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  • Egypt Aswan Governorate Aswan

    Aswan Governerate in Egypt

    Aswan was known as ‘Sonu’ in ancient Egyptian times, meaning market, as it was a trading centre for caravans coming to and from Nubia. In the Ptolemaic era, it was called ‘Sin’ and the Nubians called it ‘Yaba Swan’. It was also known as the Land of Gold because it served as a great treasure or tomb for the kings of Nubia who lived there for thousands of years. Before the migration, Aswan's borders extended from Asna in the east to the border of Sudan in the south, and its inhabitants were Nubians, but after the Islamic conquest of Nubia, some Arab tribes settled there.

  • Things to Do in Luxor

    About Luxor Governorate in Egypt

    The South Upper Egyptian area is home to the Egyptian governorate of Luxor. Its capital is Luxor, which was formerly Thebes, the capital of Egypt throughout multiple pharaonic eras. Its centers and cities are spread over both sides of the Nile River. The said governorate was established by Presidential Decree No. 378 of 2009, which was promulgated on the 9th of December of that year.

  • kafr El Sheikh Governorate | kafr El Sheikh Governorate History

    History of kafr El Sheikh Governorate

    Kafr El Sheikh Governorate, located in the far north of Egypt in the Nile Delta, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is characterised by the diversity of natural life and environments, and is one of the Egyptian cities that can be visited after the end of the first semester exams at universities and schools, as it features many diverse tourist and recreational places at symbolic prices within everyone's reach.

  • Egypt's New Administrative Capital City

    Egypt's New Administrative Capital

    The New Administrative Capital is considered the project of the era because it reflects a perfect image of the future and progress on the economic, cultural, social and civilisational level, as the capital is considered the new capital of Egypt at the present time. The importance of the New Capital is that it is a comprehensive transformation of the future of buildings, services and national and mega projects in Egypt.

  • Historical Importance of Al Gharbia

    Al Gharbia Governorate

    The Governorate of Gharbia is inclusive in the geographical area of The Arab Republic of Egypt which is in the African continent, more specifically in the region surrounding the Nile delta, between Damietta and Rashid governance. To the control of the region from the north is Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, from the south Menoufia Governorate, from the east – Dakahlia, Qalyubia Governorates, and to the west is the Beheira Governorate.

  • Marsa Alam City

    Hamata Islands (Qulaan Archipelago) in Marsa Alam

    Each reserve has several sectors. In Wadi El Gemal Reserve, there is one of the natural areas called the Hamata area or Hamata sector in Wadi El Gemal Reserve. Its sectors are the perfect and most ecological, land and water, and host countless animals and plants found in the oceans and on the land.

Wadi El Rayyan

Information about Al Fayoum

  • 05 16, 2023

El Fayoum Oasis, a captivating and historically rich region located in Egypt, is a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient heritage. Nestled in the western desert, approximately 130 kilometers southwest of Cairo, El Fayoum is renowned for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and historical significance.

Geographic and Environmental Features

El Fayoum Oasis is characterized by its distinctive geographical features. It is situated in the depression of the Nile Valley, which has created a fertile area amidst the arid desert landscape. The oasis is fed by the Nile through the Bahr Youssef canal, which was originally constructed by the Pharaohs to bring water to the region. This canal continues to sustain the lush agricultural lands of the oasis, making it a vital area for farming and water resources in an otherwise dry environment.

Lake Qarun

One of the most prominent features of El Fayoum is Lake Qarun, an ancient saline lake that is one of the oldest in the world. The lake, which covers an area of approximately 240 square kilometers, is a key ecological feature of the oasis. It supports a range of wildlife, including migratory birds and fish, and is a crucial resource for local fishermen. The lake's water levels fluctuate seasonally, influencing both the local climate and the agricultural cycles in the region.

Historical Significance

El Fayoum has been inhabited since ancient times and boasts a rich historical heritage. Its history dates back to Pharaonic Egypt, where it was known for its agricultural productivity. The region was considered a vital grain-producing area and played a significant role in the economic and cultural life of ancient Egypt.

Ancient Temples and Ruins

The oasis is home to several important archaeological sites. The ancient city of Crocodilopolis, modern-day Medinet el-Fayoum, was a major center of worship for the crocodile god Sobek. Temples and ruins from this period, including the Temple of Sobek and a number of tombs, offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the time.

Another notable site is the village of Tunis, famous for its pottery and traditional crafts. The area has been continuously inhabited and its craftsmanship reflects a blend of ancient techniques and modern artistry.

Modern Attractions and Activities

Today, El Fayoum is a popular destination for both local and international tourists, offering a range of activities and attractions:

Nature and Wildlife: The oasis is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Lake Qarun, the Wadi El Rayan Protected Area, and the Wadi El Hitan (Whale Valley), which is known for its fossilized whale skeletons and UNESCO World Heritage status. These sites provide excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

Agricultural Tours: El Fayoum’s traditional farming methods and its lush agricultural lands attract those interested in agritourism. Visitors can tour local farms, experience traditional farming practices, and sample the region's fresh produce.

Cultural Experiences: The oasis is known for its vibrant local culture. Visitors can engage with local artisans, explore traditional crafts, and enjoy the hospitality of the region’s communities.

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 Excursionists from Cairo make a diversion to the bucolic region of the Fayoum, where they discover fossilised whales, temples erected in honour of the crocodile gods and a flourishing pottery industry. Millennia before the dams built on the Nile kept the crocodiles away, the Fayoum oasis was the epicentre of the cult of the Egyptian crocodile god Sobek. On a map of Egypt, this 6,000km2 region looks like a broad sheet emerging from the lush banks of the Nile in Lower Egypt. Today, it's a chance to escape the traffic jams and dusty skyscrapers of Cairo and discover a peaceful, verdant land, just an hour's drive south of the capital.

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