Latest Articles

Best Things to Do in Nile River

The Nile’s tourism potential is excessive; from southern Egypt and all the way to the northern regions, The Nile River makes some of the most pleasant tourist places in Cairo on the Nile, for Egyptian dwellers and even the visitors, who traveled to Egypt for the pleasures of the country and people.
The Monastery of El Suryan | Deir Al-Surian Cairo Attractions

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary the Syrian is considered one of the oldest monasteries in the history of the church, dating back to approximately the fifth century AD, as various sources indicate. The old fortress is located to the right of the entrance to the monastery, although it has been restored.
Traditional Egyptian food

Each Arab country has its own character, and Egypt is one of the most famous countries for food. Egyptians are known for their love of food, so they excelled in making dishes and inventing new things. The most famous Egyptian dishes are falafel, koshari, stuffed vegetables of all kinds, and molokhia.
Dolphin House Marsa Allam

Wadi El Gemal Nature Reserve in Marsa Alam is taking several measures to preserve the lives of Red Sea dolphins, which are a national treasure and a source of attraction and tourist income for diving and snorkeling, and to generate financial income for the state by collecting visit fees.
Tanis: The Lost City of the Pharaohs

In the northeast of the Nile Delta in the Sharqia Governorate, about 150 km from Cairo, lies the city of “Tanis”, which is currently known as the city of “San El-Hagar”, that historical city or unknown capital that was founded on the banks of the Nile thousands of years ago, and was also known as “Ga’net” and “Sa’an”.
Tell Basta Museum in Al-Sharqiyah

An ancient site called Tell Basta is located outside of Zagazig in the Sharqia Governorate. It was one of the ancient Egyptian capitals and a significant place of worship. In the Old Kingdom, it served as the capital of the 18th province. During the 22nd Dynasty, it was the capital of every province. In the past, it was referred to as "Per-Bastet" in honour of "Bastet," the god of comfort, joy, and happiness. Later, "Tell Basta" was used instead.

Information about Kharga Oasis

05 16, 2023

The Historical Significance of Kharga Oasis

Kharga Oasis, situated in Egypt’s Western Desert, has long been a pivotal location due to its strategic position and historical richness. As one of Egypt's primary oases, Kharga has played a crucial role throughout ancient and medieval history, contributing to its reputation as a significant cultural and economic center.

Ancient Beginnings

Kharga Oasis has been inhabited since antiquity, with its history tracing back to the Pharaonic era. The oasis’s importance grew as it became a crucial stop on the ancient caravan routes connecting Egypt with the rest of Africa and the Middle East. Its location made it a vital link in the trade network, facilitating the exchange of goods such as gold, incense, and other commodities.

Ancient Egyptian Influence: The oasis was known for its agricultural potential, which was harnessed by the ancient Egyptians. The fertile land provided essential resources for trade and sustenance. Temples and tombs in the region suggest that it was an area of religious significance as well.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

Roman Era: During the Roman period, Kharga Oasis flourished as a major administrative and military center. The Romans constructed several forts and infrastructure to protect and control the trade routes. The ruins of these Roman fortifications, including the well-preserved Temple of Hibis, highlight the oasis’s strategic importance. The Temple of Hibis, dedicated to the deity Amon, stands as a testament to the Roman architectural influence in the region.

Byzantine Influence: Following the Roman era, Kharga continued to be a key settlement during the Byzantine period. The remains of Byzantine-era churches and monasteries provide evidence of the Christian presence in the oasis and its role as a center of religious and cultural activity.

Islamic and Medieval Periods

Islamic Era: With the advent of Islam, Kharga Oasis remained an important location. During the Islamic period, the oasis served as a hub for religious scholars and travelers. The architecture from this period includes mosques and administrative buildings that reflect the Islamic influence on the region’s cultural and architectural landscape.

Medieval Significance: Throughout the medieval period, Kharga continued to be a crucial center of trade and agriculture. The oasis’s role in the broader economic and political landscape of the region was marked by its continued use as a trading post and its contribution to regional agriculture.

Modern Era

In contemporary times, Kharga Oasis is recognized for its historical and archaeological significance. The oasis is part of Egypt's New Valley Governorate and has become a focus for tourism and conservation. Modern developments have sought to balance the preservation of its rich history with the needs of contemporary development.

Tourism: Today, Kharga Oasis attracts visitors interested in exploring its historical sites, including the Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, and Islamic architecture. The area’s natural beauty, including its expansive desert landscapes and hot springs, adds to its appeal as a destination.

Archaeological Efforts: Ongoing archaeological work continues to uncover new aspects of the oasis’s past, shedding light on its role in ancient trade routes and its historical development over millennia.

Share On Social Media:

Egypt Tours FAQ

Read top Egypt tours FAQs

Compared to other Egyptian towns, the oasis of El Harga escapes the control of the Nile and refuses to fall into its valley. It is unaware that the desert is not always the mother of drought or a refuge from the unknown. The Kharga oasis is the ideal place for an interesting safari in the western desert. The Kharga Oasis is the largest and most densely populated oasis in the Western Desert. It is also the most developed oasis thanks to the government's efforts to modernise Egypt's Western Desert. The town of Kharga is too contemporary not to feel like an oasis, with the exception of the surrounding villages. There are still some superb palm and fruit trees to be admired. Kharga can therefore be considered an ideal base for an exciting Egyptian safari in the Western Desert. In and around the town, you can visit ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman sites, including the Temple of Hibis, and buy pottery from local merchants at the simple market (souk) in the southern part of the town. In Kasr, the main town in the oasis, you can visit the interesting Kharga Museum of Antiquities. Ancient Coptic monuments such as the necropolis of Al-Bagawat and the monastery of Deir Al-Kashef can be explored in the vicinity of Kharga. Visit the website

Yes, many local residents in Egypt regard tourists as respected guests and show them great hospitality and willingness to assist.

Cairo Top Tours Partners

Check out our partners

Information about Kharga Oasis

Latest Articles

Best Things to Do in Nile River

The Monastery of El Suryan | Deir Al-Surian Cairo Attractions

Traditional Egyptian food

Dolphin House Marsa Allam

Tanis: The Lost City of the Pharaohs

Tell Basta Museum in Al-Sharqiyah

Information about Kharga Oasis

Egypt Tours FAQ

What are the historical and modern charms of the El Harga oasis?

Do local residents in Egypt like tourists?

Cairo Top Tours Partners