Cairo
“Mother of the World” as quoted in the “Arabian Nights”, is the largest city in Africa and the Arab World today. The present-day city was first erected in 969 AD. Today, it has become a blend of paradoxes; the old and the new, the east and the west, the swing of busy days and tranquil nights. A rare pot pourri of cultures, it flings at passers-by Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic and Islamic relics and monuments at every step. Today, we have conjured a mixture of the most intriguing of those sites to present them to you.
Egyptian Museum of Antiquities:
With over 100,000 relics in 107 halls, the Egyptian Museum offers days of exploration. Inside are treasures from ancient Egypt, including priceless finery taken from ancient royal tombs and one of the museum’s masterpieces, the statue of Chephren. The most popular attraction is the Tutankhamun Gallery where exquisite treasures from the tomb of the Boy King are displayed, including the famous solid gold death mask. Another top attraction is the Royal Mummy Room containing mummies of some of the most powerful Pharaohs in Egypt dating from the 18th to the 20th Dynasty.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar:
One of the most interesting bazaars, known for its unusual, typically oriental souvenirs and handmade crafts. The medieval atmosphere of this traditional market together with the labyrinth layout of the streets, give visitors a lot of pleasure and a glimpse into what medieval markets once were like. Cafes, restaurants, shops and the number of vendors constitute a dynamic panorama of the place.
Citadel of Salah El Din:
One of Cairo's major attractions. The massive Citadel complex dominates the city skyline. Built on a limestone spur by Salah El Din (Saladin) in the 12th Century, most of its features are associated with Mohammed Ali, the early 19th-century leader who freed Egypt from the Mamluk yoke. The Citadel offers a beautiful panoramic view of Islamic Cairo in a castle setting rich in history.