Egypt, Cairo, Citadel, Burg al-Muqattam

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The Northern Enclosure is surrounded by the Citadel's original Ayyubid walls and towers.
lt is the most rewarding section to walk around before entering the Citadel. The main
fortifications of the Northern Enclosure were undertaken by three men: * SALAH AD-DIN
built most of the walls and small, half-round towers between 1176 and 1183. The walls are
10 meters high and three meters thick. The fortifications of Salah ad-Din are distinguished by
their use of dressed (smooth) stone. * AL-KAMIL constructed most of the larger towers
between 1205 and 1207. They are built of rusticated (rough) masonry, and either straddle
Salah ad-Din's walls or encase his original towers. * MUHAMMAD 'ALI (1805-1849) added
the upper parapets along the full length of the Ayyubid fortifications. He also strengthened or
rebuilt portions of the walls.
The BURG AL-MUQATTAM is the large, round tower next to the Bab (Gate) al-Gabal.
It was built in the 16th century by the Ottomans and is 25 meters high and
has a diameter of 24 meters.

Last updated: 6/11/06