Travel : Egypt - its history , top places to visit & other details

 

Egypt, known for its ancient civilization and monumental heritage, is one of the world's oldest and most culturally rich countries. The history of Egypt spans thousands of years, dating back to around 3100 BC when Upper and Lower Egypt were unified under the first pharaoh, Narmer. The civilization flourished along the Nile River, creating one of the greatest early civilizations with significant contributions in writing, architecture, art, and governance.

Egypt's history is traditionally divided into several periods:

- **Predynastic Period (before 3100 BC)**: Characterized by early settlements and the development of agricultural communities along the Nile.

- **Early Dynastic Period (c. 3100–2686 BC)**: Marked by the unification of Egypt and the establishment of the first dynasties.

- **Old Kingdom (c. 2686–2181 BC)**: Known for the construction of the pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Giza.

- **Middle Kingdom (c. 2055–1650 BC)**: A period of reconsolidation and stability.

- **New Kingdom (c. 1550–1070 BC)**: The height of Egyptian power, marked by the rule of famous pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Hatshepsut.

- **Late Period (c. 664–332 BC)**: A time of foreign invasions and internal decline.

- **Ptolemaic and Roman Periods (332 BC–AD 641)**: Egypt was ruled by the Ptolemaic dynasty, established by Alexander the Great's general Ptolemy, followed by Roman and Byzantine control.

Modern Egypt emerged in the 19th century, experiencing significant social and political changes, culminating in the establishment of the Republic in 1953.

### Best Places to Visit in Egypt

1. **Cairo**:

   - **Giza Pyramids and Sphinx**: Iconic ancient monuments on the outskirts of Cairo.

   - **Egyptian Museum**: Home to an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.

   - **Khan El Khalili Bazaar**: A bustling marketplace offering a glimpse into traditional Egyptian culture.

2. **Luxor**:

   - **Valley of the Kings**: The burial site of many pharaohs, including Tutankhamun.

   - **Karnak Temple**: One of the largest temple complexes in the world.

   - **Luxor Temple**: A magnificent temple located on the east bank of the Nile.

3. **Aswan**:

   - **Philae Temple**: A beautiful temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis.

   - **Aswan High Dam**: An engineering marvel that controls the flooding of the Nile.

   - **Nubian Village**: Offers a unique cultural experience.

4. **Alexandria**:

   - **Bibliotheca Alexandrina**: A modern library and cultural center commemorating the ancient Library of Alexandria.

   - **Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa**: An ancient necropolis and one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.

   - **Qaitbay Citadel**: A 15th-century fortress on the Mediterranean coast.

5. **Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada**:

   - **Ras Mohammed National Park**: Renowned for its coral reefs and marine life.

   - **Diving and Snorkeling**: World-class diving spots in the Red Sea.

6. **Siwa Oasis**:

   - **Siwa Oasis**: A remote and picturesque oasis with natural springs and ancient ruins.

### The Nile in Egypt

The Nile River is the lifeline of Egypt, playing a pivotal role in the country’s history, culture, and economy. It is the longest river in the world, flowing northward through northeastern Africa, ultimately emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. In Egypt, the Nile runs for about 1,000 miles, providing essential water resources for agriculture, drinking, and transportation.

#### Historical Significance

The Nile has been central to the development of Egyptian civilization since ancient times. The predictable flooding of the Nile provided fertile soil for agriculture, enabling the growth of the ancient Egyptian civilization. The river’s annual inundation deposited rich, black silt on the land, creating a productive environment for farming and supporting a stable food supply.

The Nile was also a crucial transportation route, facilitating trade and communication between Upper and Lower Egypt. Many of Egypt’s most important historical sites, including the Pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings, are located along the Nile.

#### Major Attractions Along the Nile

1. **Cairo**:

   - **Nile Cruises**: Experience the river's beauty and Cairo’s skyline by taking a traditional felucca or a modern cruise.

   - **Nile Corniche**: A scenic riverside promenade in Cairo, ideal for walks and dining.

2. **Luxor**:

   - **Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple**: Magnificent temples located on the east bank of the Nile.

   - **Valley of the Kings**: Located on the west bank, where many pharaohs were buried.

3. **Aswan**:

   - **Aswan High Dam**: An impressive feat of engineering that controls the Nile’s flooding and generates hydroelectric power.

   - **Philae Temple**: A beautiful temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis, accessible by boat.

4. **Kom Ombo and Edfu**:

   - **Temple of Kom Ombo**: Dedicated to both the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus.

   - **Temple of Edfu**: One of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt, dedicated to the god Horus.

5. **Nile Delta**:

   - **Alexandria**: Located at the mouth of the Nile, offering historical sites like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Qaitbay Citadel.

#### Activities and Experiences

- **Nile Cruises**: One of the most popular ways to explore Egypt’s ancient wonders, with routes typically running between Luxor and Aswan. These cruises offer a luxurious and leisurely way to see the temples, tombs, and rural life along the riverbanks.

- **Felucca Rides**: Traditional wooden sailboats that provide a serene and authentic experience of the Nile.

- **Fishing and Bird Watching**: The Nile is home to a variety of fish and bird species, making it a great spot for fishing and bird watching.

#### Environmental and Economic Importance

The Nile remains vital for Egypt’s agriculture, providing water for irrigation in a predominantly arid country. The river also supports fishing and tourism industries, contributing significantly to the economy. However, the Nile faces challenges such as pollution, overuse of water resources, and geopolitical tensions with upstream countries regarding water rights and dam constructions.

The Nile River, with its historical grandeur and contemporary significance, continues to be the heart of Egypt, sustaining life and culture in this ancient land.

### Best Seasons to Visit Egypt

The best times to visit Egypt are during the cooler months, typically from October to April. Here's a breakdown:

- **October to April**: The weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, especially from December to February, when temperatures are most comfortable.

- **May to September**: These months are extremely hot, especially in southern regions like Luxor and Aswan. However, this is the best time for visiting the Red Sea resorts where you can enjoy beach activities and diving.

Visiting Egypt during the cooler months ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable experience, allowing you to explore its rich history and stunning landscapes without the extreme heat.

### Best Cuisines in Egypt

Egyptian cuisine is rich and diverse, reflecting the country's long history and cultural influences. Here are some of the best dishes you should try:

1. **Koshari**:

   - A popular street food and national dish made from a mixture of rice, lentils, chickpeas, and macaroni, topped with tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.

2. **Ful Medames**:

   - Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Often served for breakfast with bread.

3. **Ta’ameya (Egyptian Falafel)**:

   - Made from ground fava beans instead of chickpeas, these deep-fried patties are often served in sandwiches with tahini and salad.

4. **Molokhia**:

   - A green, leafy vegetable soup flavored with garlic and coriander, typically served over rice or with bread and chicken.

5. **Mahshi**:

   - Vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.

6. **Shawarma**:

   - Thinly sliced marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with garlic sauce and vegetables.

7. **Kebabs and Kofta**:

   - Grilled meat skewers and spiced ground meat patties, often served with rice, bread, or salad.

8. **Hamam Mahshi**:

   - Pigeon stuffed with rice or bulgur wheat, then roasted or grilled.

9. **Besarah**:

   - A dish made from pureed fava beans mixed with green herbs and served with bread.

10. **Baklava**:

    - A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

Connectivity 

Egypt is served by several airlines, with EgyptAir being the national carrier. Here are the main airlines operating in Egypt:

1. **EgyptAir**:

   - The flag carrier and largest airline in Egypt, offering both domestic and international flights. EgyptAir is a member of the Star Alliance network.

2. **Nile Air**:

   - A private Egyptian airline offering domestic and regional flights across the Middle East and North Africa.

3. **Air Cairo**:

   - A low-cost carrier and subsidiary of EgyptAir, primarily serving domestic routes and some international destinations in Europe and the Middle East.

4. **FlyEgypt**:

   - A budget airline offering both charter and scheduled flights, mainly focusing on domestic routes and destinations in Europe and the Middle East.

5. **Air Arabia Egypt**:

   - A joint venture between Air Arabia and Egyptian partners, providing low-cost flights to various destinations in the Middle East and North Africa.

These airlines provide comprehensive coverage of Egypt and connect the country to various international destinations, facilitating travel and tourism.