Fort Qaitbay. Alexandria. قلعة قايتباي Форт Кайт Бея. Александрия.

The Citadel of Qaitbay (or the Fort of Qaitbay) ( قلعة قايتباي) is a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast, in Alexandria, Egypt. It was established in 1477 AD by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay. The Citadel is situated on the eastern side of the northern tip of Pharos Island at the mouth of the Eastern Harbour. It was built on the basement of the famous Alexandria Lighthouse.

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. Restoration began in the period of Ahmed Ibn Tulun (about 880 AD). During the 11th century an earthquake occurred, causing damage to the octagonal part. The bottom survived, but it could only serve as a watchtower, and 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.

The fragments of the broken Lighthouse constructions were used in the masonry of the Qaitbay Fortress.

Historically, it played the role of an important fortress outpost in the Mediterranean and has suffered many conquests and destructions, what caused many restorations and repairs.
More details in the expedition report of ISIDA Project 2013.

Version in ENG language:
https://isida-project.ucoz.com/egypt_dec_2013/alexandria_fortress.htm

Version in RUS language:
https://isida-project.org/egypt_december_2013/alexandria_fortress.htm

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