Cairo is the large capital city of Egypt, located along the Nile River. It is home to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, which displays many ancient treasures, including mummies and objects from King Tutankhamun. Near the city are the famous pyramids and the Great Sphinx, dating back to the 26th century BC. The Cairo Tower, at 187 meters tall, offers great views of the city, and the Citadel Fortress, with the Muhammad Ali Mosque, overlooks Cairo. The Islamic district has narrow streets with historical buildings like the 10th-century Al-Azhar Mosque, the Bab Zuweila gate, and the lively Khan el-Khalili market. Coptic Cairo features the Roman-era Fortress of Babylon, the Hanging Church, and the Coptic Museum, showcasing Christian Egypt’s history. The city’s social life is vibrant, especially in its many coffeehouses, which stay busy late into the night.
Places to visit in Cairo
Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It has over 120,000 items on display, including papyri, coins, statues, and coffins, along with many treasures from the Valley of the Kings.
Pyramid of Djoser
The Pyramid of Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid, is located in the Saqqara necropolis. Built around the 27th century BC, it is the oldest large stone structure in Egypt and was created for Pharaoh Djoser’s burial. The pyramid is part of a grand mortuary complex.
Manial Palace
Manial Palace, located on Rhoda Island in Cairo, was the home of an Egyptian royal prince. It is now a museum that preserves the history and lifestyle of the late 19th- and early 20th-century Egyptian royalty.
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo is one of the most important museums in the world, showcasing rare artifacts like woodwork, metal, ceramics, and textiles. It also has ancient manuscripts of the Qur’an, including some written in silver ink.
Giza Pyramid
The Great Pyramid of Giza, built for Pharaoh Khufu, is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only one still mostly intact. It was completed around 2560 BC and served as Khufu’s tomb.
Khan el-Khalili
Khan el-Khalili is a famous market in the heart of Cairo. It dates back to the Mamluk era and has become a popular spot for tourists. The market is home to many workshops where Egyptian artisans make traditional crafts.
Saladin Citadel
The Citadel of Cairo, built by Salah ad-Din, is a historical fortification that served as the seat of Egypt’s rulers for nearly 700 years. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with mosques, museums, and beautiful views of Cairo.
Tahrir Square
Tahrir Square is a major public square in downtown Cairo, known for its central location and traffic circle. It has a statue of Umar Makram, a hero who fought against Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt.
Museum of Islamic Ceramics
The Museum of Islamic Ceramics in Cairo displays a unique collection of ceramics from Islamic countries. The museum’s items date from the 2nd century Hijra to the 12th century, showcasing various decoration techniques.
Islamic Cairo
Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historic center of Cairo, known for its mosques, schools, and baths. It flourished in the 14th century and remains an important example of medieval Islamic architecture and culture.
Best time to visit Cairo
The best time to visit Cairo is during the months of March to April and October to November. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historic sites. The temperatures are comfortable, avoiding the extreme heat of summer. These months also offer fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience. It’s a great time to enjoy the outdoor attractions, such as the pyramids and local markets.
