely damaged it. He also gave the fortress new weapons, making his rule the citadel’s heyday.
The design of Qaitbay Citadel’s interior and exterior
The Qaitbay Citadel was constructed on an area of square-shaped ground that resembles a peninsula because the Mediterranean Sea surrounds it on three sides using stones removed from the massive lighthouse. A massive mosque is located on the first story, an octagon with hallways, corridors, and a living interior is located on the second floor, and the king’s seat is located on the third and top floors.
The Most Famous Castle Visitors
Since Qaitbay Citadel is Alexandria’s most significant fort, Egyptian kings have been concerned about it throughout history.
Qansoh Al-Ghuri strengthened its protection during the Mamluk Period and sailed with weapons and equipment.
This Citadel served as a fort to keep the Ottomans safe for three centuries when they opened Egypt in 1517.
When Napoleon Bonaparte arrived in Alexandria with 50,000 soldiers to take control of Alexandria, the French campaign was able to occupy the castle in 1798.
Muhammad Ali attempted to strengthen Egypt in the 19th century so that he could rebuild the castle’s defenses while in power there. Because the British Naval bombardment entirely destroyed the fortifications.
