Egypt Attractions

Egypt has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. Herodotus, the world-renowned Greek historian, visited Egypt in the 5th century BC, and was so impressed that he wrote of Egypt 'nowhere are there so many marvellous things...nor in the world besides are to be seen so many things of unspeakable greatness.' Egypt is still known for its amazing archaeological wonders, especially the Pyramids of Giza . Millions of tourists, archeologists, and culture lovers from across the world visit Egypt every year and get enchanted by its pyramids, temples, mosques and great monuments of the Nile Valley, as well as the stunning beaches and diving resorts of the Red Sea.

Egypt offers its visitors a varied choice of tourist attractions ranging from historical sites to museums, temples, scenic landscapes, recreational spots and much more, to keep them engaged. Cairo , the capital city of Egypt and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most visited city in Africa. Other popular travel destinations in Egypt include Aswan - a beautiful winter resort; Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh - great diving resorts; Alexandria - a historic site reminding one of the great warriors Alexander and the Romans and beautiful Cleopatra; and Luxor - known as a living and open museum. Visitors and adventure seekers can also consider visiting Marsa Alam, Lake Nasser, Red Sea, and the arid mountains and desert oases of Sinai. The Red Sea resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh offer some of the best diving locations in the world.

Abu Mena, Egypt


Abu Mena an Egyptian town, a old monastery complex and center of Christian Pilgrimage in Ancient Egypt is situated about 45 km southwest of Alexandria one of the popular destination of Egypt.

Abu Mena is one of the oldest Christian sites of Egypt. Most of the public buildings, monasteries, houses, church, baptistery and workshops in Abu Mena were built over the tomb of the martyr Menas of Alexandria. This site of Egypt was placed in the heritage list of UNESCO and is closely located to the site of new Monastery of St. Mina

City of Abu Mena or the city of St Mena was the greatest Christian Pilgrimage place in the east during the beginning of the medieval period and was also the largest Coptic town of Egypt. This extensive site of Abu Mena also known as "the Vineyard of St Menas" raised many interests. Most of the objects found during the excavation of the Abu Mena are displayed in the Coptic Museum located at Cairo.

The site of Abu Mena was first excavated from 1905 to 1907. In this excavation a large basilica church, an adjacent church that had been considered as the church that probably housed the remains of saint Mena's remains and Roman baths. However the recent excavations discovered a large dormitory probably made for the poor people in Abu Mena.

Among the other historical remains of Abu Mena the most notable was the Thermal Basilica. Built in 5th century, Thermal Basilica was used to store the curative water. During 5th and 6th century many buildings were built around Thermal Basilica. Among the notable one was a 48, 000 square yard monastery that was constructed to the north side of Basilica.

Built in 5th century in the center of glamorous complex just south of Alexandria in Karm Abu Mena was Basilica of Arcadius. Supported by 56 fascinating marble columns, this baptistery is situated in the western end of the Basilica with corners rounded in semicircular marble niches.

Abu Tig Marina, Egypt

Abu Tig marina is a unique and ethnic town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. Designed by the Italian architect Alfredo Freda, Abu Tig Marina town is among one of the developing tourist attractions of Egypt.

Basically this unique marina town is a part of world famous tourist resort destination of El Gouna. Built on 10 km of scenic beachfront, El Gouna is the leisure destination of Red Sea. Spread across a group of islands that are linked with each other by beautiful turquoise lagoons, el Gouna is itself a complete well-established resort.

El Gouna is a diver's paradise site in Egypt. It offers wide variety of aquatic activities like windsurfing, water skiing, parasailing, snorkeling etc. El Gouna can be easily accessible by air from major cities of Egypt. Hurghada International Airport lays 22kms north of El Gouna.

Abu Tig Marina offers wide range of excellent resorts facilities and also provides opportunity to view Red Sea one of the most fascinating marine locations. However there are certain rules and regulations for entry in Abu Tig Marina. All boats must check into a Port of Entry to Egypt before entering Abu Tig Marina.

There are different rules of entry in Abu Tig Marina for every ports of Egypt. While heading towards Abu Tig Marina from Alexandria port, the boat must have Port Clearance certificate while the boats coming from Port Said must have Ships Registration Certificate.

All boats or ships coming to Abu Tig Marina must have a reservation before coming to marina.

Al Azhar Park, Egypt

The Al-Azhar Park in Egypt is located on a hilly site and surrounded by historic districts of Islamic Cairo. This park has become a popular destination amongst the many visitors to the city. Al- Azhar Park is Located in the heart of the city and offers panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The Al-Azhar Park was made with effort of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in 1984, on 30 hectare (74 acre) land with the Islamic belief that all are trustees of God's creation and therefore must seek make it a better place than it was before. This endeavor cost around 30 million USD and has since then become a harbinger for case studies to solve the challenges of historic cities.

The western side of AL- Azhar Park in Egypt is the old Fatimid city and its extension Darb Al Ahmarthat has wealth of mosques, madrasas and mausolea. One can find on the South of the park Sultan Hassan Mosque and the Ayyubid Citadel. To the eastern side is the City of the Dead where people live with the cenotaphs.

While clearing the 500-year-old debris for the park several discoveries were also made. Here one may recall the discovery of the 12th century Ayyubid city wall of Cairo built during the reign of Salah el-Din. Stones with hieroglyphic texts some measuring as much as one meter long that was used to construct the Salah el-Din's wall. In order to reach to the wall it became necessary excavate to a depth of 15 meters. Here one would find 1.5-kilometre section of the historic wall, with several towers and battlements well preserved.

The Al- Azhar Park is the largest green area created in Cairo in over a century thus helped checking a trend where the development had paid less attention to the city's once famous parks. In the Al- Azhar Park in Cairo there are 325 varieties of plants and most of them are native grown in the nursery. In the park there are three fresh water reservoirs for the city. Here there are shaded walkways, play area for the children, museum, hill top restaurant and café near the lake.

Aswan High Dam, Egypt

Located in the middle of the Egyptian Desert is one of the largest embankment dams of the world, Aswan High Dam. Known as Saad el Aali in Arabic Aswan High Dam is one of the greatest engineering miracles of this world. Located near to Aswan city, one of the main cities of Egypt, Aswan High Dam is 11, 811 ft long, 3215 ft thick at base and 364 ft tall.

Constructed in 1960's, Aswan High Dam was built to control the annual flood of the Nile River. Earlier also Aswan had a dam known as Aswan Old Dam built on Nile River in 1899. Construction lasted up to 1902 but when in 1946 that dam was overflowed it was decided to construct a new dam rather than of raising the height of the old dam.

Aswan High Dam contains eighteen times more material than the Great Pyramid of Cheops. At present this High Dam of Aswan provides irrigation facility and generates electricity for whole of Egypt. Along with the Old Dam, Aswan High Dam provides a magnificent view of the Nile River.

Beside of the magnificent dam view, one can also view the huge reservoir associated with the dam - the Lake Nassar. In the south of the Dam is located one of the attractions of Egypt, the Kalabsha Temple. A huge power station, a part of dam, is situated in north of the Aswan High Dam.

The High dam of Aswan added a whole new aspect to the economy of Egypt as well as to the environment of the Egypt. Because of the Aswan High Dam the cultivable land of Egypt has increased 30%. Also the water level for Shara as far as Algeria shows a positive impact of the dam.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Egypt


Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a revival of the ancient legendary library of Egypt located at Alexandria during the Greek period. The rebuilding of the library gives Alexandria back the status of center for learning. The new building of Bibliotheca Alexandrina is technically outstanding.

This major library as well as the cultural center of Alexandria is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. At present Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a complex that houses different sections for different groups of people of every age. It includes a conference center, specialized libraries for blind and also for the youth section. There is also a section particularly for children and it include three museums, four art galleries, a planetarium and a manuscript laboratory.

However besides then center of learning and knowledge, this new library of Alexandria is equally attractive for its architecture. Designed as a tilting disc rising from the ground with four levels below the ground and seven above, the library's main room stands below the 32-meter high glass-panelled roof and measures 160 meter in diameter.

The circular diaphragm wall of the library is considered as the largest in the world, with a diameter of 160 meters and height of 35 meters. The circular form of the library has its own symbolic significance and an iconic presence among the structures of Egypt. The exterior wall of Bibliotheca Alexandrina is made of four thousand granite blocks inscribed with the letters from the alphabets of the world.

The main reading area of the library is a single open space with eight terraces. However one of the most successful features of the new library building is its use of natural light, drawn in through glazed panels on the roof. The library and the planetarium of Bibliotheca Alexandrina are linked at basement level.

Cairo Tower, Egypt

The Cairo Tower is a concrete T.V tower located in the Zamalek district on Gezira Island in the River Nile. The tower is 187 meters high that is 47 meters high than the Great Pyramid of Giza. The Tower is ranked fourth among the tallest towers in the world and gives the visitors the best view of the city. The Cairo Tower is made up of granite and imitates a lotus plant as it opens up on the top.

The Cairo Tower in Egypt has hosted several important dignitaries and is popular for as dining venue. One here would also find a revolving restaurant that is popular for its food. For the Late President Gamal Abdul Nasser the tower restaurant was a favorite place to dine out with his family. One here would find a book that contains the signatures of all the important dignitaries who visited the tower.

The best time to visit the Cairo Tower is in the evening or at sunset time when one would be able to see the city glowing. Towards the west of the city one would be able to see the pyramids and the desert that marks the city limits.

The Cairo Tower was constructed in 1961 under the guidance of Naum Chebib. It is said that the Great Pyramid inspires the tower. The tower has also become a major landmark of the city and showcases the modernity of the ancient city. The tower opens at 9 am till 1 am and one needs to buy tickets and also special tickets for cameras.

City of the Dead, Egypt

The City of Dead in Egypt is an ancient cemetery at the same time a living city. In the past the rulers in Cairo used this area to burry their dead as it was outside the city. But history reveals that since the time of Pharaohs the burial place was considered to be a place where life begins.

From 14th century onwards one finds that the City of Dead began to be occupied for dwelling and the cenotaphs were used as place to entertain the guests. Today these cenotaphs are used as tables and are important in this part of the city.

But the City of Dead in Cairo has become a permanent shelter for the urban poor, as the stay here is inexpensive. Here one would find communities living here as a tolerated separate society. According the statistics there are approximately five million Egyptians living in the City of Dead.

In modern times the cities lack of urban infrastructure and unaffordable housing has led to several communities to embrace the cemeteries and make it a part of their lives. But this has been without any qualms, as traditionally Egyptians have never seen cemeteries as a place of dread but where life begins. But given an opportunity the residents would definitely like moving out.

But in the tour to Cairo one should visit the City of Dead as this place has a charm of its own, as it is so different from the rest of the city. It would also be a time to know how the people live in this part of the city.

Coptic Museum, Egypt

Coptic Museum in Egypt showcases the ancient Egyptian art, Pharaoh and the Graeco- Roman period and the Islamic era. The museum is located at a historic place- the precincts of the ancient Babylonian Fort. The objects displayed at the Coptic Museum are approximately 16000 that are arranged in chronological order.

The collections at the Coptic Museum in Egypt include the antiquities from the Coptic period (300 - 1000 AD) and are the richest repository of Coptic art in the world. The museum is divided into two sections - the old wing with 13 sections and the new wing with 17 sections. The collections at the Old wing in the Coptic Museum include wood furnishings, ceiling panels, etc. The collections in the new wing highlight the geometric designs, scrolls of acanthus, vine leaves and others that are passed on to Islamic art in Egypt.

The Coptic Museum in Cairo holds the artifacts made by Copts throughout the ages with the exhibits arranged in chronological order. Here at the entrance of the museum the limestone façade resembles the façade of the Mosque of al-Aqmar. This highlights the importance of artistic relationship between the Copts and the Muslim rulers in the Fatimid period.

Morcos Smeika Pasha founded the Coptic Museum in Egypt in 1910 AD to understand the history of Christianity in Egypt. The Coptic Museum in Egypt covers 8000 square meters and includes buildings and gardens. The Museum is under the auspices of Ministry of Culture and is a popular attraction amongst the travelers.

Dakhla Oasis, Egypt

Egypt - Ras El Sudr - Marsa Alam - Luxor - Hurghada - Aswan - Alexandria - Abu Simbel - Sharm el Sheikh

Dakhla Oasis is one of the most beautiful oases of Egypt lying northwest of Kharga and 310 km southeast of Farafra. It is the farthest oasis from the capital city of Cairo.

Dakhla Oasis in the earlier times was a very lush green region filled with orchards field and a vast lake but soon this wet era passed and what left was the remains of the sand. With the advancement of Western desert region most of the people of Dakhla Oasis migrated from south to the east leaving their ancient treasure to the hands of never fulfilled desert.

The oldest inscription excavated here dated to the reign of Teti king belonging to Old Kingdom period. Little evidences of Ptolemaic era have also been discovered from the sites excavated in Oasis. Among the remains most of the objects belong to the roman period. Roman farms, villages and cemeteries have been found throughout the Oasis.

A rose-colored rock wall on its northern horizon dominates Dakhla Oasis. Mut, the capital of Dakhla Oasis houses Museum of Inheritance. Museum of Inheritance is a traditional house that displays different aspects of Dakhlan cultural and social life.

Another destination of Dakhla Oasis is Al-Kasr located about 35 km away from Mut. Al-Kasr was originally a Roman settlement that became capital of Dakhla in medieval time. The old town of Al-Kasr is a mud-walled labyrinth including separate houses. There is also an Ayyubid mosque. For a wonderful view of the Dakhlan area climb the rooftop of the 10th century madrassa.

Along with the ancient remains of Dakhla Oasis, one can also see Al-Muzawaka tombs belonging to 1st century and Deir al Hagar, a temple dedicated to Theban Triad. There is also a picnic spot on the road back to Mut known by the name of Bir al-Gabel.

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Eastern (Arabian) Desert, Egypt

Eastern (Arabian) Desert of Egypt is the largest desert in eastern Egypt. Covering an area of about 85,690 sq miles, this largest desert of Eastern Egypt originates from southeast of the Nile River Delta. It extends up to northeastern Sudan in southeast direction and from the Nile river valley eastward to Gulf of Suez and Red Sea.

Also known by the name of "Arabian Desert", the Eastern Desert of Egypt is well dissected. In the east it rises up to a formidable range of mountains some of them achieving height of 6,600 ft and 7,176ft. But there is a considerable decrease in the height in stages at the Red Sea. Numerous dry valleys divide this hilly desert terrain of Egypt. But during the rainfall season, these dry valleys give birth to luxuriant vegetation.

The caravan routes across the desert between the Nile Valley and the Red Sea had served as a trade route used for trading purpose with Sinai, Arabia, India and with the countries located on the east coast of African Continent. Later Egyptian pilgrims for reaching Mecca followed these routes after the arrival of Islam.

The Eastern (Arabian) Desert of Egypt comprises of almost one-fourth of total land surface of Egypt. The northern tier of the Arabian Desert is a limestone plateau that stretches from the Mediterranean coastal plain to a point opposite Qina.

Egyptian Antiquities Museum, Egypt


Egyptian Antiquities Museum of Egypt commonly known as the Egyptian Museum is located in the capital city of Cairo. This museum houses the most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. Established by Egyptian government in 1835 to protect the rich heritage of ancient Egyptian antiquates. Earlier the museum was in the annex of palace of Isma'il Pasha in Giza but in 1900 under Gaston Maspero, museum moved to its present location of Tahrir Square in Cairo's city center.

Built during the reign of Khedive Abbass Helmi II in 1897 and opened in 1902, the Egyptian Museum has 107 halls. The ground floor of the museum has huge statues while the upper floor of the museum houses small statues, jewels, Tutankhamun treasures and the mummies. Besides of its collection halls it also comprises of a section on photography and a large library.

The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities display an 'Object of the Month', which is the prime center of attraction between the visitors. Behind it there is a display of some of the valuable and rare items from the time of unification of Upper and Lower Egypt. The most famous item among them is the slate palette of King Narmer-considered as one of the earliest documents of Egyptian history. Along with it other smaller gems of sculpture art are also on display.

The four gilded shrines of Tutankhamun's tomb nested one inside the other is also on display in the Egyptian Museum. These shrines are lined in decreasing size. Along with these four shrines, chariots, gloves, jewellery and the famous golden mask of Tutankhamun and many other antiquities of his tomb are on display. The upper floor of the Museum also houses a specific Mummy Room, which has mummies of some of the great rulers of Ancient Egypt.

Fort Qaitbey, Egypt


Fort Qaitbey is situated on the most visible location of Alexandria city. Located on the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World i.e. the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, Fort Qaitbey is one of the gems of the Alexandria.

Qaitbey, a Mumluk ruler, who ruled Egypt from 1468 to 1496, builds Fort of Qaitbey. It was believed that some of the construction material of Fort of Qaitbey came from the ruined structure mainly the huge red granite pillars. Fort Qaitbey consists of three main parts: the huge walls around the entire fort complex, an interior wall and the tower built on the site of lighthouse.

The first attraction of the fortress, the huge walls covered about two acres of land. However the eastern wall of the fort has no protective tower but the wall of the western side consists of three guard towers. The middle of the southern wall contains a section, which leads to the main entrance of the fort. The northern wall of the fortress is facing towards the sea and has square shaped windows for canons. On the top there was a balcony for archers.

Within the main wall there is a lower secondary wall primarily known as inner walls of Fort Qaitbey. The inner walls of the fortress contain rooms used for garrisoning soldiers. The main central tower of the fort has a large garden in its front. For entering the central tower, there are a series of tunnels known as coastal passages that lead into various sections of the fort complex. There are three doorways to reach coastal passages. Two of them are in the right and left side of the garden while the third door leads to the stables, in the western part of the fort.

The central tower of the fort is a square shaped structure located in the northeastern side of the fortress. This central tower measures 17 meters in height and thirty meters each side. The ground floor of the central tower contains a mosque that is considered as the oldest mosque of Alexandria. The left side of the mosque contains an opening that leads to the coastal passages. Sultan's throne is on the third floor of the tower along with a large massive rectangular shaped balcony.

Fort of Qaitbey was ruined twice first by the French troops under the leadership of Napoleon and later by the British troops and was also restored three times first in 1940s, second in 1982 and last in 2000.

Gabalaya Park and Aquarium Cairo

A hot favorite with kids and for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing place, the Gabalaya Park and Aquarium is a popular recreation spot located in the heart of Cairo. Situated between Om Kalthoum Street and Hassan Sabri Street,in the heart of Zamalek, the Aquarium is frequented by hundreds of locals as well as tourists everyday. This wonderful little park boasts several interesting things to engage kids, including the small aquarium teeming with colorful fishes.

If you're looking to spend few hours in a serene and relaxing environment, away from the hustle bustle of Cairo, then the Gabalaya Park and Aquarium can be an ideal destinations to be in. The park is beautiful and pleasant, and you'll certainly appreciate its cool ambience. It's a great place to take your family and kids. Enjoy watching colorful fish swim around in tunnels that look a little like bomb shelters - a fairly original setting, or take a refreshing short walk. Though the Gabalaya Park and Aquarium is located just minutes away from the Cairo city centre, you'll feel that you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area. Admission fee to the Gabalaya Park and Aquarium is very nominal at only 50 piasters (1 Egyptian pound= 100 piaster).

Great Pyramid of Cheopos (Khufu), Egypt

The Great Pyramid of Cheops located at Giza Plateau just outside of Cairo is the largest pyramid of Egypt. It is not only the largest pyramid of Egypt but is also the oldest member of the Seven Wonders of the World. Built for the 4th dynasty Pharaoh ruler Khufu, this great pyramid is also known by the name of Pyramid of Khufu or Khufu's Pyramid. The Minister of Khufu named Hemon was the architect of the Great Pyramid.

Great Pyramid of Cheops is the oldest and largest pyramid among the three pyramids of the Giza Necropolis. Pyramid of Khufu is basically a complex that includes two mortuary temples in honor of Khufu, three smaller pyramids for wives of the king, a smaller pyramid and small mastaba tombs surrounding the pyramid.

To the southwest of Great Pyramid lies the Pyramid of Khafre. Pyramid of Khafre is slightly smaller than the Great Pyramid. Khafre is one of Khufu's successor and builder of Great Sphinx. Another Pyramid related to Khufu is of Pyramid of Menkaure, a successor of Khafre. At the present time the pyramid of Menkaure is the tallest among these three pyramids as The Great Pyramid of Cheops lost its height of about 8 meter due to loss of material from the tip.

Originally standing at 481 ft high and covering an area of 13 acres of land, Pyramid of Khufu, Egypt is 754 ft at base. The entrance of the Pyramid was about 15 meter higher than the entrances used today. The Great Pyramid of Khufu contains a Grand Gallery, which is 157 ft long and 28 ft high. The width of the gallery at the bottom is 62 inches while at top it is 41 inches wide.

This Grand Gallery of Pyramid leads into the Chamber of King. The measurement of King's Chamber is 34'4" x 17'2"x 19'1" high. Above the Chamber of King is located five relieving chambers that provide support to the stones and distribute weight of the burial chamber evenly. The top most of these relieving chambers is the most important. To the west of the Great Pyramid of Egypt lies the Royal Cemetery.

Great Sphinx, Egypt

The Great Sphinx of Egypt is the first colossal royal sculpture in Egypt. It is the national symbol of Egypt history as well as of culture. This monumental statue at Giza lies northeast of Chephren's Valley Temple. The Great sphinx of Giza is a large statue in the form of half -human and half -lion.

Great Sphinx at Giza is among one of the largest single-stone monuments present on this earth. Commonly believed to construct in 3rd millennium BC, this Great Sphinx of Egypt is 57 meter long and 6meter wide and has a height of 20 meter. The face of the sphinx is in the east direction with a temple to the front that probably belongs to the sun god.

Sphinx is the word given by the Greeks to a fabulous creature that has head of women, body of lion and wings of bird. There are numerous sphinxes in Egypt but the Great Sphinx is among the most popular one not only in Egypt but also throughout the world.

The Great Sphinx is made of soft limestone bedrock. Basically the Sphinx is not a single monument but like other Egyptian monuments it is a complex that includes the great statute, an old temple, a New kingdom Temple and some other small structures.

The lion part of the Great Sphinx statute is the symbol of solar and the royal human head is the symbol of the power. The head and the face of the statue are the example of the architectural style of the Old Kingdom particularly of 4th dynasty.

However the statue is in crumbling situation today because of the wind, humidity and the smog from the Cairo. The figure was buried in sand for most of its life, which resulted in the loss of nose, part of the uraeus (sacred cobra) and the ritual beard from the statue. The beard from the Great sphinx is on display in the British Museum.

Greco Roman Museum, Egypt

Greco-Roman Museum located in Alexandria city of Egypt is founded in 1892 as a small building now located on Horreya Road. Transferred to its present site near to Gamal Abdul Nasser Road, Greco-Roman Museum contains hundred of precious antiques of Greek and Roman period.

The museum contains rare collection of coins from various countries dated back to 630 BC to the Ottoman period of 19th century. The collection of antiques at this museum that covers an era from the 3rd century BC to the 7th century AD is one of the fascinating and impressive records of changes that occurred in every aspect of the civilization.

Established in a historic building whose beautiful neo-classical façade of six columns and pediment bears "MOYXEION" a Greek inscription. Earlier there was 11 galleries or halls but at present Greco-Roman Museum Alexandria contains 27 halls along with an attractive garden that offer an excellent introduction to the rich Greek and Roman art in Egypt.

However whole of the museum is a great center of art collection but still some of the halls of the museum are the most visited ones. Hall number 3 of the museum has magnificent collection of metal work particularly silver and gold work. The main attraction of this room is the rare collection of varied ancient jewelry.

For viewing the sacred Apis Bull one should visit room number 6. Found to the west of Pompey's Pillar, Apis Bull is regarded as the most successful imposition of Greek realism on an Egyptian image. Same room also contains the Serapis Head, sculptured in fine white marble. It was one of the Ptolemies' gods.

Hall 8 is devoted to the work of mummies and collection of sarcophagi. While hall 12 contains numerous rear statues belonging to the Greco-Roman period. Similarly every hall of the museum contains something interesting and exciting aspect related to Greco-Roman period.

Hanging Church, Egypt


The Hanging Church in Egypt is the most popular Coptic Church in Cairo. The church dates back to 3rd cent AD and the beginning of the 4th century AD. The church has been restored with the change of time and objects that were redundant are preserved in the Coptic Museum.

The Hanging Church in Cairo got its name from its location on the top of the southern tower gate of the old Babylonian fortress. In the 14- 15 centuries the church also became popular as the Staircase Church due to the 29 steps leading to the entrance.

The Hanging Church in Egypt was built in a traditional basilican style with three aisles, a narthex and tripartite sanctuary. Later another chapel was constructed known as the little church and now is the oldest part in the church. In the 19th century a fourth aisle was added. The church is 23.5 meters long, 18.5 meters wide and 9.5 meters high.

The Hanging Church in Egypt has played an important in the Coptic Church History, as it had been the seat of the patriarchs after it was transferred from Alexandria to Al- Fustat. The 66th patriarch Pope Ana Christodolos (1039- 1079) chanted the liturgy in the church. Here in the church there are 110 icons and the oldest among them belongs to the 8th century.

In the church one will find the nave and the two aisle, 3 sanctuaries. Among the three sanctuaries the middle one is most important and is dedicated to Mary. There are 7 altars, 3 of them are in the main sanctuary, 3 in the right sanctuary and 1 in northern side.

Here at the Hanging Church in Cairo several important festivals are celebrated like the enthronement of the patriarchs. The church also has been a place where antiquities have been preserved especially in the Coptic Museum.

Luxor Museum, Egypt

Opened in 1975, Museum of Luxor or Luxor Museum is one of the best display centers of Egyptian antiquities. Housed within a modern building the collection of the museum is limited to certain numbers but is of tremendous importance and significant and are beautifully displayed.

The main item of collection of Luxor Museum includes statues from the famous Cachette found buried in Temple of Luxor as well as small collection of items from the tomb of Tutankhamun.

The ground floor of the museum contains masterpieces of Egyptian sculpture including a calcite double statue of Sobek-the crocodile god and of Amenhotep III- a 18th dynasty Pharaoh. One of the main attraction items of museum of Luxor is a reassembled wall of 283 painted sandstone blocks from a wall of a temple built in honor of Amenhotep IV.

There are numerous other antiquities of interest in Museum among which one is a couple of very nice coffins. Luxor Museum also has items of the periods after the demise of pharaonic Egypt. On left side of the ground floor is located a gallery known for the wonderful collection of stone sculptures found in 1989 from the one of the courtyards of the Luxor Temple.
The hours for the Museum are from 9 am to 1 PM and then from 4 PM until 9 PM. in the winter. Afternoon hours in the summer are from 5 PM until 10 PM.

Mausoleum of Aga Khan, Egypt


Situated on the hill above the white villa, the residence of the Aga Khan III, the Mausoleum of Aga Khan is built by his French born wife accordance to his wishes. This Mausoleum belongs to the spiritual leader of the Ismailis- Aga Khan III.

Built in a very elegant manner by using pink granite, Mausoleum of Aga Khan is among of late 1950's structures. The location of Mausoleum at the hilltop gives an excellent view to the Aga Khan's White Villa also. Mausoleum of Aga Khan is located near to the Monastery of St Simeons on the west bank at Aswan.

The interior of the mausoleum is given ethnic contrast combination of light colors, floored with red carpets and immaculately maintained. A fresh red rose was also laid on the sarcophagus every day according to the instructions given by the Begum of Aga Khan.

Also known by the name of Sir Sultan Mohammed Shah, Aga Khan was the 48th Imam of the Ismaili (Shia sect) Muslims. He was the only surviving son of Aga Kahn II, born at Karachi, who succeeded his father as the Imam in 1885. Aga Khan III was not only the Imam of the Shia Ismailis Muslims but was also a founding member and the President of the All India Muslim League. All India Muslim League was the party that was responsible for the division of United India into Pakistan and India.

Monastery of Saint Macarius, Egypt

Monastery of Saint Macarius located in the Nitrian desert 92 km north west of Cairo is a Coptic Orthodox monastery. Founded in 360 AD by St. Macarius this monastery lies on the highway between Cairo and Alexandria. From the time of its foundation to the present day monks of different countries have inhabited the monastery.

Monastery of Saint Macarius of Egypt underwent an era of restoration both in terms of architecturally and spiritually in 1969. The new building of the monastery includes more than 150 cells, a single large dining room, a new spacious library and a large guesthouse that comprises of several rooms. The new monastery building cover an area six times more than the old monastery.

However in addition, the historical old building of the Monastery of Saint Macarius has been restored carefully. Egypt Monastery of Saint Macarius at present is under the guidance of Pope Shenouda III. Monastery of Saint Macarius also maintains links with other several monasteries of the world including the Monastery of Chevtogne in Belgium and France's Monastery of Transfiguration.

St Macarius, the founder of the monastery was an Egyptian Christian monk also known by the name of Macarius the Great or the Lamp of the Desert. It was only because of his divine impact that the region of Nitrian desert is also called as Desert of Macarius. Also known as Deir Abu Magar, this monastery is the oldest monastery in the Wadi al Natrun.
The monastery was an informal structure very much similar to a village. Monastery of Saint Macarius includes a church known as St. Macarius Church and tower.

Mosque of Ibn Tulun, Egypt


The Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Egypt is oldest mosque in Egypt. The Mosque has been named after a soldier Ahmed Ibn Tulun in troops of Samara. He rose to the position to rule Egypt from 868 AD to 883 AD.

Following the tradition of his predecessors he established a new city called Qataia and also made it his capital. In the city he built a palace and mosque that was named after him. The Ibn Tulun Mosque seems to have been completed by 879 AD according to the inscriptions.

Some scholars maintain that Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Egypt has built by an architect who was a Egyptian Chriatian. He only brought about the idea of piers instead of large columns that was necessary to support the roof span. But others maintain that since Ibn Tulun lived in Samara the Great Mosque of Mutawwakil influenced him.

The importance of the Ibn Tulun Mosque in Cairo lies in the fact that it ahs been able to influence architecture beyond the Muslim boundaries. It went ahead to be praised by the Europeans and later imitation. The achievements in the mosque include the adoption of piers to support the roofs and arcades instead of columns. Here one also finds the systematic use of pointed arches.

The visit to Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Cairo would be enriching as it so much to offer and helps understand the historic and architectural achievements of Muslim civilization.

Mummification Museum, Egypt

Mummification Museum of Egypt is located in Luxor city of Egypt. It is a new museum dedicated to the process of mummification of Egypt and is situated north to Luxor Temple. It is a small museum but the unique one dedicated to Egyptian art of burial.

Opened in 1997, this museum features hall of artifacts, one lecture hall, video room and cafeteria. Hall of artifacts is classified into two parts. The first one is an ascended corridor that has ten tablets that throw lights on the funeral process from the death to the burial. The second part of the hall of artifacts began with an end of the corridor.

The artifacts of the second part are concentrate on eleven topics. It include gods of Ancient Egypt, Embalming materials, Organic materials used in process of mummification, Embalming fluid, Tools of mummification, Canopic jars, Ushabatis, Amulets, Coffin of Padiamum, Mummy of Masaherta and the mummified animals.

The technique of mummification had been evolved over several millennia. The earliest burials were made simply in baskets in the sand. During the period of Pharaohs, the burial of dead were elaborate and a ritualistic affair. But with the beginning of the New Kingdom, mummification process had touched a new height of art.

Mummification Museum of Egypt displays both human and animal mummies. However, along with these there is also a display of tools used in the process of mummification as well as artifacts items buried along with the mummies. Egyptian believed in life after death and that is why they buried items related to the person along with the dead body.

This museum provides all information related to mummification art. There is a statue of Anubis, the jackal-god who presided over the dead, at the entrance to the museum. Museum hours are from 9 AM to 1 PM year round, with winter evening hours of 4 PM until 9 PM and summer evening hours of 5 PM until 10 PM.

Nefertari's Temple of Hathor, Egypt

Nefertari's Temple of Hathor is located in Abu Simbel a small place in Egypt located close to the border of Sudan. Nefertari's Temple of Hathor of Egypt is among one of the two temples built to honor female group in Egypt. The other temple is in Luxor that was build for honoring Queen Hatshepsut.

The king Ramesses II build Temple of Hathor for his most beloved Queen Nefertari. Located at a short distance from the temple dedicated to King Ramesses II, Temple of Hathor is carved in a limestone mountain. The temple of Ramesses II is called The Great Temple while the Temple of Hathor is known by the name of Small Temple.

The entrance of the temple is in form of a receding Pylon while on the either side of the temple there is a defied statue of Nefertari along with her husband Ramesses II. Nefertari's Temple of Hathor is much simpler in structure than the Temple of Re-Herakhte.

Nefertari's Temple of Hathor consists of only one hypostyle hall and a rock cut sanctuary. The hall of the temple had images of Ramesses with wife Nefertari in battlefield. Just behind the hall, is located a small chamber that had images of Hathor cow framed in reeds. Just beyond this chamber is the sanctuary of Hathor's Temple. The front wall of the sanctuary contain carved image of an emerging divine cow from the wall protecting Ramesses. The other images at the sanctuary show various scenes of Nefertari offering incense to Mut and Hathor.

Six statues of both Ramesses and Nefertari that stood at the entrance of the temple are the example of rock cut statues. However these statues are smaller in size as compared to the statues that guard the entrance of Ramesses's temple. The statues at Temple of Hathor are 10 meters in height while the latter one are 20 meters tall.

The interior of the temple is laid out in much of the traditional format. The first chamber of the temple that is generally open for the public include six massive pillars decorated with a female head in the center of the chamber. The interior chambers of the temple, which were open for the nobles and for the priests only, also had similar niches like the first chamber.

Pompeys Pillar, Egypt


Among the ancient remains of Egypt, Pompey's Pillar is the most well known Egyptian monument that is still standing. Situated on a modest hill near the large Arab cemetery in the southwest of Egypt, it is a part of Alexandria's ancient treasure.

Originally Pompey's Pillar is associated with the ancient and famous Temple of Serapis that is no more now. This polished red granite structure is 99 feet high including the pedestal and is of about three meters in diameter at the base and two and half meters at the top.

Traditionally considered as the construction of King Theodosius to celebrate the Christianity's victory over Paganism, Pompey's Pillar, however, was set up in honor of Diocletian in 292. Earlier it was considered as a magnificent structure rivaling Soma and the Caesareum.

Pompey's Pillar is called as "Amoud el-Sawari" meaning Column of the Horseman in Arabic and was the tallest ancient monument of Alexandria. There are also other ancient ruins near to Pillar of Pompey of Egypt. Among them one is Alexandria's catacomb known by the name of "Kom al Sukkfa". Located at a short distance southwest of the Pompey's Pillar, This ancient structure of Alexandria consists of multi-level labyrinth that are reachable by a series of large spiral staircase.

These catacombs contain numerous chambers along with sculpted pillars, statues and other religious symbols of Roman as well as of Egyptian religion, burial niches and sarcophagi. Pompey's Pillar also features subterranean galleries as the nearby attractions. These are the ancient galleries where the sacred Apis bulls were buried along with three sphinxes.

Roman Amphitheatre, Egypt


Roman Amphitheatre or Roman Theatre is located in the central region of Alexandria city at Kom el-Dikka. Bordered by the Horrya Street in the north, Nabi Daniel Street in west, Abdel Moneim Street in south and Saphia Zaghloul Street from the eastern side, Roman Theatre is one of the symbols of Alexandria city.

Basically Amphitheatre means double theatre and were grand and impressive in structure. Usually built in semi-circular shape, Amphitheatre was an open-air theatre with no curtains on the stage.

The Roman Theatre of Egypt is modest in size and most of the part of the structure is in ruined condition but still it is an excellent ancient structure of Roman period of Egypt. The theatre also consists of numerous galleries erected crudely. These galleries contain rooms for more spectators along with arrangement of 700-800 marble seats around the stage.

The Roman Amphitheatre was discovered in the excavations doing for the site of Paneion or "Park of Pan" in Kom el-Dikkah also known by the name of Hill of Rubble. In the layers of the above the roman street two other archaeological sites were found. These were a Muslim Cemetery and slums.

Dating back from the 2nd century A.D, this Roman theatre had a large auditorium, which measures 42m in diameter. The outer face of the theatre's building was probably adorned with columns located in several storeys. However during later times the theatre was rebuilt and the massive auditorium was diminished to 33.5 m in diameter. It then counted 16 rows of marble seats.

Sinai Mountain, Egypt

Sinai Mountain the second largest mountain peak of Sinai Peninsula of Egypt after Mount St. Catherine, is also known as Mount Horeb or Mount Musa or Gebel Musa or Moses Mountain. With a height of 2,285 meter, Sinai Mountain is near to Ras Sasafeh.

Sinai Mount is the nucleus of great visited pilgrimage destination that includes Monastery of St. Catherine and the Burning Bush, along with Elijah's Plateau and Plain of ar-Raaha. Moses was the traditional founder of Judaism born in Egypt and it was because of his name that the Sinai Mountain is also called as the Mountain of Moses or Moses Mountain.

On the peak of the Mount Sinai is a small Chapel dedicated to the Holy Trinity. This Chapel, known as the Burning Bush, was built in 1934 on the ancient ruins of 16th century church. It is believed that this Chapel enclosed the holy rock from which God made the Tablets of Law. The western wall of the chapel contained a cleft carved out of the rock, which is also related with Moses.

Below the Chapel is the plateau called as Elijah's Basin. This basin is about seventy hundred and fifty steps below the chapel. Northwest of Elijah's Plateau is located Jebel Safsafa where St. Gregory the Byzantine hermit lived and prayed. Plain of ar-Raaha stands below the 2168-meter summit of Ras Safsafa. It is the place where Moses erected the first tabernacle.

Step Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt

Step Pyramid of Djoser also known as The Great Step Pyramid was built during the 27th century BC at the Saqqara Necropolis to the northwest of the Memphis city. Constructed for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser or Horus Netjerikhet-a makor ruler of 3rd dynasty by his minister Imhotep it was the first Egyptian pyramid that consist six stone mastabas built atop one another in decreasing size.

The step pyramid of Djoser is considered as the earliest large-scale stone construction of Egypt. The complex of Great Step pyramid is surrounded by a wall made of fine white limestone that measured about 10.5 meters (34 feet) high and 1,645 meters (5,397 ft) long at the built up time.

Suez Canal, Egypt

Suez Canal, Egypt is one of the largest artificial maritime canals of the world. It is not only Egypt's largest canal but is also an identity of Egypt similar to pyramids and the Nile River. 163 km long and 300 meter wide at its narrowest point, Suez Canal is considered as the significant geographic oil transit point between Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea.

Located in the west of the Sinai Peninsula, Suez Canal serves as a two-way water transportation route between Europe and Asia. Almost 8% of the total world's shipping traffic is controlled by Suez Canal.

The first appearance of Suez Canal on the political scene was in 1956 during the Suez crisis. In 1967, the canal was closed due to the war with Israel and was reclaimed by the Egyptians in another war with Israel that took placed in 1973. But the re-opening of the Canal took place only in 1975 and since then the traffic at Suez Canal is going smoothly.

The cities and beaches located close to the Suez Canal serve as a popular summer resorts for the tourists visiting Egypt. The Suez Canal Bridge built by the assistance of Japanese government is also known by the name of Egyptian-Japanese Friendship Bridge. It is a high-level fixed Road Bridge that has a 70-meter clearance over the canal constructed at El Qantara.

Suez Canal, Egypt is comprises of two parts-north and south of the Great Bitter Lake. Great Bitter Lake is a salt-water lake that flows between north and south part of Suez Canal. As Suez Canal contains no locks so the water flows freely into the Great Bitter Lake from the Mediterranean and Red Sea. This salt lake acts as a buffer to the canal, protecting canal from the tidal current's effect.

Temple of Horus, Egypt

Located between Luxor and Aswan on the west bank of the Nile river, Edfu is home of the second largest temple of Egypt i.e. Temple of Horus. Temple of Horus is not only the second largest temple after Temple of Karnak but also one of the best-preserved historical remains of the Ancient Egypt.

The Temple of Horus is a processional cult temple constructed in three intervals-first the temple by Ptolemy III then the outer hypostyle hall in the second interval and in last the perimeter walls and the pylons. The massive grand pylons of Temple of Horus are some 250 ft across and 100 ft high.

Temple of Horus at Edfu is dedicated to the falcon headed god -Horus. The main building of the temple includes a hypostyle hall. The entrance of the hall has images in honor of Horus and Hathor and there is also a 10 ft tall statue of Horus as the falcon god. Beyond the main hypostyle hall there is a second smaller same style hall that leads to a well, known by the name of "Chamber of the Nile" where priests obtained the holy water. Beyond this small hypostyle hall there is another hall used for offering followed by vestibule and sanctuary respectively.

The sanctuary of the temple is itself surrounded by the chapels and the rooms. The front chapel from the east is the Chapel of the New Year. The pylons of the main building of the Temple of Horus are of 118 ft high and include scenes of Pharaohs in battlefield. Within the pylons is the courtyard that leads into the main hypostyle hall. However on the either side of the courtyard there are gates that lead into an area beyond the temple but within the boundaries of the temple. This area consists of inscriptions that recorded all the land donations.

The Temple of Horus is unusual because of its location. A marvelous and magnificent black marble statue of the god at the entrance of the inner temple is a masterpiece of Egyptian architecture. It is the structural make over of this temple that makes it one of the famous Egypt tourist attractions site.

Temple of Karnak, Egypt

Temple of Karnak is the largest temple complex of the world ever built by man. Located in the small village of Al-Karnak, situated on the banks of Nile 2.5 km from Luxor, Karnak temple is the perfect example of combined achievements of many ancient artists.

Temple of Karnak is a temple complex consists of three main temples, smaller enclosed temples and numerous other outer temples that are located about 3 km north of Luxor. Karnak is the modern name given to the site of temple. Its ancient name was Ipet-isut that means 'The Most Select or Sacred Places'.

The vast complex of Karnak temple was built and enlarged over a period of 1300 years. Mut, Montu and Amun are the three main temples of Karnak temple complex and are enclosed by enormous thick brick walls. Temple of Amun is located in the center of Karnak complex while Temple of Montu is located to the north of Temple of Amun and inside of the enclosure wall next to Temple of Montu is located Temple of Ptah. Temple of Mut is located in south side of Temple of Amun.

Temple area of Karnak is basically an open air-museum and is twice the size of built-up of village area. After the Giza Pyramids it is the most visited ancient historical site in Egypt. Among the three main temples of the complex only Temple of Amun is open for the public view. It is because of this only that the Temple of Karnak is sometime also referred as 'Precinct of Amon-Re'.

What made this temple unique and different from other temples and sites of Egypt is its length of construction period. Construction of the temple began in 16th century BC and about 30 Pharaohs contributed in its structural formation. The temple of Amun of Karnak complex encloses the second Pylon of Karnak built by Ramesses II.

The hypostyle hall of the Great Amun Temple is beyond the second pylon. The hall is considered as one of the great masterpiece of architecture throughout the world. The outer walls of the hypostyle hall featured scenes of battles. Beyond the rear wall of the grand hypostyle hall there is another hall known as Transverse Hall. This hall contains remains of earliest section of Karnak Temple complex, still in existence. However the oldest part of the temple is Holy of Holies or sanctuary.

Temple of Ramesses II, Egypt

Temple of Ramesses or the Great temple of Ramesses is located at Abu Simbel and is dedicated to Great Ramesses II a Pharaoh of 19th century along with three other gods Amun Ra, Ra Harakhti and Ptah. The Great temple of Abu Simbel took about 20 years to built and was completed in the 24th year of Ramesses reign.

The entrance of the main temple is 35 meter wide and 108 ft high. 65 ft high-seated four colossal statues wearing the double crown welcomed the visitors at the façade. These statues are carved out of solid rock. Above the doorway in a niche stands Sun God, representation of Ramesses in a falcon form. In his left is the figure of Ma'at. A row of baboons at the entrance was made to greet sun and indeed the monument looks best in the morning and hence the temple is also known by the name of "Sun Temple of Ramesses II".

The entrance of the Great Temple of Ramesses leads into the hypostyle grand hall that is 57 ft in height and 52 ft wide and was craved out of rock. Eight pillars with the statue of Ramesses supported this grand hall. The grand hall of the temple has statues in both north and south side that are distinguished from each other only by style of wearing of crowns.

Beyond the Grand hypostyle hall is the smaller second hypostyle hall with flowered pillars. Scenes in this hall show King and his wife Nefertari worshipping Amun and Re-Harakhte (the Sun God). Beyond the hall is, three chapels among which the central one contained the images of the three deities along with of the king.

Two chapels of the temple are located on either side of the façade. One is in the southeast corner of the temple and consists of three stelae. The other chapel of the temple is dedicated to Sun God and is an open-air chapel. The images of the Khepri and Baboon-Thoth linked with the Temple of Ramesses II are now in the Antiquities Museum of Cairo.