Egypt: Cairo – The Saladin Citadel

Citadel is the central hill in Cairo affording spectacular views of the city below and out to Giza Pyramids. The hill was chosen as the center for the city by Saladin (Islamic ruler from Ayuubid dynasty), who fortified the hill against crusader attacks and built palaces and Al-Nasir Mosque (somewhat similar to Mesquita in Cordoba), as well as an 800 feet deep well to supply the water. The structures were further fortified by Mamluks in the Middle Ages, before being rebuilt later by Ottowans, who built a massive and spectacular Mohammad Ali Mosque – resembling in appearance the Blue Mosque of Istanbul.