The Citadel of Qaitbay: A Historic Fortress on the Mediterranean Coast

Historical Significance and Origins

The Citadel of Qaitbay is deeply intertwined with Alexandria’s rich and ancient history, occupying the site of one of the most famous wonders of the ancient world—the Lighthouse of Alexandria. The lighthouse, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a remarkable structure that guided sailors into Alexandria’s harbor for centuries. Constructed in the 3rd century BCE during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, it stood over 100 meters tall, making it one of the tallest man-made structures in the world at the time.The Lighthouse of Alexandria was an engineering marvel, utilizing advanced techniques in both architecture and construction. Its function was to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the dangerous waters off the coast of Egypt, and it quickly became an iconic symbol of the city’s maritime significance. The lighthouse remained functional for many centuries, aiding trade and travel throughout the Mediterranean and acting as a symbol of Alexandria’s status as a center of knowledge, culture, and commerce.However, by the 14th century, the lighthouse suffered severe damage due to a series of earthquakes, which ultimately led to its collapse. As Alexandria continued to flourish, there was an urgent need to safeguard its harbor and the city itself against the rising threat of invasions. It was in this context that Sultan Qaitbay, who ruled Egypt from 1468 to 1496, decided to fortify the city with a new structure that would not only protect Alexandria but also mark his legacy as a powerful Mamluk ruler.