Saladin Citadel of Cairo

Perched atop a hill in central Cairo, the Saladin Citadel is a historic Islamic fortification. Originally built by Sultan Saladin in the 12th century to protect his Sultanate of Egypt and Syria from the Crusaders, it was home to the rulers of Egypt for over 700 years. These days, visitors to the imposing ancient fortress will find some of Cairo's most important mosques and museums, as well as spectacular views over the surrounding city and, on clear days, even as far as the Pyramids of Giza.

Exploring the Citadel

Bordered by an imposing and robust-looking wall that sits on 3 different levels, it's surrounded by defensive towers that were a key part of the Citadel's defensive system during military campaigns.

The Citadel is one of Cairo's main points of interest and inside, it's possible to visit some of the most important sights such as the imposing Gawhara Palace, the carriage museum and the military museum, as well as 3 of the city's most important temples: the Sultan Hassan Mosque, the Ibn Tulun Mosque and the Al-Rifa'i Mosque.

Unmissable

It makes for a lovely few hours of wandering around the ancient streets of the citadel and taking in the views. If you want to visit the mosques and museums, we recommend going with a guide so you can make the most of their explanations about the different things you'll see! 

If you want to get to know the area along with an expert guide who'll show you the most interesting parts of the city, you can reserve a guided tour at the following link:

• Historic Tour of the Fatimid Caliphate's Cairo