Melting Pot

The History of Port Said

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.

Created On March 25, 2020

Updated On January 26, 2024

PORT SAID Travel Guide
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