Cairo - the city that never sleeps. Sitting on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is a witness to Egypt‘s ancient history and conveys a never-ending energy. In case you have a brief stopover in Cairo, here is a guide to what you shouldn´t miss.
The Pyramids and the Great Sphinx in Giza are absolutely must sees. Giza is a city near Cairo, and thanks to the increased number of tourists heading to the Giza necropolis, getting there is quite easy. Giza counts three famous pyramids, three smaller tombs, and the Great Sphinx. To enter the Great Pyramid, get ready for a steep descent and humidity that intensifies with every step down.
The Pyramids and the Great Sphinx in Giza / Photo: Martina Advaney
Great Sphinx / Photo: Martina Advaney
Tired with the heat / Photo: Martina Advaney
Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church (Hanging Church) is one of the oldest churches in Egypt, dating back to the 3rd Century AD. A site astride the gate of the Roman Fortress earned the church the name Hanging Church. Its roof is constructed of wood and is shaped like Noah´s ark.
Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church / Photo: Martina Advaney
Along to Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church / Photo: Martina Advaney
Along to Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church / Photo: Martina Advaney
The Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha (Alabaster Mosque) is situated in the Citadel of Cairo. It was built between 1830 and 1848 and was the largest mosque built in that era. The alabaster panels which gave the mosque its other name, however, are no longer to be seen, having been replaced with wood imitating alabaster.
The Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha / Photo: Martina Advaney
The courtyard (sahn) of the mosque / Photo: Martina Advaney
The interior of the Alabaster Mosque / Photo: Martina Advaney
The Egyptian Museum dates back to the 19th century. The museum occupies two floors and displays a large collection from ancient times which has been brought from various Pharaonic tombs and also includes a number of mummies, primarily from the New Kingdom.
The Egyptian Museum / Photo: Shutterstock
Interior of The Egyptian Museum / Photo: Shutterstock
A visit to one of the perfume shops is a relaxing activity. You can pick up perfumes and oils and get your purchases packed into beautiful perfume flakons. A complimentary mint tea will make shopping more comfortable in the heat of the city, while you are browsing and choosing your perfumes.
In the perfume shop / Photo: Shutterstock
A Boat Ride on the Nile is the best way to end your tour. While being served lunch or dinner, there is an accompanying program (tanoura dance or belly dance) and of course the view is especially magnificent at night.
A Boat Ride on the Nile / Photo: Martina Advaney
Tanoura dance / Photo: Martina Advaney
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