Egypt is one of the most interesting countries on the African continent. Egypt is home to many great secrets and some of the best history of all ancient, prehistoric civilizations. Only by visiting, can you immerse yourself in the culture, see the history before your eyes, and take part in some of the best places to visit, including museums and restaurants.
Egyptian Culture
Ancient Egyptian culture was overflowing with different religions, government structures, writing, and art. Religion and government were intertwined and led by the pharaoh. Writing was one of the most important components of ancient Egyptian culture, with scribes being the only people who were allowed to read and write. Because of the scribes, we have beautiful hieroglyphs explaining so much about the vibrant and diverse cultures of each historical period throughout Egypt.
Even today, Egyptian culture remains just as thriving and beautiful. You can see people in traditional garb moving to and from their fields throughout the day. In more urban areas you feel as though you have fallen into a book with the art, literature, and cuisine throughout Egyptian towns.
Egyptian History
Egypt has a long and rich history spanning over thirty centuries. Egyptian history starts with:
- The early, pre-dynastic unification
- The Old Kingdom, during which time the pyramids were built
- The first intermediate period
- The Middle Kingdom
- Second intermediate period
- The New Kingdom
- Third intermediate period
- Concluding with the conquest of Alexander the Great all the way through present day
Fame and Cinema
One of the most curious things about Egypt is its relationship to cinema. Egyptian Cinema dates back to the 19th century when short films were shown in Alexandria, and Egypt became a pioneer of Cinema. In fact, in 1896, Cairo would be the first place to hold cinematographic projections over a swimming pool which paved the way for smaller cinema halls throughout Cairo and later through Alexandria, where people could come and watch movies. Egyptian theaters were divided into three different sections for the different social structures throughout Egyptian Society.
New technologies allowed for scenes to be filmed on location throughout Egypt, combined with new sound effects such that the Egyptian film industry provided some of the first movies that gave the rest of the world a real sense for the culture and rich history, not to mention the landscape of Egypt.
When in Egypt...
There are so many great places to see in Egypt, no matter what you like. Dazzling temples and tombs, historic Treasures, the beautiful red sea or Nile River, or beautiful towns like Cairo.
If you love history, the Pyramids of Giza are the only remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Valley Of Kings is where you can see Karnak Temple and the memorial Temple of Hatshepsut. Luxor is a thriving city with a vibrant and modern culture. Museums, Cliffside, and temples and tombs make for a spectacular visit.
When looking for Egyptian entertainment places, never overlook the option of cruising down the Nile. Multi-day cruises along the Nile can give you access to views and historical sites that you wouldn't be able to see on foot. What's more, there are many chances for you to sail down the Nile in a felucca, the traditional Egyptian wooden boat with a canvas sail.
You can head over to Aswan, check out Abu Simbel, and see the Great Temple of Ramses. Head to South Sinai, where you will find luxury hotels and international cuisine while you relax on the beach. Don't forget to schedule a day trip to Saqqara, where you can check out the Old Kingdom step pyramids.
For water entertainment, you can dive into the Red Sea, world-renowned for the vast sea life, colorful fish, soft coral, sharks, turtles, and dolphins.
To get a better feel of the beauty behind Islam, you can go to Islamic Cairo and check out the madrasas, mosques, and ancient Islamic monuments throughout the city. Take some time to shop at the tiny workshops of Artisans selling perfumes, ceramics, tiles, and spices in Khan el-Khalili.
Overall, Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries throughout the Arab world. Rich in profound history, Egypt has continued to inspire the world with its top entertainment places, historical museums, amazing food, and more. There is so much to see throughout Egypt, no matter what you love most.