The Citadel, El Mosky

One of Cairo's major attractions, the massive Citadel complex dominates the city skyline. Built on a limestone spur by Salah al-Din (Saladin) in the 12th Century, most of its features are associated with Mohammed Ali, the early 19th-century leader who freed Egypt of the Mameluke yoke. The Citadel offers fantastic panoramic views of Islamic Cairo in a castle setting rich in history. Perhaps its most famous tale is of Mohammed Ali inviting 470 Mameluke leaders to a feast in the Citadel palace, only to have them trapped in a narrow passageway upon leaving and slaughtered by his men. Legend says only one Mameluke escaped by leaping the walls on his horse. Within the Citadel complex are the following attractions: Al-Gawhara (Jewel) Palace, Mohammed Ali Mosque, Police Museum, Sultan Al-Nasir Mosque, Military Museum, Carriage Museum, Archaeological Museum, Suleyman Pasha Mosque and Bab el-Azab.