A Closer Look at Egypt’s Wonders
Although several tourists visit Egypt to enjoy the favourable
yearlong warm climate or to relax at a luxurious beach resort, this fascinating
country also boasts a number of remarkable natural and manmade wonders, which
should not be missed.
Attempting to visit each and every one of these monuments might
be a little bit ambitious, but for those planning Egypt holidays in the near
future, here is a little more detail on the most significant and spellbinding attractions this country has to offer.
Great Pyramid of Giza
No trip to Egypt would be complete without taking your time to
see the Great Pyramid of Giza. Over the course of its 2,500-year history, not
much has changed, but it is sure to be one of the most breath taking sites
you’ll ever behold.
Thought to been built as a tomb for Fourth Dynasty Egyptian
Pharaoh Khufu, it took around 20 years to construct. But today, the Great
Pyramid is the only remaining ancient Wonder of the World and surely this is
reason enough to pay it a visit.
Old Cairo
In spite of its proximity to the Great Pyramid, Cairo was
founded in the 10th Century as a Muslim city. Although some tourists won’t like
the hustle and bustle of Egypt’s capital, Old Cairo should be an essential item
on any itinerary.
Here you will find the Mohamed Ali Mosque, one of the largest of
the old Muslim world and a stunning piece of architecture. Along with taking a
trip to the Citadel, which affords views out to the Giza plateau, the souqs
(markets) are also highly recommended if you want to sample a little local
flavour.
Temple of Luxor
Located on the east bank of the Nile, this ancient temple
complex was dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun-Re, his wife Mut, and his son
Khonsu. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Egyptians as you walk down a path
lined with sphinxes, which once led the way to Ipet Sut in the modern city of
Al-Karnak.
The Temple of Luxor is perhaps best known for its astonishing
obelisk, which is still intact at the entrance. While here, you may want to
visit the Temple of Karnak as well, which is by far the biggest temple complex
in Egypt.
Abu Simbel
This archaeological site comprising of two temples was created
during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC. It took around
20 years to build and is widely considered to be one of the grandest in Egypt.
However, arguably the most extraordinary thing about Abu Simbel is that the
entire complex was moved in the 1960s to protect it against the rising water of
the Aswan High Dam.
You may not be able to experience and enjoy all of Egypt’s
wonders, but you’ll be rewarded with some long-lasting memories for the ones
you do see, as every sight reflects the majesty of this ancient nation.
Labels: Egypt, famous places, travel