Bey Citadel: A Masterpiece of the Mamluk Era
The Bey Citadel, dating back to the Mamluk period, is located on the same site as the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. It was built in 882 AH (1477 AD) by Sultan Al-Ashraf Abu Al-Nasr Saif Al-Din Qaitbay on the eastern side of Pharos Island in the eastern harbor. It is one of the most important defensive fortresses on the Mediterranean coast, constructed to repel enemy attacks. A mosque was also established within the citadel.
Historical Significance and Architecture
The citadel remained active through the Mamluk period, the Ottoman era, and into modern times. It covers an area of 17,750 square meters. After the British occupation in 1882, the citadel fell into neglect until it was restored by the Supreme Council of Antiquities. Construction began in Rabi‘ al-Awwal 882 AH and finished in Sha‘ban 884 AH. Sultan Qaitbay personally traveled to inaugurate the fortress, equipping it with strong soldiers and various weapons.
Defensive Structures
The fortress is surrounded by inner and outer walls made of massive stones. The outer wall is 2 meters thick and rises 8 meters high. The northern wall, facing the sea, features a large corridor with four square rooms at its lower section, each equipped with openings for cannons. The inner walls stand approximately five to ten meters inside the outer walls, enclosing the courtyard on three sides. These inner walls contain several rooms used for soldiers as well as weapons and food storage.
Main Tower and Mosque
The main tower of the citadel is located on the northeastern side of the courtyard. It is a massive square building measuring 30 meters on each side and 7 meters tall. Its four corners feature rounded towers with platforms and openings for dropping arrows. The tower has three floors: the mosque occupies most of the first floor, the second floor serves as storage for weapons and ammunition, and the top floor is a large hall reserved for Sultan Qaitbay.
Modern Use
Recently, Qaitbay Citadel has been selected as a tourist attraction and was a venue for the 2023 Basketball World Cup. Its historical importance and impressive architecture make it a vital cultural heritage site and a popular destination in Alexandria.