Traveda Copyright © 2019
Traveda
Situated by the Nile, Egypt’s capital Cairo holds some of the country’s best historical and contemporary offerings, lively streets that never sleep, and diverse neighborhoods. The dynamic metropolis features numerous heritage sites that imbue the city with a distinct charm and offer a glimpse into its Islamic and Coptic histories. These include the renowned Al-Muiz street, Amr Ibn Al As Mosque, the Hanging Church, and the Saint Samaan Monastery.
From local to international dining, Cairo’s variety of restaurants and cuisines cater to every taste, with prominent neighborhoods like Zamalek, Downtown Cairo, and Maadi housing many favorites. Those who love dining with a view can enjoy their meals on a boat restaurant, followed by an exhilarating felucca ride for a wonderful view of the sunset. Cairo’s nightlife is also well-known for its diversity, creating a fusion of different genres and styles. Local and international live music concerts, from jazz to electronic, are regularly hosted at venues around the city, as well as at its cultural landmark, the Cairo Opera House.
All in all, Cairo’s culturally rich landscape makes for a must-visit destination.
FEATURED ARTICLE
The Gates of Cairo were gates at portals in the city walls of medieval Islamic Cairo, within the present day city of Cairo, Egypt. The city of Cairo was founded in 969 CE by Gawhar al-Siqilli, as the new royal city of the Fatimid Caliphate, with a defensive wall. In 1092, the Fatimids built a second wall around Cairo. The double walled city had a significant number of fortified gates at the portals protecting both the inner and outer city areas. The primary purpose was defense, but they also differentiated the various social and economic classes' districts and movements. Many gate surrounds were carved artistic elements and embellished decorative features, representing the ruler's and city's victories, power, faith, and influence. The gates were influenced by the designs of gates that the Fatimids had built in Tunisia, most prominently the main gate to Mahdia.