Oases |
The word oasis is often used to describe a place where you can forget the cares of everyday life, relax,rest and renew yourself. Egypt’s oases are just that: unspoilt refuge from the modern world, pockets of civilization in the dramatic setting of the desert. Surrounded by sand and sky, the oases have a sense of timelessness,rare in the 20th century. Man and nature have co-existed here since the Stone Age,but the stars,the rock formations and the dunes defy the calculation of human calendars. Egypt’s oases are still the most varied in the world, each with a distinguished character of its own. Wherever you stay, enjoy the tranquility of the Bedouin lifestyle, the date groves and pigeon towers. For adventure and excitement, explore the majesty of the desert by camel or jeep safari; spend a night under the stars. Take a morning dip in the hot sulphur springs, the water and silt which have numerous curative properties. Fayoum oasis The main town in the oasis is located 85 km south of Cairo, 75 km from Giza Pyramids and 105 km from Cairo Airport. Its name is probably derived from ‘Fayoum’ meaning water. Although usually described as an oasis Fayoum is not fed by underground water,like the Western Desert oasis further south west but by water from the Nile transported to this natural triangular depression by a series of canals.
Having irrigated the oasis, the water runs into Lake Qaroun which despite having dramatically shrunk over the past few thousand years, is at about 215 sq km still Egypt’s largest natural salt-water lake. About 70,000 years ago the Nile flood first broke through the low mountains which surround the large Fayoum Depression and formed Lake Qaroun and the surrounding marshes. This is believed to be of, if not the first,site of agriculture in the world, as plants which grew around the lake were collected, land was fenced in, and dry and guarded storage areas were built. Even today, Fayoum is still famous for fruit and vegetables and its chicken. To describe food as Fayoumi, it means delicious. The 12th Dynasty Pharaoh Amenemhet I (1991-1992 BC) first drained part of the marshes to develop the area for agriculture and also dug a large canal from the Nile controlled by a regulator at Lahun to the north west of Beni Swef. The result of this and further developments by Amenemhet III (1842-1797 BC), who showed great interest in the area and built a pyramid at Hawara, was lake Moeris (Great Lake), twice the present size and teeming with fish, and an agricultural area to the south renowned for its rich and varied crops. The Romans,who called the area Crocodilopolis (because of the crocodiles) changed Fayoum’s previous system of crop rotation and forced the area to supply grain exclusively to the Roman market. Muslims believe that Prophet Joseph developed the area during his captivity in Egypt through the canalization of Bahr Youssef river and by building the world’s first dam. Although Fayoum’s national strategic importance diminished with the canalization of the Nile Delta, it remains one of the most producer agricultural areas in the country. The water level in Lake Qaroun had been falling for about 2,000 years, as it received less and less water until the construction of the Aswan High Dam led to greater stability in the level of the Nile. By the Middle Ages, the lake had become far too salty to sustain fresh-water fish and new species were introduced. The shrunken lake now lies 45 meters below sea level since 70,000 years ago. It now appears that water table is rising again as houses and fields at the lakeside have been flooded in recent years.
The beach resorts around Lake Qaroun still attract the more affluent visitors to the region. The number of visitors is increasing and while half are Egyptians, about a third are Europeans. The season runs all year round, but from January to April it is considered too cold to swim. The highly motivated regional government is now studying new tourist desert sites to the north and west of Lake Qaroun,a wild life park and conservation area, and infrastructure is being developed. A conference hall is being built together with museums showing monuments, fossils and civilization. As part of its efforts to persuade tourists to visit areas outside the Nile Valley, the Egyptian Tourist Association is trying to encourage tours from Cairo via Fayoum to both the Red Sea coast and Upper Egypt which would undoubtedly be a wonderful and fascinating tour. The city of Fayoum, in the center of the depression, is the province’s capital and the largest of its 5 small cities. The oasis population is 1.45 million. In Fayoum City itself the covered market place and the adjacent street of gold smiths found across the 4th bridge to the west of the central tourist office, are worth a visit . Monasteries Saint Anthony (251-356 AD) acted as an inspiration for hermits and there were soon numerous monasteries throughout the country, including those in the Fayoum Depression. A number of them are still standing today and,although perhaps only for pilgrims and those of specialist interests,are worth visiting. The 12th Century Deir Al-Adhra (Monastery of the Virgin) just off the road to Beni Swef, about 6 km outside Fayoum City,is the most accessible. Further south is the beautiful 7th Century Deir Malak Ghobrial (Monastery of the Angel Gabrial) which is located on the desert escapement above the cultivated lowlands. Deir Hammam,which was originally built in the 6th or 8th Century, is 6 km north of Lahun and Deir Mari Girigis (Monastery of St. George) can be reached by boat from Sidmant Al-Gabal which is 15 km south of Luhun. Even more isolated is Deir Anba Samwail (Monastery of St Samuel) which is about 30 km south of the Fayoum depression and can only be reached by four wheel drive vehicle. Lake Qaroun After the noise,crowds of Cairo the Fayoum oasis, which includes Lake Qaroun, is literally a breath of fresh air. It offers both Egyptian and foreign visitors a relaxing break from city life,a day at the beach and a chance to see oasis life without having to venture too far. It has as well ancient monuments. A relaxing day or two in Fayoum is strongly recommended for those in Cairo who are beginning to feel claustrophobic. Access to Bahr Youssef, canal bisecting Fayoum, trains, buses and taxis from Cairo;all terminate close to the canal in downtown near one of the city’s 8 tourist offices. Negotiate the price then take one of the Hantours (horse-drawn carriages) to your destination. Local buses and taxis serving the oasis can be obtained from the Al- Hawatim terminal to the south of Bahr Youssef. Water-wheels The locals are particularly proud of their water-wheels, first introduced by the Ptolemies and used now as the official symbol of Fayoum province. There are over 200 to see in the region. Besides the 4 large ones behind the tourist office on the main Gomhouria st., the most famous are the series of seven water wheels, about 3 km along Bahr Sinnuris. Baharia oasis Located 365 km south west of Giza and 200 km from Farafra Oasis,the Oases are famous for their palm trees, olives, apricots, rice and corn. Intertwined trees provide attractive scenery with contrast to massive sand dunes. The region is rich in wildlife of migrant birds and deer. Bawiti is the capital of Baharia oases that occupies a hillside. The oases are famous for their 398 mineral and sulphur springs .The most famous are Bir Hakima,Bir Haifa,Bir Al Matar, and Bir EI Ghaba. The old Roman springs flow through cracked stones. Ein EI Bishmo springs are unique because both hot and cold water flow from separate sources then blend in a rocky creek, in addition to AI Qasaa wells. Baharia oases archaeological sites date back to Pharaonic periods. "zis zis" was the original name of the region. Most of the antiquities belong to the 26th dynasty "Saite period". A Major archaeological sites The site of El Qasr houses Ein EI Mifatala,Qarat Helwa and Al Tibniya area that includes Alexander the Great temple. El Maron,El Dist and El Maghrafa antiquities are located next to a limestone temple in El Qasr area. El Bawiti houses, the largest Ptolemaic necropolis dedicated to Ibis bird. Its historic tombs are located in the complex of (Youssef Selim,El Sheikh Soby and Al Farouj). El Heez area is famous for its ancient churches,palaces and Roman tombs. Binantiew tomb dates back to 26th dynasty and represents unique pharaonic paintings. "Valley of The Golden Mummies" has been recently discovered in a Roman necropolis, 6 km from Bawiti. Visitors can arrange safari trips to the oases while enjoying Bedouin folklore in the evenings. Baharia oases are connected with Siwa and Farafra oases through a motorway. The New Valley Oases The New Valley lies in Egypt’s west desert,625 from Cairo. It includes three main Oases: AL-Kharga (the Capital), AL-Dakhla and AL-Farafra. The history of the New Valley goes back to 5000 B.C. It combines desert,lush vegetation, wells and therap springs (cold and hot up to 49"C). Its climate is noted for its dryness that makes it a reputable healthy winter resort. In the desert of the New Valley there is room for Safari and adventure that offers options for sightseeing. AL Kharga Located 600 km from Cairo, 200km West of AL-Dakhla , AL Kharga used to be the last but one stop on the Forty Days Road, the infamous slave-trade route between North Africa and the tropical south. Today,it is the biggest New Valley oasis. Outside the main centre is the Temple of Hibis, built on the site of Saite, Persian and Ptolemaic settlement. One of the few Persian monuments in Egypt, the 6th century B.C. temple is well-preserved with painted vultures and huge reliefs of Darius greeting Egyptian gods on the outer walls. Ten kilometers away, the Necropolis of AL-Bagawat houses 263 mud-brick tombs with Coptic murals, including the remains of one of the oldest churches in Egypt: the Tomb of Peace and the Tomb of the Exodus. Pharaonic monuments include AL- Ghuwayta Temple which dates from 522 B.C, Nadoura Citadel,Qasr El Zayyan that dates back to the Ptolemaic era, and the Museum of Antiquities. The thermal springs of Bulaq and Nasser to the south, are famous for water temperatures up to 43"C and reputed to be suitable for the treatment of rheumatism and allergies. Camping facilities are available. Further south is Paris Oasis, the second largest settlement in AL Kharga. It houses Roman Temple of Dush, dedicated to Isis and Serapis. AL Dakhla Runs from different periods, it is located 200km west of Al Kharga. Dominated on its northern horizon by a wall of rose-coloured rock,fertile cultivated areas are dotted between sand dunes along the roads from Farafra and Kharga in this area of outstanding natural beauty. The capital, Mut,its name is attributed to Mut the consort of god Amon. It is an ancient city that dates back to Pharaonic period. It houses the Museum of Heritage, a traditional house. Rooms, with sculpted clay figures, are arranged to show different aspects of AL Dakhla culture and family life. Islamic Village of AL-Qasr, about 35km from Mut, houses ruins of an Ayubid mosque. The Pharaonic Balat tombs date from the 6th dynasty and Qalamon village dates back to the Turkish era. On the way back to Mut, located Bir AL Gabal, a palm-fringed salt lake where you: can camp and picnic. Other day-trips from Mut could include the 1st century Al-Mozawaka tombs and Deir Al-Hagar, a temple which was originally dedicated to the Theban Triad. After exploring the temple, bathe in the hot sulphur spring nearby. Visit Bashendi to see Roman tombs and a factory where carpets are still woven with scenes of AL Dakhla life. Nearby lies the Islamic Balaat village, a trading post with ancient Nubia. The oasis abounds in springs and wells of which the most famous are those of Mut 3. Their temperature reaches 43C and you can stay in equipped chalets. Ain AL- Qasr springs are located about 12 km in the mountain so that you can camp, enjoy one- day trip and Safari.
Farafra Located between Baharia and Dakhla Oases, 32o km North West of Dakhla. Known as Ta-iht or the Land of the Cow in Pharaonic times,it is an isolated village, of which the oldest part lies on a hillside, next to peaceful palm groves; a short ride away, there are hot sulphur springs at Bir Setta and EL-Mufid Lake where you can swim. The oasis houses Qasr AL-Farafra and Qasr Abu Minqar which are ruins of Roman buildings. An art center that houses a museum and studio exhibiting paintings and ceramics of a local artist is situated in a garden full of sculptures made of materials available in the desert. Beautiful hand-knitted camel- hair sweaters, socks and scarves are also local products. Day-trips by jeep and camel treks from here to the White Desert, Bahariya, Dakhla and Siwa can be arranged. The White Desert A trip to the White Desert is something that no visitor to the New Valley should miss. Travellers coming From Bahariya will cross through the Black Desert, passing the tiny oasis of El Heez on the way. Nearby, there are some Roman ruins, including a church with Coptic graffiti. Bahariya and Farafra are separated by huge golden sand dunes which make a stunning photograph during the journey. Once you enter the White Desert through Al-Sillim passage, you meet a unique landscape of surreal wind-eroded rock formations which is particularly fascinating at sunrise or sunset. Camel and jeep trips, including a hot meal and fresh bread, made in the sand Bedouin style, can be arranged from Farafra. Siwa
Siwa is one of the most fascinating oases on the edge of the Great Sand Sea. Its rich history includes that visit of Alexander the Great to Amun Prophecy Temple in order to predict the prophecy of Amun in 331 BC. Siwans have their own culture and customs, and they speak a Berber language, Siwi, rather than Arabic. Many women still wear traditional costumes and silver jewellery like those displayed in the Traditional Siwan House Museum at the town centre: Siwa remains one of the best places to buy jewellery, rugs, baskets, traditional robes and head-dresses, decorated with antique coins. The original settlement, Aghurmi, was superseded by Shali, founded in 1203. Set among thick palm groves, walled gardens and olive orchards, with numerous fresh- water springs and salt lakes, modern Siwa was established over the ruins of ancient Shali. Climb through the ruins of the old city for magnificent views of the whole oasis. Walk, rent a bicycle or ride in a caretta (donkey cart) to outlying sights and places where you can relax. These include 26th Dynasty tombs with murals and inscriptions at Jebel AL-Mawta (The Hill of The Dead) and the temple of Amun, an acropolis temple dating back to 550 BC. Near the Oracle are the ruined temple of Amun and the famous Cleopatra Bath,a deep pool of bubbling water where you can bathe. Another favourite bathing spot is Fatnis Island, on the salt lake of Birket Siwa, surrounded by palm trees and beautiful scenery. Our source: |
Friday, March 12, 2010
Oases
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Port Said
Port Said |
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It is the second port in Egypt, after Alexandria. The history of establishing Port Said dates back to digging the Suez Canal. It is named after Khedive Said who gave the approval to dig. Location: Port Said is situated at the mouth of the Suez Canal to the north, it is bordered with the Mediterranian, east Sinai, west Manzalah lake and south Ismailia Governorate. Facility: It is an essential port, as vessels coming from Europe transit it on their way to the East and also those ships which come from the East bound for Europe. Port Said has a ship repairing facility. The Suez Canal Authority building with that green dome is located on the Suez Canal’s bank. Port Fouad: It is part of Port Said, situated in Sinai. Nothing separates it from Port Said except the Canal. One can reach it by the ferry boat in a few minutes. In Port Fouad, there are beautiful gardens and a wonderful beach.
History: Although Port Said is not yet 125 years old, it has seen battles for freedom and independence. It was the target of the Tripartite Aggression in 1956, and witnessed acts of bravery against the English and the French military, also during the War of Attrition (1967- 1973). People of Port Said, at that time, have been evacuated to Lower Egypt Governorate. Antiquities and tourist sites: El-Shahid Guad Hosni Museum has been named after an 19 years old hero who struggled bravely against occupation forces and he was imprisoned, tortured and captured by the French. His story has been written with his blood on the walls of prison...It touched the world. He died at the same place where the museum is located. The Military Museum includes mimics of the military struggle against enemies, either with weapons or personal breviaries or army formations. De Lesseps Statue has been raised from its base at the entrance to the Canal, but kept at the ship-building yard of Port Foad. Tombs of martyrs, memorial of the unknown soldier are there for the heroes and martyrs of Port Said, who have opposed aggression. They are the martyrs of wars from 1956 to 1973. Mesallah Square; the oblique was established after the battle of 1956, located at the top of El-Nasr Museum, and illustrating with pictures the honour of this battle. Manzalla Lake represents natural beauty. It is a place which speaks of relaxation. Beaches are wonderful in Port Said, for example El-Gamil, a splendid beach near Manzalla lake which meets the sea near the shore. 7 kilometers off, there is the place of salines. It is a basin of salty water of the sea, left to be evaporated by the heat of the sun, leaving behind salt which after some processes is puified then sent to be used as food salt. Agriculture and Industry: As a result of the lack of agricultural areas, the Governorate started greenhouses to cultivate vegetables in Port Said, besides the covered agriculture. Now, there are 32,000 feddans in the north to be distributed among cooperatives for cultivation, in addition to 152,000 feddans being distributed among youth and also soft ground is being reclaimed like Sahl El-Tina in Sinai (east Port Said) to be cultivated. There are many industries depending on the sea like fishing and canning and also covering oranges with wax to be exported, and others like drainage, bottling, tea, also industries of sweets and clothes making. Now that Port Said is a free zone, it is crowded with merchandises, in addition to big and small industries helping the market. National Day: Port Said celebrates it on 23 December annually. It is the day when enemies left this fearless country, which has faced forces with splendid defiance, ending with triumph. Another Port Said: It is on the eastern bank of the Suez Canal, representing the inner-most. It is a distinctive support for the national project of the development of Sinai, which aims at settling 3 million till the year 2017. Also it has distinguished location paving the way for investment in various fields; industrial, tourist and commercial, besides warehouses, containers and transition export. Great international companies are concerned with establishing the infrastructure of the projects of this zone, at the same time, this helps the international propagation for projects of investment. Marketing this area and its projects is presented for consideration among investors and international firms. The Free Zone: has been established to become a linkage point among the three ancient continents. It is situated in Asia, in close contact with Africa, near Europe and connecting the Arab world’s East to its West, also it is close to the production centers in Europe, Asia and consumption markets in the Middle East and Gulf area. The authorities have started to take their part in propagating for this area then attracting the best international investments to it. Many delegations from other countries visit this area in order to get acquainted with its qualifications, which enables them to establish their projects there. At the same time, this industrial and multipurpose area which has a special geographical location is a distinguished support for North Sinai Governorate helping the planned projects. Till the year 2000, 250 thousand job opportunities will have been made available. Our source : http://www.sis.gov.eg/En/LastPage.aspx?Category_ID=457 |
Rasheed
Rasheed |
| Rasheed governorate is located 65km east of Alexandria. It offered the world the key to the Hieroglyphs, the Rosetta stone which revealed the secrets of the great ancient Egyptian civilization. Rasheed resisted, under the leadership of Governor Ali Bey Al-Salanki and Head of Noblemen Sheik Hassan Kirit, the 1807 Frazer military expedition. Rasheed was known as Khito, a hieroglyphic word meaning "the populace", under king Menes reign. It was famed for military chariots manufacture in the XXVI Dynasty. Under king Minfitah, Rasheed powerfully resisted the Greek and Sicilian attacks. Rasheed hosted a garrison established under Psammetichus I. In the Coptic era, Rasheed was known as "Rasheet". Rasheed governorate’s National Day on 19 September marks the day when the lionhearted people of Rasheed conquered the British army. In 1956, late President Gamal Abd Al-Naser inaugurated Rasheed Museum within the framework of Rasheed’s National Day celebrations. Sidi Ali Al-Mahali: It was established in 1134 Hegira. It consists of 99 columns in various shapes, 6 doors, a nave, an ablution yard covered by a sunshade erected over 12 columns and a library containing 200 valuable books donated by AL-Garem family. Excavations Ancient Buildings Rasheed has two groups of ancient buildings. The first group which locates in the king’s Passageway Street (Dahliz Al-Malek) consists of Kohai, Basyoni, Ramadan, Maharem, Abuhum houses as well as Elwan’s house and agency where leader Ahmed Orabi met Rasheed’s famous merchant Mohammed Elwan. The second group comprising Al-Amsili, Al-Kanadili, Thabet, Tabq, Al-Toqatli, Galal, Al-Manadili and Al-Bawab locates in Sheik Qandil Street. Each house of the second group has its own bathroom containing a stove for heating water and a massage mastaba .
The Antique’s Craft Institution
Marine Sports Burg Rasheed Citadel In 1799, a stone bearing the name of Btolemy V was found inside the citadel. The stone is made of black basalt, is 3 feet high and 2 feet in width. The stone details the meeting of Memphis’ priests to crown Ptolemy V after he conferred money and crop upon temples, exempted the Egyptian people from half of the taxes and debts and declared amnesty for all prisoners as well. In 1985, President Mubarak gave the go-ahead for the restoration of the citadel. Our source is: http://www.sis.gov.eg/En/LastPage.aspx?Category_ID=459 |
Friday, March 5, 2010
El-Ain El-Sukhna
Cairo’s nearest beach ...just an hour to reach
EL-Ain EL-Sukhna: the Arabic for “ hot spring” was named after the nearby sulphur springs .It is also an ideal site for fishing and water sports.
Ain El Sukhna is about 140 km east of Cairo, just an hour away by car. It offers Cairenes recreational time, handy respite from the city’s fast paced life .
The area is 40 km south of the port of Suez and is administratively part of the Suez Governorate. Its territory extends along the Red Sea shoreline for about 60 km from the southern borders of Ras El Adebbya in the north to Ras El Zaafarana in the south.
Close enough to Cairo for a day-trip, this popular weekend resort has fine beaches and coves, coral reefs, fishing and water sports.
This is not just a destination for people wanting a suntan and a week at the beach. It is also a place where you can indulge in history. There is ample evidence that the area had its place in history. It includes a famous group of the world’s oldest monasteries west of Zafarana on the road to Kuraymat.
The most celebrated ones are those of St. Anthony (c. 251 -356), the founding father of monasticism, and St. Paul, which were built more than 16 centuries ago.
Rituals followed inside the monasteries today have hardly changed in hundreds of years.
A group of historians also believe the northern part of the Mount of Galala El Bahareya was the point from which Moses and the Israelites crossed in their exodus from Egypt’s mainland into the Sinai Peninsula. They cite in their claims the fact that the bottom of the Gulf of Suez at this point is elevated.
As the main route to the Indies for Ancient Egyptians and Phoenicians, the Red Sea and its shores and ports also have a rich maritime history.
The area is known for its mild climate all year round. Temperatures range between a high of 32 degrees celsius and a low of 9 degrees in January and show a variation of between 36 degrees and 30 degrees in July .
The average rate of humidity is 50 percent. It ranges between a maximum of 72 percent and a minimum 48 percent in December and shows a variation between 58 percent in May .
Rainfall occurs largely in winter months.
The average number of days having rainfall is 11 days a year, with the rain season spanning the November- May period.
The average amount of rainfall stands at about 24 mm . Winds mainly blow from the north and the northwest gusting at an average.
Flora and Fauna paragon of wildlife.
In spite of the low amounts and frequencies of rainfall, the usual desert growth of perennials and grasses is found.
The Eastern Desert receives spares rainfall, which supports a varied vegetation that includes tamariskaccacia and markh ( a leafless, thorn less tree with bare branches and slendertwigs ) as well as great variety of thorny shrub, small succulent , and romantic herbs .
Date and doum palms,both cultivated and sub spontaneous are found in the Oasis.Desert animals include dorcas gazelle , the miniature desert fox , the mountain goat ibex , the Egyptian hare and two kinds of jerboa( a mouse- like rodent with long hind legs for jumping)the Egyptian jackal and still exists.
There are two carnivorous mammals: species of wildcats and the striped Egyptian mongoose.
Several varieties of lizards are found, including the large monitor. Because Egypt is rich in its bird life and many birds pass through in large numbers
On their spring and autumn migrations, the area has its good share of more than 200 migrating types as well a more than 150 resident birds.
Lammergeir and golden eagles are residents of the Eastern desert and Sinai. Resident desert birds are a distinct category, numbering about 24 kinds.
That exquisite corridor of tinted mountain and radiant water ...here and nowhere else is the vestibule between the Levant and the Topics ..." E.M.Forster describing the Gulf of Suez, 1923.
The area’s topography bestows on it a special lure and charm. It lies in one of the three tires of the eastern desert -the Red Sea Hills and Red Sea Coastal plain.This tier runs from near Suez to the Sudanese border.
The Hills are not a continuous range but consist of sets of interlocking systems more or less alignment. They are geographical complex, with igneous and metamorphic rocks .
As such, it is regarded by Encyclopaedia Britannica as " a sub-region in itself . Ain El Sukhna is famed for two mountains that have religious significance: Attaqa, which rises more than 800 above sea leveland hems in the valleys (wadis ) of Hogouland Chuwaiba.
Galala El Bahareya , the southern periphery of the area , which rises to more than 1,200 m and embarces the valleys of Kuthaib ( 75sq,km), Abul-dorg (68.5sq,km)and smaller ones such as ElMalha and Gar El Malha.
These mountains and valleys constitute a main component in the area’s attractiveness for tourists and local holiday-makers.
There are marks and signs showing that this area had its niche in the annals of history.The 4th century monasteries of St. Anthony the Great and St. Paul in the Eastern Desert, not far from Zafarana, are celebrated as the world’s oldest.
A group of historians believe it was around this area on the Red Sea that Moses and Israelites crossed into the Sinai in their exodus from Egypt.
As the main route to the Indies for ancient Egyptians and Phoenicians, the Red Sea and its shores and ports have a rich maritime history.
The area could be reached by land through one of the following highways & roads:
- The Cairo - Suez Highway 110 km
- The Qattameya - Ein El Sukhna Highway 95 km
- The Kuramat - Zafaran Road 120 km
- The Hurgada - Zafarana Road 320 km
- The Suez - Ain El Sukhna Road 40 km
Our source is :
http://www.sis.gov.eg/En/LastPage.aspx?Category_ID=452Thursday, March 4, 2010
Luxor
Luxor |
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Luxor is the world’s greatest open - air museum, filled with the awe - inspiring monuments of ancient civilization. It contains nearly one third of the world’s antiquities.There is hardly a place in Luxor which has not a relic that reflects the greatness of the ancient Egyptians and their civilization that dates back to seven thousand years ago. During the new kingdom (1567-1085)the capital of Egypt was Wesset which means "mace"to express the extreme authority of this city ,then the name was changed to "Thebes" and Homer described it as " City of the Hundred Gates".The Arabs called it "Luxor" means" The city of Palaces"because they were impressed by its magnificent edifices and huge buildings. It still attracts hordes of visitors from all over the world to enjoy the monuments of the eternal city and its temples with their towering pillars On the two Banks of the Nile On the east bank of the Nile, in the city of the living, Luxor and Karnak temples greet the sunrise.The sunset on the west bank throws shadows through the City of the Dead: the Tombs of the nobles, the valley of the kings,Queen Hatshepsut’s temple. Recently,a bridge connecting the east and west banks has been constructed to speed up tourist traffic to the west bank. The visitor of Luxor can make a journey to enjoy the wonderful tourist sites of Luxor soaring in a ballon above the temples on the east and west banks.Some agencies organize daily ballon journeys which last for one and half hour.
East bank monuments Luxor temple The Southern temple , dedicated to the principal of thebes Amon, it was built by the New Kingdom Pharaoh Amenophis III, and expanded over centuries by famous pharaohs including Ramses II,Tit,and also Alexander the Great. The grandeur of the edifice represents that of Thebes at its zenith It was known to the ancient Egyptians as “lpet Reseyet”, the harem of the South. Karnak Temples Leading to the temples is the avenue of the rams , representing the supreme Theban god Amon,symbol of fertility and growth. Beneath the rams heads, small statues of Ramses II were carved . Karnak is composed of a vast complex of temples, chapels and other buildings of various dates. The name Karnak comes from the nearby village of El-Karnak. Whereas Luxor to the South was Ipet-Ray,Karnak was ancient Ipet-Isut,the most select of places. Theban kings and the god Amon came to prominence at the beginning of the Middle Kingdom. From that time,the temples of Karnak were built,enlarged,torn down,added to,and restored over more than 2000 years until Roman times. The ancient Egyptians considered Ipet-Isut as the place of the initial rising of the first time, where Amon-Ra made the first mound of Earth rise from Nun. At Karnak,the high priests recognized a king as the beloved son of Amon,king of all the gods. The coronations and jubilees were also held here. Staffed by more than 80,000 people under Ramesses III,the temple was also the administrative center of enormous holdings of agricultural land. The largest and most important part of the site is the central enclosure, the great temple of Amon proper. The layout of the great temple consists of a series of pylons of various dates. The earliest are Pylons IV and V,built by Tuhtmosis I,and from then on the temple was enlarged towards the West and South. Courts or halls run between the pylons,leading to the main sanctuary. The temple is built along two axes, with a number of smaller temples and chapels and a sacred lake. The northern enclosure belongs to Montu, the original god of the Theban area, while the enclosure of Mut lies to the south and is connected with Amon’s precinct by an alley of ram-headed sphinxes. An avenue bordered by sphinxes linked Karnak with the Luxor Temple, and canals connected the temples of Amon and Montu with the Nile.
The Sound and Light Show This spellbinding show ,through the exquisite use of words,light and music, tells the story of these magnificent Karnak temples .The program is presented in Arabic,English, French German,Spanish. Luxor Museum The museum is situated between the Temples of Luxor and Karnak. It houses pharaonic relics from Luxor and the nearby areas . Mummifucation museum Recently inaugurated in the visitors centre in Luxor, it is the only one of its kind in the world.It houses 150 relics of mummies, coffins, tools the ancient Egyptian physician used,and paintings representing the religious funeray rituals. West bank monuments The Clossi of Memnon These two statues of Amenophis III measuring 18 meters once marked the entrance to the largest temple in Thebes It covered 385,000 square meters (4,200,000 square feet), and it was even larger than the temple of Amon-Re at Karnak. Due to an earthquake in 27 BC,these statues were damaged and became known for a bell like tone that usually occurred in the morning . They were associated by the early Greek travelers with the figure of Memnon, the son of Aurora whose mother,Eos was the goddess of dawn. Med net Habu temple This complex was built by Ramses II in the form of a fortified town which includes a temple, a place,and several chapels. Scenes depicted on the walls commemorate his victories over the Libyans,the Sarinians,the Cretans and others.They also includes unique reliefs of a sea battle. Later Kings including Hatshepsut and Thutmose II added chapels to the complex, and Ptolemaic Kings renovated it The Ramesseum This is the warrior King Ramses II’s mortuary temple at western Thebes that has inspired Shelley’s sonnet “Ozymandias”. Its murals record the renowned Battle of Kadesh against Halite’s. Its hallmark is a pillard hall with giant statues of Ramses II in Osirid form, wrapped in a blanket and holding sceptres. Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple El-Deir El-Bahari Hatshepsut, the only woman to rule over Egypt as pharaoh, named her temple “Djeser-Djeseru” the splendor of splendors. The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut is one of the most dramatically situated in the world. The queen’s architect, Senenmut, designed it and set it at the head of a valley overshadowed by the Peak of Thebes. A tree lined avenue of sphinxes led up to the temple, and ramps led from terrace to terrace. On the lowest terrace are reliefs depicting the transport of obelisks by barge to Karnak and the miraculous birth of Queen Hatshepsut. Reliefs on the South side of the middle terrace show the queen’s expedition by way of the Red Sea to Punt, the land of incense. Along the front of the upper terrace, a line of large, gently smiling Osirid statues of the queen looked out over the valley. Tombs
Tombs of the Valley of the kings King Tut Ankh Amon ’s Tomb The Kings of the 18th, 19th, and 20th, dynasties carved their towards into the limstone mountains here and decorated them with designs showing the deceased Kings with the gods in the afterworld and texts from the book of the dead,and the book of the underworld. King Tut Ankh Amon’s tomb , the most famous tomb in the valley of the kings , circa 1352 BC. In 1922 ,Howard Carter’s discovery of king Tut’s fabulous treasures caused a worldwide sensation Other interesting and well-preserved tombs are those of Seti I,Ramses III,and Ramses II. Valley of the Queens Queen Nefertari’s Tomb The tombs of Nefertari wife of Ramses II is the most renowned at the Valley of the Queens. It boasts restored vivid murals and instions. Tombs of the Nobles :The most important are:the tombs of Nakht,Menena,Ra’as mes Ramuza,Senefru. The Tombs of Deir el-Medina: The most important is the tomb of Sen Negem. Temple of Dendera On the West Bank of Qena city 60 km north of Luxor. It is one of the Greco-Roman temples for the worship of goddess Hathor. It was built by King Ptolemy III and its construction was completed by the Roman Emperors. The ceiling of the hypostyle room has an astronomic decoration with the symbolic representation of the sky. Temple of Esna South of Luxor, constructed for the worship of god Khnum, the god of creation, in the form of a ram’s head. It is one of the Greco- Roman temples within the hypostyle hall constructed by King Ptolemy VI and completed by the Roman emperors. Nearby is a Christian monastery. It is the monastery of Manaus and El Shohada, constructed in the fourth century. But the monastery of the three thousand six hundred martyrs includes two churches; the walls of one of them are decorated with a fresco that dates from the tenth century. Religious sites of Luxor Abul-Haggag al-Oqsuri mosque at Luxor temple.Coptic Church neighboring the mosque in Luxor temple Monasteries El-Shayeb Monastery, 7km north of the city Mari Guirgis Monastery on the west bank Muhareb Monastery, 4km from the west bank of the Nile.Visitors of Luxor can make a journey to see the two temples of Dendera and Esna |
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Ras Sedr
Ras Sedr |
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Ras Sedr lies at the crossroads of axes of movement between the East and the West in the Sinai Peninsula. This tourist area has a distinctive place in the annals of history; one made more outstanding reference in holy books describing events that had occurred there. The area ha consequently become a tourist destination that has long been luring travelers and writers since the days of Herodotus, who lived more than 24 centuries ago. The area was also given considerable attention in the researches and records of scholars accompanying the SINAI French army of Napoleon,whose fantasies were El-s whipped up by such sites as "Moses Springs, "the Pharoah ’s Bath " and the " the AI-Gharandal Valley. Tourist attractions Tourism assets of the area are so varied: natural, such as the mild climate, beach overlooking azure sea waters,fabulous mountains,valleys,natural water springs and unique flora and fauna. It also has such cultural attractions as battle and historical sites,Bedouin heritage,and Sinai handicrafts. Mountains and Valleys The range of famed Sinai Mountains extends behind the coastal plains. They include the mountains of Far’oun (Pharaoh), EL-Teeh (Diaspora) and Om Katheera .They hem in the valleys of Al-Gharandal and Abu-Gada, which are charming destinations for lovers of safari tourism and mountain climbers. Springs and Wells Mineral and hot water springs spread all around the coastal and mountain areas .Foremost among them are the Moses sulfur springs, whose water temperature ranges between 35 and 40 degrees,and the Pharaoh’s Bath. whose sulfur water temperature reaches up to 75 degrees. Flora and Fauna Ras Sedr is known for the mountain goat ibex, particularly popular among Sinai’s hunters, and for camels trained on trekking rugged mountain valleys. Vegetation is more copious in Ras Matarma and the valleys of Al-Gharandal and Abu-Gada.It includes tamarisk trees and doum and date palms.The area attracts many kinds of birds,such as quails and partridges in their seasons of migrating from the north, particularly in Ras Matarma. Historical sites and attraction The area was a station on the path of the exodus of Moses and Israelites from Egypt. Its passages were also the scene of many religious events and incidents described in holy books. They had also witnessed many military battles throughout history and were trodden and frequented by merchants’ caravans over the various ages. The area has long been regarded as historical destination. The area stretches for 95 km along the eastern coast of the Suez Gulf in one of the most spectacular spots in the province of South Sinai. The area is divided into two main zones, each encompassing a group of tourist centers comprising of several tourism and service projects and facilities. Northern Ras Sedr It Includes following Centers : 1- Ras Masalla 2- South Oyun Moses 3- Moses Springs (Ouyoun Moussa) Southern Ras Sedr It Includes following Centers : 1- Northern Ras Matarma 2- Southern Ras Matarma 3- EL-Nekhela 4- Ras malaab The Touristic Potentialities of the region Ras Sedr is the nearest part of South Sinai to Cairo, Delta and the Nile Valley. It is easily accessible through Ahmed Hamdy Tunnel that is located 130 k.m. fom Cairo. This renders Ras Sedr a very suitable place for the One - day visits. Furthemore, the touristic marketing of Ras Sedr is very successful, for it overlookes the best coasts of South Sinai. Ras Sedr Airport Recently, the touristic demand on Ras Sedr increases so much which prompted the idea of constructing Ras Sedr Airport, Financing the construction of the airport depends on the Egyptian and foreign investors of Ras Sedr . For it is going to facilitate the trip from Cairo to Sedr just 30 minutes . The arport can receive also charter trips coming from broad . The Natural Potentialities of Ras Sedr There are also deserts, mountains, valleys, shores and water springs in Ras Sedr that encourage many patterns of tourism like recreational tourism, Coastal tourism and safari ,together with scientific and eco-tourism . Ras Sedr is famous for its Coral reef, various kinds of fish and natural herbs growing abudantly and used in health tourism .Centered around sulfuric watersprings in hammam pharaon, oyun Moses and Ain Taraky . The Nature of the Coast Ras Sedr is blessed with many shore and nature bays that extends along the Coast . There are flat and semiflat sandy shores naturally graded shores and highly eleialted omes Takig . Bedouin heritage and Bedouin handicraft Bedouins of the area are noted for jewelry inlaid with the valued Sinai turquoise (fayrouz), charming garments and handicrafts food,beverages,special customs,dwellings and Sinai’s folklore. Most of the Bedouins are animal herders who migrate into desert during the rainy winter season and move back toward the cultivated land or areas with vegetation in the dry summer months. Although nomadism has changed in the 20th century, the tribal character of the Bedouins continued, as did the patriarchal extended families. |
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Aswan
Aswan |
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It is situated on the eastern bank of the Nile 899 km south of Cairo. Aswan is considered the most beautiful winter resort not only in Egypt, but also in the whole world as it is distinguished by its fascinating nature and serenity far from the bustle of cities,and its warm weather which is characterized by dryness and sunshine throughout the year. One can spend a pleasant time wandering along the Nile corniche where the sandy tourmaline desert merges with granite rocks around aquamarine isles covered with palm trees and plants.One can also take a Nile cruise with sail-boats at sunset or a tour in the market which abounds in handicrafts,local products,spices and perfumes.
Main tourist’s sites: Elephantine Island It was one of the most powerful forts on Egypt’s southern borders. It lies opposite the old Cataract Hotel. On the island there are the relics of stone temples of various eras including the temple of Khnum,erected during the old Kingdom and reconstructed at the turn of the Pharaonic era.The island houses "The Nilometer" dating back to the Roman era and also a museum containing an important collection of relics of the Greco-Roman eras which were discovered in Aswan and Nubia. Plantation (Kitchener) Island It lies in the mid-stream near Elephantine Island. It is a natural exhibition of exotic plants and trees imported from all over the world.It is the best place for spending leisure time relaxing in expansive shades.  Philae Temple This temple was dedicated to goddess Isis. It was over flooded by the Nile. Philae temple was dismantled and reassembled in a new site on Agilika Island,about 500 km from its former site on Philae Island. The unfinished Obelisk A huge obelisk incompletely carved,about 41 metres high and  more than 1150 tons in weight. It owes its importance to the fact that it shows the techniques the ancient Egyptians used in carving obelisks.There is the Fatimid cemetery which includes hundreds of tombs built of mud brick that dates back to the ninth century. The Nubian Museum The construction of the museum in Aswan is regarded as a great success of the international campaign for saving the monuments of Nubia which was supported byUNESCO. The museum houses three thousand artifacts representing various archaeological periods throughout the history of Egypt (prehistoric, Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, Coptic and the Islamic). The Culturual Centre in Aswan The Cultural Centre in Aswan by Corniche El Nile,presents evening shows of Nubian folk art. The performances reflect local traditional life pattern of Nubians covering dance,music and ethnic festivals. The High Dam  The High Dam is one of the outstanding architectural ahievements of the twentieth century.It was constructed to replace the old Aswan dam built in 1902. The High Dam was constructed to protect Egypt from the floods as well as providing irrigation and electricity all over Egypt. It is 3600 meters long.Visitors can easily locate Lake Nasser which is a huge water reservoir. West Bank tourist sites: Tombs of the Nobles hey are carved in the rocks of the west mountain opposite to the north end of Aswan city. They date back to the 23rd century B.C.Inside the tombs are decorated with vivid murals depicting scenes of everyday life, hieroglyphic biographies and inscriptions showing the noblemen journeys into Africa. The Agha Khan Masusoleum: It features a typical architecture of the Fatimid style. Agha Khan was the late leader of the Ismaili sect, who preferred to spend winter every year in Aswan. The Monastery of St.Simeon: It dates back to the 6th century A.D. It is one of the most intact Coptic monasteries which includes a church, whose frescoes are still extant representing Jesus Christ and the Saints. Visitors can make tours to Kom ombo and Edfu by feluccas, coach or taxi Kom Ombo Temple It is located in Kom ombo town, 45 km north of Aswan. It is built on a hillside overlooking the Nile. This temple was constructed in the Ptolemaic Roman era for the worship of god Haroeris and Sobek, the crocodile god.It is noted for relief engravings on its walls which show ancient surgical tools,bone saws and dentistry tools. Nearby there are three mummified crocodiles.They are now in Hathor’s chapel. Near Kom ombo you can go on a visit to camel market held every Tuesday in Draw, where camels brought from north Sudan to be sold. Edfu Temple It lies in Edfu town, 123 km north of Aswan on the west bank of the Nile. It dates back to the Ptolemaic period.It was dedicated to the worship of god Horus represented as a falcon. It is one of the most beautiful Egyptian temples,distinguished by its huge splendid structure that blends Pharaonic and Greek architecture. Its grandeur competes with Luxor temples. It is the second largest temple after Karnak. It also houses the Nilometer and a huge pylon at the entrance. It was discovered in 1860 by the famous archaeologist Mariette. On its walls are reliefs which depict the history of Ptolemy’s and reflect religious belief and art style of the period. Nubia Once the ancient kingdom of Kush,Nubia houses archaeological sites of great interest: temples, fortresses and tombs.The construction of the high dam posed a great danger of overflooding the temples of Philae,Kalabsha and Abu Simbel. The Nubians still retain their customs, traditions, language and architecture. One can enjoy a cruise Lake Nasser by boats to explore the new Nubia after relocating the flooded temples. Temples of Nubia: Temple of Kalabsha It dates back to the Greco-Roman era. Built by the Roman Emperor Octavius Augustus and dedicated to the Nubian god Mandolis. Temple of Beit AL-Wali Dates back to the reign of Ramses II. Its walls are decorated with bright coloured reliefs depicting the military victories of the king. Kiosk of Kertassi Dedicated to the goddess Isis, with two magnificent Hathohic columns. Temple of Amada The oldest temple in Nubia,built by three pharaohs of the Thutmosis dynasty. Temple of Derr Next to Amada temple,built by Ramses II ,and dedicated to the sun god Ra. Temple of Penout The only surviving tomb of an Egyptian viceroy in Nubia. Kasr Ibrim The relics of an ancient citadel. Wadi al-Seboua’ Temple Constructed in the reign of Ramses II for the worship of god Amon. Temple of Dakka Built by Amenophis II dedicated to Thot. It was reconstructed in the Graeco-Roman era. Abu Simbel Situated 280km south of Aswan, the two temples of Abu Simbel are the most magnificent temples in the world. The first temple was built by the mighty Pharaoh Ramses II,the other for his wife Queen Nefertari. Their relocation is an achievement supported and managed by UNESCO. The Great Temple of Abu Simbel ( Ramses II ) It is built by Ramses II. It is distinguished by its main façade with four colossal statues of Ramses II sit enthroned wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. The temple was dedicated to the sun god Ra’ Horakhti.The most interesting relic is the Qadesh battle scene recording his victories over the Hittites. It was built on a strict east –west axis so that the morning sun actually reached the innermost sanctuary at dawn, illuminating the statues of Ptah,Amon,Ramses II,and Ra –Horakhty twice a year. The Small Temple of Abu Simbel ( Nefertari ) It is located 50 metres from the great temple. It was built by Ramses II for his beautiful wife Nefertari to be worshipped with other gods. It is also called the temple of Hathor, the goddess of love and beauty. Its facade is adorned by six statues four for Ramses II and two for his wife Nefertari.The walls of the temple are decorated with scenes depicting Ramses and Nefertari offering sacrifices to the gods. Sound and Light show of Abu Simbel temples Three daily shows are held in variouslanguages. |
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