The Citadel of Cairo (Citadel of Saladin)

2024-06-20 14:43:34

The Citadel of Cairo (Citadel of Saladin)

The Citadel of Cairo is more than just an ancient monument; it attests to the strategic, architectural, and cultural advancements of medieval and early modern Egypt. From its initiation under Saladin, to its expansions under the Mamluks and Ottomans, the Citadel came to encapsulate centuries of Egyptian history.

 

 

Who is Saladin?

Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, known in the West as Saladin, was a Muslim military leader of great renown and the first Sultan of Egypt and Syria. He secured the foundation of the Ayyubid dynasty and is most known for his prowess during the Crusades—especially the third crusade—when he successfully retook Jerusalem from the Crusaders in 1187. Born in 1137 or 1138 in Tikrit, Mesopotamia, now part of Iraq, Saladin rose through the ranks with military flair and leadership skills. He is honored in both Muslim and Crusader traditions for his chivalrous and generous treatment of surrendered opponents and his piety. His victory at the Battle of Hattin and subsequent capture of Jerusalem altered the course of the Crusades.

 

 

Why did saladin build the castle?

Saladin built the Citadel in order to unite and protect the defense of Cairo and Fustat, which were the two major cities in Egypt at that time. It was erected as a response to the constant threat posed by the Crusaders who had established their strongholds in the Levant. By choosing Mokattam Hill as the site for this fortress, Saladin took advantage of its strategic position which overlooked the whole city and hence allowed him to easily detect any impending attack from enemies’ quarters.

 

A Citadel fortifications Style.

 

The Citadel was positioned at a high point above Cairo to offer very good defense in a tactical position.

The fortifications consisted of enormous walls, towers, and gates, which made the whole a formidable fortress.

 

The Walls

 The walls of the citadel are made up of big limestone blocks that have semi-circular towers that are built at intervals. These fortifications were meant to withstand attacks and secure a good defensive location.

 

The Gates

Important gates such as Bab al-Qulla and Bab al-Azab had been secured using sturdy doors combined with portcullises. When under siege, these doors can be shut to control movement into and out of the Citadel.

 

The  Decoration

Known for extravagant decoration through intricate stone carving and colorful tiles and inlaid marble.

 

The Interior Design of the Mosque

 

Muhammad Ali Mosque

This iconic mosque, with its large dome and twin minarets, is one of the most recognizable landmarks within the Citadel. Inside, the mosque is clad with alabaster panels, complexly carved work, and a big chandelier. This prayer hall is massive, sufficient to hold a huge congregation.

 

Ibn Tulun Mosque

Less complex in design with certain decor elements, such as a marble mihrab and a wooden minbar, reflecting the Mamluk idea of usefulness and beauty placed side by side.

 

Gawhara Palace

Also known as the Jewel Palace, it was constructed by Muhammad Ali Pasha and served as a royal residence.

 

The Citadel has been for many centuries the center of political power in Egypt. So effective was it as a strategic point of defense that the seat of the Egyptian government functioned there until the 19th century, that is, for almost 700 years. The ruling sultans, their courts, and administrative offices were all within its walls, and little by little, it turned into a city within a city, where 10,000 people came to reside. It was divided into neighborhoods. A palace and mosques were built, plus military barracks where those in charge of the protection of the city dwelled.

 

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