Qaitbay Citadel: Alexandria’s Great Mamluk Sea Fortress
Qaitbay Citadel is one of the most important defensive fortresses on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. Sultan al-Ashraf Abu al-Nasr Qaitbay ordered its construction between 1477 and 1479 AD to strengthen Alexandria against naval attack.
The fortress stands at the eastern end of the ancient Pharos Island, over the ruins and site associated with the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Built mainly of limestone, the complex covers approximately 17,550 square metres and is surrounded by defensive walls and towers.
Inside, visitors can explore the main three-storey tower, inner courtyard, defensive passages, rooms once used as barracks and storage, and elevated viewpoints overlooking Alexandria’s Eastern Harbour and the Mediterranean Sea.
Discover Ten Highlights of Qaitbay Citadel
Explore the fortress from its main tower and defensive walls to its inner courtyard, vaulted passages, sea views and connection with ancient Pharos.
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Qaitbay Citadel
Plan a smooth visit with practical advice about opening hours, ticket prices, walking conditions, sea weather and combining the citadel with nearby Alexandria landmarks.
Current Opening Hours
The Ministry currently lists Qaitbay Citadel as open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Go Earlier in the Day
Morning or late afternoon usually gives you more comfortable light, cooler temperatures and time to enjoy the waterfront without rushing.
Allow 1–1.5 Hours
Most travellers can explore the main tower, courtyard, passages and viewpoints comfortably in around one to one and a half hours.
Check Current Admission
Current official prices are EGP 200 for foreign adults and EGP 100 for foreign students, and EGP 60 / EGP 30 for Egyptian adults and students.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect stone floors, steps and uneven historic surfaces, so supportive footwear is the practical choice.
Expect Sea & Wind
The waterfront location can be breezy even when central Alexandria feels warm. A light layer can be useful outside summer.
Use a Guide for Context
An Egyptologist can connect the Mamluk fortress with the ancient Pharos lighthouse, Alexandria’s harbour and the city’s defensive history.
Combine Nearby Landmarks
Pair the citadel with Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, the Alexandria Corniche and Bibliotheca Alexandrina according to the pace of your day.
Travel note: Opening times, ticket prices and access to individual areas can change. Confirm the latest official details shortly before your visit.
Explore Qaitbay Citadel with a Private Guide
Add Qaitbay Citadel to a private Alexandria day designed around your interests, with comfortable transport and expert historical context.
Remarkable Facts About Qaitbay Citadel
The fortress links medieval Alexandria with the site of one of the ancient world’s most famous monuments.
Construction Began
Sultan Qaitbay began construction of the fortress in 1477 AD as part of Alexandria’s coastal defence system.
Square Metres
The official monument description gives the citadel complex an area of approximately 17,550 square metres.
Ancient Lighthouse Site
The fortress was constructed over the ruins and site associated with Alexandria’s ancient lighthouse.
Main Tower Floors
The massive square main tower rises through three floors and is reinforced by semi-circular corner towers.
Experience Qaitbay Citadel Your Way
Choose a real Alexandria or heritage programme and ask us to include Qaitbay Citadel when it fits the itinerary, timing and group interests.
Nearby Attractions in Alexandria
Qaitbay Citadel sits at the western edge of Alexandria’s Eastern Harbour, close to several enjoyable waterfront and heritage attractions.
Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque
Visit one of Alexandria’s best-known mosques in the historic Anfushi district.
Explore Site
Alexandria Corniche
Continue along Alexandria’s Mediterranean waterfront for classic harbour and city views.
Explore Site
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Discover Alexandria’s modern library and cultural centre overlooking the Mediterranean.
Explore Site
Alexandria National Museum
Trace Alexandria and Egypt through Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, Islamic and modern collections.
Explore SiteQaitbay Citadel Visitor Questions
Essential answers for planning your visit to Alexandria’s landmark Mamluk sea fortress.
What is Qaitbay Citadel?
Qaitbay Citadel is a 15th-century Mamluk fortress built by Sultan al-Ashraf Qaitbay to strengthen Alexandria’s Mediterranean defences.
When was Qaitbay Citadel built?
Construction took place between 1477 and 1479 AD during the reign of Sultan Qaitbay.
Was Qaitbay Citadel built on the Lighthouse of Alexandria?
The citadel stands over the ruins and site associated with the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria at the eastern end of Pharos Island.
How long should I spend at Qaitbay Citadel?
Around one to one and a half hours is comfortable for the main tower, courtyard, passages and sea viewpoints.
What are the current opening hours?
The current official schedule lists Qaitbay Citadel as open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Recheck before visiting.
How much are current tickets?
The current official listing is EGP 200 for foreign adults and EGP 100 for foreign students, and EGP 60 / EGP 30 for Egyptian adults and students.
What can I see inside the citadel?
Visitors can explore the three-storey main tower, courtyard, defensive passages, chambers, walls, towers and viewpoints over the Mediterranean.
Is Qaitbay Citadel suitable for children?
Yes, but families should supervise children closely around stairs, stone passages and elevated historic areas.
What attractions are close to Qaitbay Citadel?
Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, the Alexandria Corniche, Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Alexandria National Museum are practical additions to the same day.
How do I add Qaitbay Citadel to my Egypt tour?
Ask Egypt Travel Consultant to include the citadel in a private Alexandria itinerary or tailor one of the existing Alexandria and heritage programmes around your interests.