Cairo Citadel

Perched above the old city and containing a treasure trove of intriguing mosques and museums, the Citadel is one of Cairo’s most recognisable landmarks. Construction of the fortifications was commenced by Saladin in the 12th century, and many of the walls, gates and towers date back hundreds of years. In the time since, it has been regularly modified and enhanced, while being variously used as a base for military garrisons, a seat of government and a home for assorted Sultans. Today, its main purpose is as a tourist attraction.

The most renowned site within the Citadel is the Muhammad Ali Mosque, built in the 19th century by one of Egypt’s most revered (and sometimes reviled) rulers. Constructed in the Turkish style, partly to wipe out any evidence of Mamluke influence in Cairo, the design was based on Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, which is easily apparent from the outside. Inside, there is far more glitz and glamour than in your average mosque and it’s often very crowded with visitors. Despite this, the mosque is well worth a visit, and there are great spots outside to capture sweeping, panoramic photographs of Cairo. Other potential stopping points are the Al Gawhara Palace and the Military Museum, and an excursion to the Citadel combines well with a visit to the Khan El Khalili and Islamic Cairo.