Babylon Fortress (Arabic: حصن بابليون; ) is an Ancient Roman fortress, built around 30 BC with the arrival of emperor Augustus in Egypt, on the eastern bank of the Nile Delta, located in the area known today as Coptic Cairo. It is in the former area of the Heliopolite Nome, upon the east bank of the Nile, at latitude 30°N, near the commencement of the Pharaonic Canal (also called Ptolemy’s Canal and Trajan’s Canal), from the Nile to the Red Sea.

It was at the boundary between Lower and Middle Egypt, where the river craft paid tolls when ascending or descending the Nile. Diodorus ascribes the erection of the first fort to rebel Assyrian captives in the reign of Sesostris, and Ctesias dates it to the time of Semiramis; but Josephus, with greater probability, attributes its structure to some Babylonian followers of Cambyses, in 525 BC. The Romans built a new fortress nearer the river, with typically Roman red and white banded masonry.

Within the fortress’s enclosure are the Coptic Museum, a convent, and several churches, including the Church of St. George and the Hanging Church.

Description of Babylon Fortress

Babylon Fortress, also known as the Qasr el-Shama, is a well-preserved medieval fortress located in the heart of Old Cairo. Engineers built it during the Ayyubid dynasty in the 12th century AD. It served as a military stronghold and a center of administration.

The fortress is on a small island in the heart of the River Nile. It is made up of a series of interconnected buildings, including a mosque, a palace, and a prison. The walls of the fortress made of large stone blocks topped with merlons. They are small towers that provide a vantage point for archers.

Over the years, People used it for a variety of purposes. During the Ayyubid dynasty, it was used as a military stronghold and a center of administration. In the medieval period, it was used as a prison and a place of execution. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction and is open to visitors who wish to explore its history.

The Babylon Fortress in Old Cairo is a testament to the engineering and construction skills of the ancient civilizations. Its stunning location, intricate design, and rich history make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. 

In conclusion, Babylon Fortress in Old Cairo is a historical landmark. It is an amazing site for anyone interested in history, architecture, or adventure. Its stunning location, intricate design, and rich history make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The fortress is also a reminder of the rich history of Egypt and its role in shaping the region’s culture.