A superlative sightseeing tour through Cairo
If you think of Cairo, the nearby Pyramids of Giza are probably the first things that come to mind. Needless to say, these are an absolute highlight for all visitors to Egypt, especially since the new Grand Egyptian Museum opened there. But there is much more to discover in Cairo itself.
A place of worship of record-breaking proportions
It is Cairo’s largest mosque – and the oldest: the Mosque of Ibn Tulun extends over an area of 26,318 m². It was built in the 9th century by Ahmad ibn Tulun, the governor at the time. The place of worship is still preserved in its original form, including the minaret. A spiral-shaped staircase on the outer wall of this minaret leads to a round balcony that offers spectacular views of the city. If the site seems familiar to you, several scenes from the James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me” (1977) were filmed at the Mosque and adjacent Gayer-Anderson Museum.
True Oriental flair
Where can you get to know traditional Cairo? Many people would agree that Old Cairo is the place to go. In addition to the famous mosques, the city walls and the three massive city gates, the narrow, winding alleyways invite you to explore. Experience the hustle and bustle as you stroll through the bazaars, admire Islamic architecture with its pointed arches, domes, mosaics and geometric patterns on the approximately 600 historic buildings – or simply go with the flow and enjoy the oriental flair. All this is possible in the old town of Cairo, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Imposing fortress
It thwarted many a crusader: at the time of the Crusades, the Citadel of Saladin served as a fortress. Later, sultans and pashas resided there. Today, the huge complex with its palaces, museums and mosques is one of the city’s most important sights. Located on a plateau in the south-east of the city, it houses one of Cairo’s most beautiful places of worship: the Muhammad Ali Mosque. It is clad with alabaster and marble both inside and out, hence the nickname “Alabaster Mosque”.
The art of haggling
This souk is regarded as the largest market in Africa: the Chan-el-Chalili Bazaar has been a place for trading, haggling, buying – and a lot of smoking (usually water pipes) – ever since the 14th century. The narrow alleyways smell of the spices sold alongside the traditional crafts, antiques, jewellery, fabrics and souvenirs in the shops and colourful stalls. If you’d like to take a short break from all the hustle and bustle, you can relax in one of the many small cafés and try an Arabian coffee flavoured with local spices.
Cradle of Christianity
The Coptic Quarter in central Cairo is older than the Islamic city centre and is considered the nucleus of the city. Even today, many Christian Copts still live in the area of the fortress city Babylon built by the Romans. The cemetery, with its chapels and house-like graves, and the numerous churches attract visitors. The Church of the Virgin Mary, known as the “Hanging Church” is particularly impressive, with its nave built on top of a water gate. The Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church is a prime example of Coptic architecture. Built in the 4th century, it is the oldest church in Egypt.
A paradise for scholars
As early as the 10th century, the Al-Azhar Mosque, Cairo’s second oldest place of worship, was converted into a university. Today, it is not only considered a symbol of Islamic Egypt, but also one of the most important Islamic-theological universities in the world. Marvel at the enormous courtyard in white marble and the many details of Islamic architectural history, such as the five minarets from different eras or the numerous mosaic decorations in the prayer niches. Not to be missed: the “Barber’s Gate”. The entrance gate was given this name because students had their hair cut when they entered the Mosque.
Sky-high views
Looking for a little modernity for a change? Then head to Cairo Tower. On the island of Gezira in the middle of the city, the 187-metre-high television tower built in 1961 is designed in the shape of a lotus plant. The 160-metre-high observation deck offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city – and the telescopes even allow you to see the Pyramids of Giza in the distance. After a breather in the rotating restaurant, you can head back down into the exciting hustle and bustle of the city.
Green lungs of the city
In the middle of Cairo, the splendid Al-Azhar Park awaits those who long for fresh air and want to relax in a green space. Inspired by historic Islamic gardens, the park covers around 30 hectares. With manicured lawns, fountains and palm trees providing shade, it’s a popular place for families to picnic, young couples to meet and amateur photographers. Very romantic: a sunset visit. One more thing: although it has the same name as the Al-Azhar Mosque, the park is a half-hour walk away and has an entry charge.
Go with the flow on the Nile
A highlight of any visit to Cairo is a boat trip on the Nile. The majestic river is the longest in the world and was the lifeline of ancient Egypt. A great way to experience it is on a dinner cruise offered by various tour operators. The sunset over Cairo is fabulous from the water. This experience is rounded off with a folklore and belly dance show – after all, Egypt is considered the cradle of Oriental belly dance.
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