The Citadel & the Alabaster Mosque: Cairo From Above
A guide to the Cairo Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the silver-domed landmark that crowns the city skyline.
High on a limestone spur above Cairo sits the Citadel, a medieval fortress begun by Saladin, crowned by the gleaming Mosque of Muhammad Ali. It offers the finest panorama in the city, all the way to the Pyramids on a clear day.
The Alabaster Mosque
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, wrapped in pale alabaster and topped by great silver domes, is one of Cairo's most recognisable sights. Its vast, lamp-hung interior is cool, echoing and beautiful.
The view
From the Citadel terrace, Cairo unfolds below, a sea of minarets and rooftops, with the Pyramids of Giza faint on the horizon. It is the best place to grasp the sheer scale of the city.
See old Cairo from the top with a private guide.
Browse Cairo toursFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Cairo Citadel?
A medieval hilltop fortress begun by Saladin, crowned by the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, offering the best panoramic view over Cairo toward the Pyramids.
Can you see the Pyramids from the Citadel?
On a clear day, yes, the Pyramids of Giza are visible on the horizon from the Citadel's terrace.