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Citadel · Ayyubid
The Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Cairo from above — eight centuries of power and architecture
Saladin began Cairo’s Citadel in 1176, and it remained a seat of power for centuries. Today its walls, mosques, museums and city views form one visit, dominated by the Mosque of Muhammad Ali.
About this place
The Citadel accumulated Ayyubid, Mamluk, Ottoman and Muhammad Ali–era layers. Inside the complex you can visit the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Mosque of al-Nasir Muhammad, Sulayman Pasha Mosque and a number of museums and open spaces depending on operation.
Do not stop at Muhammad Ali’s mosque alone: walk to the viewpoints and then back to al-Nasir Muhammad’s mosque for a very different architectural atmosphere. Morning gives better light and cooler conditions.
One site gives you Cairo as a panorama and shows how the architecture of power changed from Saladin to Muhammad Ali.
Visitor information
- Opening hours
- Sunday — 08:00 – 17:00
Monday — 08:00 – 17:00
Tuesday — 08:00 – 17:00
Wednesday — 08:00 – 17:00
Thursday — 08:00 – 17:00
Friday — 08:00 – 17:00
Saturday — 08:00 – 17:00 - Payment
- Card
- Amenities
- Toilets · Parking · Guides
| Tickets | Price | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Egyptian | 60 | 2026-09-06 |
| Egyptian student | 30 | 2026-09-06 |
| Foreign | 550 | 2026-09-06 |
| Foreign student | 275 | 2026-09-06 |
Highlights
- The Mosque of Muhammad Ali and city views
- The Mosque of al-Nasir Muhammad
- Citadel walls, courtyards and on-site museums
Tips from the visit
- Arrive in the morning before the strongest sun and crowds.
- Do not miss the viewpoints toward Sultan Hassan and historic Cairo.
- Allow two to three hours for the mosques and museums.
Worth knowing
- The complex is large, with slopes and stone paving; wear comfortable shoes.
- The mosques are active religious spaces: dress appropriately and follow shoe-removal instructions.
Location & getting there
Salah Salem Road, Al-Qalaa, Al-Khalifa, Cairo
Nearest landmark: مسجد السلطان حسن ومسجد الرفاعي
Nearest metro: السيدة زينب
A taxi or car to the Citadel gate via Salah Salem is easiest. From the metro, Sayyida Zeinab is a practical connection followed by a taxi.
30.0287, 31.2599
Open in Google Maps ↗Nearby
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