Saladin Fortress

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Situated in a privileged place on the entrance of the Gulf of Aqaba , Saladin Fortress was built by Saladin (Salah ad-din al Ayyubi) in 1170 . He chose to build it on the Faraon Island ("the Pharaoh Island") on the road crossing the Sinai to the north of the Gulf of Suez , 250 m from the bank of the Taba . This strategic spot controls roads between the three banks of the Gulf of Aqaba . The fort covers an area of approx . 2200 m (65 m x 32 . 5 m) .
Throughout different eras , the citadel enjoyed a great impotence . Remains of a Byzantine church from the time of Justinian VI were discovered at the site . There is evidence that it continued to prosper throughout the Islamic Period when pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia increased and throughout the Coptic Era . Enclosed within the fortress are: a fortified entrance; a mosque; a residence for the governor of the citadel; a number of cells for guards; three rooms; a water supply system; supply stores; and a big meeting room . The whole citadel was restored in 1986 .