French Expert Arrives in Cairo to Study Restoration and Re-operation Mechanism of Saladin Citadel Clock

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities received a French expert specializing in the maintenance of mechanical clocks and rare pieces to conduct a comprehensive technical examination of the clock tower at the Saladin Citadel in Cairo. This action aims to develop a detailed engineering and technical report to determine the exact steps necessary to repair the historic clock and restart its hands and bells, which have been stopped for many decades.

This clock is a rare archaeological masterpiece gifted by the French King Louis Philippe to the Governor of Egypt, Muhammad Ali Pasha, in the mid-19th century in response to Egypt's gift of the famous Luxor Obelisk. The clock is characterized by its hollow metal tower and fine copper decorations, as its maintenance requires high manual skills and specialized heritage techniques to protect its original components from damage.

Antiquities sector officials confirmed that the restoration plan is part of an integrated project to develop and rehabilitate the historical sites of the Saladin Citadel and open new tourist paths for visitors. The expert's visit is expected to result in a joint work program with Egyptian restorers to restore the mechanical movement of this unique archaeological landmark that adorns the courtyard of the Citadel mosque.