Citadel’s Prison Museum in Cairo, Egypt – Museum Information

The Citadel Prison Museum is situated within the historic Cairo Citadel, adjacent to the National Police Museum. This museum showcases the actual cells used from the era of Salah El-Din (Saladin) until the 20th century, providing insight into the penitentiary practices of the time. The museum is modest in size and offers guided tours that typically last around 30 minutes to an hour. Visitors can access the museum easily from various points within the Citadel, making it a convenient addition to any exploration of Cairo’s historical sites.

Inside, the museum features several cells with life-sized mannequins dressed in historical costumes, illustrating the lives of former prisoners. Informative signage in both Arabic and English provides context for each displayed figure. The exhibits offer a glimpse into the prison experience throughout different eras, including the Mamluk period. The ambiance, enhanced by handwritten notes on the walls and lifelike representations, aims to evoke the historical atmosphere of imprisonment.