"The Mother of the Earth"
Cairo is not only Egypt's capital and Africa's largest metropolis, but also the political, economic, and cultural center of the Middle East. A visit to this melting pot reveals fascinating contrasts: the burgeoning, vibrant city on the one hand, and the millennia-old history and its architectural treasures on the other.
When you cross the Nile in Cairo, you move from one metropolis to the next, because on the west bank lies Giza with its pyramids – the only remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They have been Egypt's symbol for millennia. Even before the pyramids were built, there stood the guardian of the dead: the famous Sphinx. This colossal monument depicts a reclining lion with a royal head and mane.
Another highlight of your stay in Cairo is a visit to the Egyptian Museum. The tour through the museum proceeds clockwise from the Old Kingdom to the Late Period. The undisputed highlight is the complete collection of Tutankhamun's tomb treasures, including his richly decorated mask and his gilded sarcophagus.
The imposing Citadel stands in Saladin Square. Cairo's most outstanding landmark – the Alabaster Mosque – is enthroned there.
Even a short visit to the Al-Hussein Mosque is worthwhile. Important note: It is not permitted to enter the mosque wearing clothing with bare shoulders or uncovered knees.
The most important Islamic mosque, directly opposite the bazaar, is the Al-Azhar Mosque – the Flourishing One. It is not only a mosque, but also a university over 1.000 years old, one of the most important and oldest Islamic institutions of higher learning in the world.
From the El Burg tower in Cairo, you can enjoy the best panoramic view as well as a fantastic view over Cairo all the way to the pyramids!
