Citadel of Qaitbey

After being in two dark and somber, yet wondrous, cavelike places it was really nice to visit the restored picturesque Fort of Qaitbay at the eastern side of the harbour

It was erected on the exact site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The lighthouse continued to function until the time of the Arab conquest. Then, several disasters occurred and the shape of the lighthouse was changed to some extent, but it still continued to function.

During the 11th century an earthquake occurred, causing damage to the octagonal part of the lighthouse. The bottom survived and it became a watchtower. Later a small mosque was built on the top. In the 14th century there was a very destructive earthquake and the whole building was completely destroyed. In 1840, a very strategic Mediterranean fort was erected over the old foundations.

The largest stones of the citadel, forming the lintel and doorway of its entrance, as well as the red granite columns in the mosque within the walls, were probably salvaged from the huge tower that once stood here.

It is a lovely, bright building with wonderful views over the bay.Read more