Cairo Citadel: A Historic Fortress Above the City
Explore the Cairo Citadel: a historic fortress with mosques, museums, and panoramic views of Cairo. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Cairo Citadel, also known as the Citadel of Saladin, is a medieval Islamic fortification in Cairo, Egypt. Built in the 12th century by Saladin, it served as the seat of government and residence of Egyptian rulers for nearly 700 years. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering stunning views and a glimpse into Egypt's rich history.
A brief summary to قلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي
- 27H6+G27, Privet Entrance Bel Kalaa, El Khalifa, Al Abageyah, Cairo Governorate, 4252360, EG
- +20225121735
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat, especially during summer.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting the mosques (shoulders and knees covered).
- Allocate at least 3-4 hours to explore the Citadel fully, including its mosques and museums.
- Check the opening hours, especially during Ramadan, as they may vary.
Getting There
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Cairo. Simply enter 'Cairo Citadel' or 'Citadel of Saladin' as your destination. A taxi ride from downtown Cairo to the Citadel typically costs around EGP 20-30, depending on traffic and distance. Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand or check the estimated fare on your ride-sharing app.
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Public Transport
Take the Cairo Metro to the Sadat station (Tahrir Square). From there, you can take a taxi or a bus. If taking a bus, look for one that goes towards Al-Hussein Mosque or the Islamic Cairo area, and ask the driver to drop you near the Citadel. Bus fare is typically very affordable, costing only a few Egyptian pounds. Keep in mind that Cairo traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
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Walking
If you are already in the Islamic Cairo area, you can walk to the Citadel, though it's an uphill climb. From Al-Azhar Mosque, head east towards the Citadel. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace. Be prepared for some steep inclines as you approach the Citadel.
Discover more about قلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
قلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي
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Explore the Cairo Citadel: a historic fortress with mosques, museums, and panoramic views of Cairo, showcasing centuries of Egyptian history and architecture.
قلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي
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Explore the Cairo Citadel: a historic fortress with mosques, museums, and panoramic views of Cairo. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
قلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي
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Unmissable attractions to see
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