Melting Pot

Port Said, a city of pivotal historical and cultural significance in Egypt, has a rich and diverse past that has shaped its unique identity. Here’s a comprehensive look at the history of this important port city:

1. Foundation and Early Development
   • Founded on April 25, 1859, by Sa’id of Egypt, marking the start of the Suez Canal construction.
   • Ferdinand de Lesseps initiated the construction, symbolized by the first swing of the pickaxe.
   • The city initially faced challenges like anchoring difficulties for ships, resolved by a nearby rocky outcrop.
2. Architectural Evolution
   • Early on, resources for construction were scarce; everything had to be imported.
   • Buildings were often made of wood or imported in kit form due to a lack of local stone.
   • Innovative construction techniques were used, including conglomerate concrete for jetties and the lighthouse, the latter being the only original building still standing.
3. Population Growth and Diversity
   • The population grew rapidly, from 150 laborers in 1859 to 10,000 by 1869 when the canal opened.
   • Port Said became a cosmopolitan city, housing various nationalities and religions, particularly from Mediterranean countries.
4. Geographical and Urban Development
   • Initially, the European and Arab districts were separated by a strip of sandy beach, which later developed into a unified urban space.
   • By the early 20th century, the city had expanded significantly, facilitated by the cotton export trade and railway connection to Cairo.
5. Cultural Melting Pot
   • The city was a bustling international port with a multi-national population, including Jewish merchants, Greek photographers, Italian architects, and more.
   • Multilingualism was common, with French being the lingua franca among Europeans and non-Arabs.
6. Historical Events and Changes
   • Port Said played a significant role in Egyptian history, notably during the British occupation and the Suez Crisis.
   • The city was at the forefront of major political and military events, including the nationalization of the Suez Canal by President Nasser in 1956.
7. Modern Developments
   • Post-Suez Crisis, the European community largely emigrated, and the city faced challenges during the Arab-Israeli wars.
   • After the reopening of the Suez Canal in 1975, Port Said was re-inhabited and declared a duty-free port, leading to a resurgence in its economy and population.

Port Said’s history is a tapestry of construction triumphs, multicultural coexistence, architectural marvels, and significant geopolitical events. From its inception during the Suez Canal construction to its evolution into a bustling, diverse metropolis, Port Said has remained a crucial gateway between Egypt and the world, embodying a unique blend of cultures, languages, and histories.