The Citadel in Alexandria, precisely known as the Citadel of Qaitbay, was constructed by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay.
The Builder: Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay
Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay was a Mamluk Sultan of Egypt who reigned during the late 15th century. His legacy includes numerous architectural projects, with the Citadel of Qaitbay being one of his most significant defensive structures. His decision to build this fortress on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria highlights its strategic importance and his commitment to strengthening Egypt's coastal defenses.
Construction and Purpose
The construction of the Citadel of Qaitbay took place over a period of two years, from 1477 to 1479 AD (882–884 AH). This impressive fortress was designed as a defensive stronghold to protect Alexandria, one of Egypt's most vital port cities, from potential naval attacks. Its robust architecture and strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it an effective deterrent against invaders.
The Citadel stands as a testament to medieval Islamic military architecture, incorporating elements that were crucial for naval defense at the time. Its construction also utilized stones salvaged from the ruins of the famed Lighthouse of Alexandria, which had been one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Key Details of the Citadel of Qaitbay
Here’s a summary of the essential facts about the Citadel of Qaitbay:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Citadel of Qaitbay (or Fort of Qaitbay) |
| Location | Mediterranean Sea coast, Alexandria, Egypt |
| Builder | Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay |
| Construction | 1477–1479 AD (882–884 AH) |
| Purpose | 15th-century defensive fortress |
| Historical Note | Built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, using some of its salvaged materials. |
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Citadel of Qaitbay on Wikipedia.
