Cairo Citadel: A Historic Fortress Above the City
Explore the Cairo Citadel: a historic fortress with mosques, museums, and panoramic views of Cairo, showcasing centuries of Egyptian history and architecture.
The Cairo Citadel, also known as the Citadel of Saladin, is a medieval Islamic fortification built in the 12th century by Salah al-Din to protect Cairo from Crusader attacks. For 700 years, it served as the seat of government and residence of Egypt's rulers. 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 there is a lot of walking to do on uneven terrain.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting the mosques.
- Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over Cairo.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary, especially during Ramadan.
- Carry cash in local currency for entrance tickets.
Getting There
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Taxi
From most locations in Cairo, taking a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Careem) is a convenient way to reach the Cairo Citadel. Simply enter 'Cairo Citadel' or 'Citadel of Saladin' as your destination. A typical taxi ride from downtown Cairo will cost around 20-30 EGP, depending on traffic and distance. Be prepared for potentially heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.
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Public Transport
To reach the Cairo Citadel via public transport, take the Cairo Metro to the Sadat Station (Tahrir Square). From there, you can take a taxi or a bus towards Al-Hussein Mosque or the Islamic Cairo area. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Citadel. The bus fare is typically around 5 EGP. From the drop-off point, there may be a short uphill walk to the Citadel entrance.
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.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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