The 10 Most Interesting Facts about Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt and one of the largest cities in Africa, has a rich history and unique culture. Here are 10 interesting facts about Cairo that you might not have known before:

1. The city’s name means “the victorious city”

The origin of the name Cairo comes from the Arabic word “al-Qahirah,” which means “the victorious.” It’s said that the name was given to the city after the Fatimid Caliph al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah successfully conquered Egypt.

2. Cairo is home to the oldest university in Africa

Founded in 970 AD, Al-Azhar University is the world’s second oldest surviving degree-granting university and the oldest university in Africa. It’s known for its Islamic studies curriculum and has produced many notable scholars and leaders in the Muslim world.

3. The Great Pyramids of Giza are located just outside Cairo

One of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt, the Great Pyramids of Giza, are located just a short distance outside Cairo. They were built over 4,500 years ago and are the only remaining wonder of the ancient world.

4. Cairo is the largest city in Africa

With a population of over 20 million people, Cairo is the largest city in Africa and one of the largest in the world. Despite its size, it’s known for its bustling street life and vibrant culture.

5. The city is home to the world-famous Egyptian Museum

Located in Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum is home to over 120,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts, including King Tutankhamun’s golden mask.

6. Cairo has inspired many famous authors and filmmakers

From Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile” to films like “The Mummy” and “Lawrence of Arabia,” Cairo has inspired many famous authors and filmmakers with its rich history, architecture, and culture.

7. The city is known for its traffic and chaotic streets

Cairo is infamous for its traffic and chaotic streets, where cars, buses, and pedestrians all compete for space. Despite this, many locals prefer to travel by foot or bicycle to avoid the congestion.

8. Cairo has a unique blend of ancient and modern architecture

From the ancient pyramids to modern skyscrapers, Cairo has a unique blend of architecture that reflects its long history and rapid development.

9. The city has a vibrant food scene

Cairo is known for its street food, with dishes like koshari, ful medames, and ta’amiya (Egyptian falafel) being popular among locals and tourists alike.

10. Cairo is a center for Islamic art and culture

With its numerous mosques, Islamic museums, and traditional bazaars, Cairo is a center for Islamic art and culture. The city’s historic Islamic architecture has influenced styles throughout the Middle East and beyond.

In conclusion, Cairo is a city with a rich history, unique culture, and vibrant atmosphere. From its ancient landmarks to its modern skyscrapers, there’s always something new to discover in this fascinating city.

The Insider’s Guide to Cairo, Egypt

Egypt’s capital and largest city, Cairo, is a fascinating mix of ancient history, bustling city life, and vibrant culture. Situated along the Nile River, Cairo offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to explore. In this insider’s guide, we will highlight some of the most exciting things to do and see in Cairo, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

Cairo is home to some of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the world. Here are some must-see attractions:

– The Great Pyramids of Giza: Undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Great Pyramids of Giza are an awe-inspiring sight. Built around 2500 BC, these pyramids served as tombs for Pharaohs and are an iconic symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization.

– The Sphinx: Located near the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx is a majestic statue of a lion’s body with a human head. It stands at 73 meters long and 20 meters tall and, along with the pyramids, is an enduring reminder of Egypt’s rich history.

– The Egyptian Museum: The Egyptian Museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt. Visitors can marvel at artefacts such as the golden mask of Tutankhamun and the mummy room, which houses the remains of pharaohs.

Dining

Egyptian cuisine is a delicious mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. Here are some great dining spots in Cairo:

– Abou El Sid: This is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Egyptian dishes such as molokhia, pigeon stuffed with rice, and grape leaves.

– Bab Al-Yemen: This restaurant offers authentic Yemeni cuisine, including traditional dishes such as salta, a stew of vegetables and meat served with bread.

– Koshary El Tahrir: A local favourite, this restaurant serves Koshary, a traditional Egyptian dish made with rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas topped with tomato sauce and caramelized onions.

Cultural Experiences

Cairo offers a range of cultural experiences that visitors can engage in to gain a deeper understanding of Egypt’s rich history and culture.

– Khan El-Khalili: This market has been around for centuries and is one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and lanes, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy a cup of tea in one of its many traditional cafes.

– Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids: The Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids is an unforgettable experience set against the backdrop of the Great Pyramids. The show uses lights and sound to bring the ancient history of the pyramids to life.

– Whirling Dervish Performance: Visitors can experience the Sufi practice of whirling at a traditional dervish performance. The show involves a series of dance routines accompanied by live music and is a unique insight into Egypt’s cultural heritage.

Local History

Egypt has a rich and storied history, and there are plenty of places to learn about it in Cairo.

– Islamic Cairo: Islamic Cairo is one of the oldest parts of the city and is home to some of the most significant Islamic architecture in the world. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Citadel of Cairo and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali.

– Coptic Cairo: Coptic Cairo is the oldest part of the city, and the area is home to many of Egypt’s oldest Christian churches and monasteries, such as the Hanging Church and the Coptic Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For visitors looking to delve deeper into Cairo’s local culture and experience something a little different, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Zabaleen (Garbage Collectors) District: Visitors can take a tour of the Zabaleen district, where they can see how garbage collectors live and work in Cairo and learn about the city’s waste management systems.

– Street Art Tour: Cairo’s streets are dotted with colorful street art, and visitors can take a tour with local artists to see some of the best examples of this vibrant art form.

– Al-Azhar Park: This park is one of Cairo’s best-kept secrets and provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and relax in one of the many landscaped gardens.

In conclusion, Cairo is a city that never disappoints, and there’s always something new to explore. From its rich history to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, Cairo offers a unique experience to visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient landmarks or discovering hidden gems, this insider’s guide will help you to make the most of your trip to Cairo.