A Modern Icon Built on Ancient Foundations
In the vibrant city of Alexandria, Egypt's storied Mediterranean capital, history and innovation come together in stunning fashion with the unveiling of the Qaitbay Promenade. Stretching 550 meters into the sea, this newly constructed sea walkway is the longest of its kind in Egypt, and it surrounds one of the city’s most iconic monuments – the Qaitbay Citadel. Designed as a model of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and urban regeneration, the project has transformed Alexandria's eastern waterfront into a thriving destination for locals and international travelers alike.
What is the Qaitbay Promenade?
The Qaitbay Promenade is a coastal development project built as part of a comprehensive plan to protect and enhance the area surrounding the historic Qaitbay Citadel. With its 550-meter-long walkway extending into the Mediterranean, it allows visitors to walk directly over the sea, offering panoramic views of the citadel, the harbor, and the endless horizon.
Qaitbay Citadel: A Fortress of History
The Qaitbay Citadel, built in 1477 AD by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay, is not just a monument — it is a symbol of Egyptian maritime strength. Located at the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the citadel served as a vital military fortress during the Mamluk era.
Strategic Purpose: Protecting Heritage and Enhancing Tourism
The Qaitbay Promenade was developed as a dual-purpose project:
To protect the citadel and surrounding coastline from the dangers of rising sea levels and seasonal storms.
To transform the area into a world-class tourism destination that meets modern travel expectations.
The project was executed with advanced concrete technologies designed to resist marine erosion, while maintaining the natural flow of sea currents to protect the beach and surrounding marine environment.
What Can Visitors Expect? The promenade offers a complete experience for visitors: Resting areas and shaded seating spots for relaxation Elegant decorative lighting for evening strolls A 30-meter stone jetty and 100-meter viewing dock for photography and sightseeing Enhanced accessibility for families, seniors, and tourists Opportunities for cultural activities, walking tours, and water sports At night, the promenade transforms into a glowing path over the sea, creating a magical atmosphere for romantic walks, cultural performances, and coastal celebrations.
Revitalizing East Alexandria: A New Cultural Hub
The Qaitbay Promenade is more than an architectural upgrade – it is part of a larger vision to redevelop Alexandria's historical waterfronts. It acts as a catalyst to turn East Alexandria into a vibrant cultural hub, with:
Tourist-friendly infrastructure
Cultural festivals and events
Access to heritage sites and museums
Opportunities for diving, swimming, and eco-tourism
In a time when many historical sites face threats from climate change, over-tourism, and neglect, the Qaitbay Promenade stands out as a shining example of what is possible when vision, engineering, and respect for history come together.
It allows visitors to do more than see a monument — it lets them immerse themselves in the story of Alexandria. Walking along the sea, with the fortress on one side and the endless blue horizon on the other, is a powerful reminder of Egypt's legacy and its modern aspirations.
A Must-Visit in Modern Alexandria
Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy Alexandria’s beauty, the Qaitbay Promenade offers a new way to experience the city. Combining breathtaking views, cultural depth, and urban innovation, it is destined to become a signature highlight on Egypt’s tourism map.
Plan your visit. Discover Qaitbay. Walk through centuries of history — above the waves.
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