Snapshots - Qait Bay Citadel

Al Ahram Weekly (Mohamed el-Hebeishy)

A new photograph adorns the Al Ahram Snapshot slot, with some accompanying explanatory text:

A SUNSET stroll on the Corniche enjoying a locally made vanilla ice cream is one of life's most indulging delights. Enjoy the refreshing taste and scenic promenade as Mohamed El-Hebeishy heads towards the Citadel.

His name in full is Al-Ashraf Abul- Nasr Seifeddin Qait Bay Al-Jekasi Al-Zahiri, better known as Sultan Qait Bay. Originally a Circassian (driven from the Turkic word Cherkess, referring to people from northwest Caucasus) he was bought for 50 dinars by the ninth Burji Mameluke Sultan Barsbay. A few years later, he was set free by the 11th Sultan Jaqmaq. Qait Bay was renowned as a great patron of art and architecture during his 29-year reign. He is best remembered for the spectacular building he left -- Qait Bay Citadel.

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