Saladin Citadel: Cairo's Historic Fortress
Explore the historic Saladin Citadel in Cairo, a medieval fortress with mosques, museums, and panoramic city views from the Mokattam Hills.
The Saladin Citadel, a medieval Islamic fortification in Cairo, was built by Saladin in the 12th century to protect the city from Crusader attacks. For nearly 700 years, it served as the seat of government and residence of Egypt's rulers. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Egypt's rich history and stunning panoramic views of Cairo.
A brief summary to قلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي
- 27H6+G27, Privet Entrance Bel Kalaa, El Khalifa, Al Abageyah, Cairo Governorate, 4252360, EG
- +20225121735
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the Citadel involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat, especially during summer.
- Dress modestly when visiting the mosques; women should cover their heads and shoulders.
- Check the opening hours before you go, as they may vary depending on the season and holidays.
- Take advantage of the viewpoints for stunning panoramic views of Cairo, and on a clear day, you might even spot the Giza Pyramids.
Getting There
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem are the most convenient way to reach the Saladin Citadel. Simply enter 'Saladin Citadel' or 'Citadel of Cairo' as your destination. A ride from Tahrir Square will cost approximately 70-90 EGP, depending on traffic. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
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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 fares are typically around a few Egyptian pounds. From the drop-off point, there is a short walk uphill to the Citadel entrance.
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Parking
If arriving by car, there is a large car park in front of the Citadel. From the car park, it is a short walk uphill to the entrance. Parking fees are approximately 10 EGP for a taxi, 20 EGP for a minibus, and 40 EGP for a bus.
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