Cairo - The City of a Thousand Minarets

The official name of the city of Cairo is al-Qāhirah. It is the administrative capital of Egypt and is also one of the largest urbanised areas in the entire world. It has plenty to feel, see and learn.

Geographically, the town is located in the northern part of Egypt, west of the Gulf of Suez and Suez Canal. It is along the river Nile, beginning immediately after the waters leave the desert-bound valley and enter the delta region. The city of Cairo itself takes only a small area directly next to the river bank and two islands, measuring 214 square kilometres.

Four of the most interesting views and monuments of the city are:
The Pyramids of Giza are one of the worlds’ wonders. They are origin of myth, legends and historical facts. They are muse for the artist and poet and a resting place for a number of the most prominent and intelligent people the world has ever seen. Papyrus Institute at Giza is located near the Pyramids themselves; here you can see how the ancient paper has been made.

The Saladin Citadel of Cairo is one of the most visited and adored locations in the city. It is a home to the Al-Gawhara Palace, the National Military Museum and the Police Museum. Its architecture is of international value.

The Hanging Church is also a venue which attracts many. We have to mention the incredible basilica-styled architecture and the fact that it is the most valued and famous Christian Church in Egypt. The reason for its name is that it is located in the Roman Fortress in the old part of the city.

The Giza Zoo is found Cairo’s centre and is the most densely populated in the entire world, hosting endangered and specific floral and faunal species. On March 1,1891, the Zoo at Giza was opened for the public. It is famous not only for being a Zoo, but for being one of the most beautiful masterpieces internationally. Mosaics, marble, streams, hills and beautiful bridges are also present. There is also a museum, which was built in 1906.

If you plan on visiting this marvellous place, please be sure to have in mind this: look around and check if there is a “no cameras” sticker. If you see one, leave the camera outside with your baggage, otherwise you risk being fined. If you plan on bringing your camera with you – you should know that it will need a separate ticket for all individual locations. Another important thing is that you should at all costs avoid contact with the local tap water. It is extremely over chlorinated and may cause very bad consequences for the health.