Cairo Travel Guide

Locally referred to as Maṣr, mirroring the Egyptian Arabic term for Egypt, Cairo’s name underscores its integral role within the nation. Its official name, al-Qāhirah, translates to “the Vanquisher” or “the Conqueror,” a nod to the celestial alignment of Mars, known as “the Conquering Star,” during the city’s foundation. This name also celebrates the arrival of Fatimid Caliph Al-Mu’izz, who established Cairo as a capital upon his arrival from Mahdia. The ancient city of Heliopolis, now the suburb of Ain Shams (“Eye of the Sun”), marks another historical layer of this multifaceted city.

Cairo’s skyline, dotted with the “thousand minarets,” offers a panorama of attractions captivating visitors worldwide. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, the treasure trove of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, the architectural marvel of the Step Pyramids at Saqqara, and the historic Citadel of Saladin. The city’s religious heritage is magnificently displayed at the Mosque of Mohamed Ali and the Mosque of Amr Ibn El Aas, the first mosque built in Africa.

The vibrant tapestry of Cairo’s history is further adorned with Coptic Cairo, home to iconic Coptic landmarks like the famous Hanging Church and the Coptic Museum. For a taste of Cairo’s bustling market life, Khan El Khalili stands as the most renowned tourist market globally.

Cairo is also the cradle of the oldest and most influential film and music industries in the Arab world, alongside hosting Al-Azhar University, the world’s second-oldest institution of higher learning. With many international media and organizations setting their regional headquarters here, and the Arab League calling Cairo home for much of its history, the city is a dynamic nexus of global and regional influence.

Explore Cairo, where history and modernity converge, offering a journey through time and an embrace of the new. This city is not just a destination but a vibrant chapter in the story of civilization.