7/23/15

Top 6 Places to Visit in Cairo, Egypt

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Egypt has one of the longest histories of any modern state, having been continuously inhabited since the 10th millennium BC.


(6) Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx
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The Giza Pyramids are the real must of Cairo. Like the Colosseum in Rome, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, this is the place where you want to go first.
Often overcrowded, they can disappoint when you see the buildings around them and you were expecting the desert… but they are still impressive for their size and age.

Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx Constructed between 2589 BC and 2504 BC, the Egyptian pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, built in that order, are a testament to ancient planning and engineering.

Despite the differences between them (Khufu’s pyramid is several times the mass of Menkaure’s) the southeast tip of each pyramid aligns together almost precisely. Each pyramid had a mortuary and valley temple, with a causeway connecting them. They also had smaller pyramids referred to as “satellite” or “queens” pyramids.

Entering the Pyramids is allowed but it looks like a very claustrophobic experience. Be sure to watch the sunset from any nearby rooftop. The view together with the sunset prayer (Adhan) is an impressive moment!

(5) The Saladin Citadel
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The Saladin Citadel of Cairo is a medieval Islamic fortification in Cairo, Egypt. The location, on Mokattam hill near the center of Cairo, was once famous for its fresh breeze and grand views of the city. It is now a preserved historic site, with mosques and museums. 

The Citadel is sometimes referred to as Mohamed Ali Citadel because it contains the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. 

The Citadel is another very touristic landmark, but one of those you can’t miss. It’s a very peaceful experience, as the area surrounded by the ancient walls of the Citadel is closed to traffic, and you can have the pleasure of walking around without… risking your life! (a true luxury in Cairo) 

It’s huge. From the esplanade in front of it you will also have a beautiful view over Cairo, and if the air is clear enough you will also see the Pyramids on the horizon. Definitely worth a visit. 


(4) Khan el Khalili Market and Islamic Cairo 
Khan el Khalili is a large typical market with a wide touristic area but many unknown parts to get lost in. It covers a vast area in the part of the city called “Islamic Cairo”. 

Khan El Khalili is a place where all your senses will be rewarded! From the endless sea of colors, to the beautIful, time-old architecture, to the voices of the sellers, to the smell of all the spices. 

Not only you can buy souvenirs as well as spices, handcrafts and fabrics, but also the area offers a lot more: belly dance and sufi dance (free!) shows in the beautiful venue of Wikalat al-Ghouri and a whole renovated street called Bab el Fotouh with plenty of beautifully decorated little mosques. At night the lights make them even more beautiful, this is the place to do it all! Shop, talk, people-watch, eat, drink, and visit or pray in El Hussein Mosque, one of Egypt's most significant mosques, don’t miss it!

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1 comment:

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