Culture and History Travel Tour to Tunisia

The list of interesting places in Tunisia would do justice to a country twice as big. From the villages of the stone age, near the oasis of Kebili up scenarios where they filmed part of Star Wars (in Matmata), its landscapes, lush or moles, have seen more action than all the countries of Africa together. After traveling a few days, anyone would agree to let the imagination in the famous Roman ruins of Carthage and El-Jem is almost as immersed in the Aeneid of Virgil and have a drink with Dido, while a day holgazanea the beaches on the north coast were asking what Hannibal was looking away from Tunisia.
Whether the cultural mix of French and Arabic capital or vast extension of the Sahara, which is impressive in Tunisia. After all, three thousand years of history to convince any visitor.

Tunisia best time

In January and February, a period of cold weather and rainy, the hotel prices down. During the warm season from June to August, prices of hotels are increasing, a shortage of rental cars and markets and museums are packed with tourists.

Tunisia Mean festivals and Holidays

The Islamic calendar (which begins with AH, ie, the flight of Mohammed to Medina) is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian. Over the next few years Ras as-Sana, the celebration of Islamic New Year falls in April. Moreover, Moul an-Nabi celebrates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad around June or July. The festivities include parades in the streets, feasts, drummers and special sweets. Ramadan, commemorating the month when it was revealed to Muhammad the Koran, is held during the ninth month of Islamic calendar (now in December). In deference, the faithful do not eat or drink until after the sun. At the end of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) the fasting breaks with visits to friends, feasts and gifts.
Eid al-Adha is the time of the pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim must undertake at least once in life. The streets are decorated with colored lights and children wear their best clothes.                                                                                                          As a secular festivals, July and August are the months to remember. The main event of the calendar of Tunisia is the Carthage International Festival, which offers performances of music, theater and dance at the restored Roman theater in Carthage. The International Festival of Symphonic Music El Jem is held each July. Festival of classical theater Dougga happens in July and August. After the summer heat, it's International Film Festival of Carthage (the films focusing on African and Middle East), which takes place in October of odd years.


Secular holidays

January 1 - New Year
March 20 - Independence Day
March 21 - Youth Day
April 9 - Day of the Martyrs
May 1 - Labor Day
July 25 - Republic Day
August 3 - Fiesta official
August 13 - Women's Day
October 15 - Day of Evacuation
November 7 - Anniversary of access to the chairmanship of Ben Ali

Tunisia Most Attraction Places to Travel

Tunis  ( medina )

Compared to the great metropolis of the world, Tunisia is not too impressed. The center is compact and easy to navigate, it is essential for travelers located in the medina and the Ville Nouvelle.
The medina is the historical and cultural heart of modern Tunisia and a place to get an idea of life in the city. Built during the seventh century, it lost its privilege as the center of the capital when the French took over and built their new city by the end of the nineteenth century. One of the oldest attractions of the medina, Zitoun mosque was rebuilt in the ninth century on the original structure of the seventh century. Its builders recycled two hundred columns of the Roman ruins of Carthage for the central prayer hall. Non-Muslims can come dressed in modesty into the yard. The smell will help translate the name of the nearby Souq el-Attarine, the perfumer souk, where shops were fed with aromatic oils and spices. West, the Mosque of Youssef Dey was the first Ottoman-style was built in the City (1616). In nearby Souq el-Berka Muslim corsairs sold slaves.

Also in the medina, the Tourbet el-Bey is a huge mausoleum that houses the remains of many Beysen, princesses, pastors and counselors husseinitas, the guard is an enthusiastic guide. Not far from the Dar Ben Abdallah Museum houses the Center for Popular Arts and Traditions, where the exhibits seem mediocre in contrast to the majestic backdrop of the building. The area is Dar el-Haddad, one of the oldest houses. The Medina was declared Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO in 1981.

The streets of the ville nouvelle are flanked by buildings full of imprint French wrought iron gates and window slats, elements that give it a European air, accentuated by the terraces of cafes and bakeries. After admiring the colonial architecture, it is worth visiting the Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul, which presents an extraordinarily bizarre amalgam of architectural styles (Gothic, Byzantine and North Africa).

After about 4 miles west of downtown lies the essential Bardo Museum, in the former Bardo Palace, official residence of Beysen husseinitas. In the interior, the collection is divided into sections covering different periods: the Carthaginian, Roman, early times of Christianity and the Arab-Islamic. The Roman part contains one of the best exhibits of mosaics and statues from around the world. You can reach the museum by taxi or tram.

Carthage

Despite the fascinating history of Carthage and the dominant position it held in the ancient world, the Romans were such demolition work that remains today are somewhat disappointing. Almost all that remains is of Roman origin; any other Punic. There are six areas of interest, and most annoying for the visitor is that they are scattered and far apart from each other. To overcome this problem, you can take line TGM (light rail), which crosses the area, but cautions that, even so, one must walk a lot.

The best starting point is Byrsa hill, which dominates the area and provides an overview from the top. At his feet is the St Louis Cathedral, visible from several miles around. It is a staggering proportions, which was erected by the French in 1890 and dedicated to the king-saint of the thirteenth century, who died on the shores of Carthage, in 1270, during the Eighth Crusade. Although it was deconsecrated and closed for years, has now been restored and opened to the public. The National Museum is the large white building located at the rear of the cathedral, and its exhibits, refurbished, deserve a look. The Punic displays, on the top floor is highly recommended.

The Roman amphitheater in West Byrsa, 15 minutes walk from the museum, was one of the largest in the Empire, but today it is little of its luster. Most of its stones were removed for other construction projects in the following centuries. The set of huge tanks located northeast of the amphitheater was the main water supply for Carthage during the Roman era, is now in ruins and the difficulties of access, among spiny prickly pear, make little effort deserves.

The Baths of Antoninus is located to the south, in the seafront, and primarily impressed by its size and location. The Magon Quarter is another archaeological site near the sea, a few meters south of the baths. Recent excavations have revealed an interesting residential area.

Tofet the sanctuary has attracted considerable interest since it was first excavated in 1921. The Tofet was a place of sacrifice with a cemetery annex, where the children of Carthaginian nobles were killed and burnt to appease the deities Baal Hammon and Tanit. He is currently little more than a plot full of weeds with a few graves.

Sidi Bou Saïd

Sidi Bou Saïd is a whitewash village situated high on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Tunisia, about 10 km northeast of the capital. It is a delightful place to stroll through its narrow cobbled streets. Its glittering walls are fitted with bars on every window, decorated and painted in an intense blue color, and eye-arched entrances that provide access to patios sprinkled with geraniums and bougainvillea. No one would blame you think you have encountered a tiny Greek island.

The center of activity of the population is its main square, Place Sidi Bou Saïd, lined with cafes, put candy and souvenir shops. The lighthouse, which overlooks the village, stands on the site of a fort of the IX century. There is a small beach nearby and relatively empty.

Cap Bon Peninsula

This fertile peninsula penetrating into the Mediterranean from the north-eastern Tunisia. Geologists speculate the possibility that in the past came to Sicily, forming a land link with Europe is plunged into the sea 30,000 years ago. At present, Cap Bon (especially the beaches of the Southeast around Hammamet and Nabeul) is the leading destination Tunisian tourists arriving with package holidays.

In a summer stroll through the streets of Hammamet is likely to discover ten tourists each neighbor of the people, and the pace never loose, except in the winter and for a short time. Its location on the northern edge of the Gulf of Hammamet is his great asset, and its old medina, which dominates a large area of sandy beach is undoubtedly one of the attractions. It is also a city filled with life, full of nightclubs, restaurants and colorful shops. Everything a visitor could want, except isolation.

The biggest difference between your neighbor and Hammamet, Nabeul, is that the latter has a variety of accommodations, including camping area better organized in the country. The market in Nabeul Friday is one of the liveliest in the country, even though not having an excess of bargains or items of quality.

When it comes to Kelibia have been behind the most popular tourist destinations in Tunisia. In its place will be a tiny town that survives mainly on its fishing fleet, with a few modest and resorts, fabulous beaches and a strong protection of the sixth century which dominates the port.

Halfway between El-Haouaria Kelibia and is Kerkouane town of Carthage, a city founded in the sixth century BC finally destroyed by Roman forces. Was excavated in 1962 and houses a museum these findings, as the princess of Kerkouane, the lid of a wooden coffin carved in the shape of the goddess Astarte.

The small town of El-Haouaria is located below the mountainous tip of Cap Bon. It is a passage with several quiet beaches acceptable, especially in Ras El-Drek, but its main attraction are the caves in the Roman coast, 3 km west of the city. Much of the stone that was used to lift Carthage was extracted from this remarkable complex of yellow sandstone caves. The quarrymen discovered that the quality of the stone was much better at the base of the cliffs on the surface, so it opted to open tunnels. After nearly a thousand years removing sandstone caves are the result today.

Dougga

The Roman ruins of Dougga, 105 km southwest of the capital, is considered the most spectacular and best preserved of the country. Occupy a prominent position on the edge of the mountains of Tebersouk, overlooking the fertile valley of Oued Kalle, where wheat is grown. The site was occupied until the early 1950, when residents were evacuated to help preserve the ruins.

In Dougga there'sa lot to see and it is worth hiring a licensed guide. The first monument to be seen is the theater, with capacity for 3,500 spectators on the hillside and built in the year 188 AD by one of the wealthy inhabitants of the city. Has been rebuilt and is ideal for light classical theater Dougga Festival which is held in July and August. A little beyond, a trail leads to the temple of Saturn, erected on the site of an earlier temple dedicated to Baal Hammon. Southwest of the theater, a winding road leads to the square of the Winds, where the surface is prepared as an enormous bar and lists the names of twelve winds. Another temple along the plaza to the north, while the market and the capitol are located south and west, respectively.

The Capitol is one of the most remarkable monuments of the country, which was erected in the year 166 AD Six striated columns supporting the portico, which is about eight meters above the ground. The frieze has eroded a little sculpture, rare indeed, which shows the emperor Pius Antonio between the claws of an eagle. Inside there was an enormous statue of Jupiter, whose fragments are now in the Bardo Museum in Tunisia. Near the house of Dionysus and Odysseus was once a sumptuous residence in it was a mosaic showing the last mesmerized by the sirens (now part of the Bardo Museum in the capital).

El-Jem

There are few sights more dazzling that El Jem, the well-preserved ancient coliseum and almost as large as that of Rome, which dwarfs the buildings of the modern city. Built on a plateau halfway between Sousse and Sfax, about 210 km south of the capital, El-Jem can see from several miles around, dominating the entire area.

The coliseum, built between the years 230 and 238 AD, has been used as a defensive position on many occasions. Suffered severe damage in the seventeenth century, when the troops of Mohammed Bey opened a hole in the Western Wall to the departure of members of the local tribesmen who had rebelled against the taxes required. The gap widened further during a rebellion in 1850, but, fortunately, it is now attaches great importance to conservation and has been declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco.

With a capacity for 30,000 people (a figure that exceeds that of the city's population), is one of the most impressive Roman monuments in Africa. Still be higher up the bleachers and watch the sand, or explore the two long subterranean passages that once housed gladiators, animals and unhappy convicts.
Tozeur

Tozeur is one of the most popular stops for passengers, and has been since the period capsiense (around 8000 BC). Its main attractions lie in a labyrinthine old town, an interesting museum and a vast palm grove on the northern tip of Chott el-Jerid. At about 435 km southwest of the capital, the road becomes exciting: the road crosses a Kebili Chott (dried salt lake) for a flyover.

The evocative old part of town, Ouled el-Hadef, was built in the fourteenth century AD to house the El-Hadef clan, which was enriched by the trade caravans. It is a maze of narrow alleys and tiny squares covered and has gained fame for his methods of real brick. There is a small but notable archaeological museum is worth a visit.

In addition to the Bardo Museum in the capital, Dar Charait Museum is another great museum in the country by the worth of the diverted route. It displays a large collection of pottery and antiques. Has an art gallery and rooms made up as replicas of Tunisian life, past and present. Include room for the last bey, a palace decorated, the baths (hammam) and a Bedouin tent. The guards of the museum, dressed as servants of the Bey, they collaborate with their appearance into the environment.

The palm groves of Tozeur is the second largest of Tunisia, with nearly two hundred thousand palm trees on an area of 10 km ². It is a classic example of oasis agriculture on the terrace and is stocked by over two hundred springs, which produce about sixty million gallons of water a day. The best way to explore the palm grove is on foot or by bicycle, which can be rented at the entrance.
Susa

Sousse is the third most important city in Tunisia as well as a prominent port. Is also the most popular tourist destination. The long beach that extends north from the town to the tourist enclave of Port el-Kantaoui is its main hook. However, Susa is not limited to the row of hotels that surround its shores.

The old medina contains quite a number of monuments. The walls are impressive, with an area of 2.25 km and a height of 8 m, fortified with a series of solid square turrets. The Ribat, a strong small square, was built at the end of the eighth century AD Presents a vantage point round which allows uploading and is an excellent viewpoint over the city. The austere Great Mosque, with its towers and crenellated walls, more reminiscent of a strong to a mosque. The Museum of Susa, which occupies the citadel (Kasbah) in the southwest corner of the medina, shows several of the most beautiful mosaics in the country.
Matmata

Anywhere else in Tunisia organized tourism is so excessive as in the village of Matmata, 400 km south of the capital, on the southeast coast. The houses of this village troglodyte underground have proved an irresistible claim for tourists or travelers who access the site in vehicles after a safari through the desert.

It is not difficult to understand why coaches do not let go of. The passage follows an almost surreal air, with both a lunar environment. Surely that is why it was chosen as a filming location for scenes from the movie Desert Wars. Berbers built houses on the ground over a thousand years ago to escape the extreme heat of summer. All the houses are virtually identical, with a courtyard excavated to about 6 m deep in tunnels and rooms open on the sides. The larger with two or three yards and are accessed via a narrow staircase from the courtyard to the surface.

If you want to see Matmata self (there are always guides available), it is appropriate to visit the hotels. It should arrive in late afternoon, after the tourist buses have departed, and a walk beyond the hotel Ksar Amazigh. From there, there are good views of Matmata, which is behind, and the valley of Oued Barrak, to the north. In return, we must quench the thirst in the Sidi Driss hotel bar (the famous cantina in Star Wars) and I look to the hotel and the hotel Berbere Marhala. This will have seen the most notable of the city.

Bizerta

The port city of Bizerte, 65km north of the capital, is the largest in the north of Tunisia. Yet undiscovered by mass tourism, is one of the reasons why it deserves a visit. Acceptable has beaches close to town, but its attraction lies in the architecture of the neighborhood's old port.

The huge citadel (Kasbah) is the most imposing structure of the old town with its massive walls descollando on the northern entrance to the port. Was originally a Byzantine strong built in the sixth century AD, the present was erected by the Ottomans in the seventeenth century. The strong small (ksibah) is the southern bastion of defense of the port, was built by the Byzantines and changed over the centuries. At present has its interesting Oceanographic Museum.

Bouchoucha Place, which is really more a street than a square, is located in the heart of the Ottoman city, flanked by the Old Port to the east and west Medina. The area offers lively fish markets, the Grand Mosque, built in 1652 with a striking octagonal minaret, and the source of Youssef Dey, inlaid with beautiful, dates from 1642. The so-called strong Spanish dominates the city from the hill that comes north of the medina, is actually Turkish, and was built in the year 1570 AD
Ichkeul National Park

Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this national park, 30 km southwest of Bizerte is a sanctuary for birds of passage, especially in winter when the lake Ichkeul and surrounding marshes are home to over two hundred thousand migratory waterbirds across Europe. These include a considerable number of coots, mallards silbones, various species of ducks and lesser-known birds such as red and purple Ansar common, the emblem of the park.

Ichkeul is the only national park in Tunisia with facilities for visitors, but does not have lodging and camping is prohibited.
Mahdia

Mahdia is one of the few cities in the central Tunisian coast that has not yet been exploited tourism. It is a quiet enclave, founded in the year 916 AD and located on a small peninsula about 200 km southeast of the capital. Medina has a fascinating, and when founded the famous historian Ibn Khaldoun visited during the fourteenth century and described as Mehdia the richest city on the coast of Barbary.

Walking tour take about two hours. The el-Skif Kahla, solid fortified gate access is all that remains of the original city and has some incredible views from above. This opens the narrow, cobbled main street, Rue Ali Bey, who was formerly the souk and now collects an increasing number of tourism jobs. Heading east to the Place du Caire, the passenger will be presented with a square shaded by trees, vines and cafes. The ornate arched entrance and the octagonal minaret in the south of it belong to the mosque of Mustafa Hamza, built in 1772, when the plaza was the center of the Turkish quarter.

Continuing east on the Rue Ali Bey, is the Great Mosque. Built in 1965, is a replica of the original, in the year 921 AD, which was destroyed in 1554 by Spanish troops who beat a retreat. Non-Muslims can enter the courtyard outside the hours of prayer. Nearby, you can admire the tiny minaret of the mosque Slimane Hamza, and if it continues eastwards, towards the Borj el-Kebir, is a sixteenth century fortress situated on the highest point of the peninsula. Leaving the fort are a cemetery and a lighthouse near the remains of the original port.

Tunisia activities

The recommended beaches of Tunisia are around the northern towns of el-Ghar Melhado, Tabarka and Bizerte, preferable to the crowded tourist areas. Those further south are theoretically good, but not suited for swimming, the most recommended is in Aghir.

The country is beginning to discover the possibilities of outdoor recreation. The forest in the mountains of Kroumirie around Ain Draham, has enormous potential, but not yet drawn detailed maps. Most popular at the moment are the camel tours, for which you are advised to move Zaafrane, 12 km southwest of Douz, where you can negotiate from a walk one hour to eight days of a trip to the oasis. If the traveler is caught in the charms of the desert in some places you can go skiing in the dunes and racing yachts in the sand.

Birding is a popular activity, although the country has few resident species, but it is an important stop for migratory birds during spring and autumn. Ichkeul National Park in the north is the best site to contemplate.

Upload balloon and seaplane flights are two relatively new options to see the country from the air which can be conducted in Tozeur and Aghir respectively.

Tunisia history

Tunisia may be the smallest country in northern Africa, but its strategic position has ensured a rich history. Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans and French have spoken in the region at some time in their history. The first to appear were probably a group of Homo Erectus make a few hundred thousand years. Accessed by the Northwest through the Sahara from East Africa. It is believed that what is now arid desert was covered in those days of forest, scrub and grass savanna, similar to the plains of Kenya and Tanzania at present. The first clear sign of human habitation was discovered near Kebili, located south of town near an oasis, and dates back some two hundred thousand years ago.

The first of Tunisia today that Utica was settled by the Phoenicians in the twelfth century BC Used it as a stopover en route from its port of origin, Tire (in the current Lebanon) to the Iberian Peninsula. They established a chain of docks along the North African coast, including Hadrumnetum (Sousse) and Hippo Diarrhytus (Bizerte). But the port that occupies a prominent place in history books is Carthage, arch in Rome. It became the most important city of the western Phoenician world in the seventh century BC, especially after the decline of Tire, and the most powerful African Mediterranean early V century BC His power continued until the Punic wars, which pitted Rome (263-146 BC). But Carthage was completely wiped out after the defeat of Hannibal to Scipio, its inhabitants were sold as slaves and the region became a province of the Empire.

The emperor Augustus consolidated Carthage city in 44 BC as Julius Caesar claimed his predecessor, proconsular Design Capital of Africa. The region served as a granary for Rome, to the first century AD, the plains of Tunisia met over 60% of the wheat Empire. The Romans founded cities and colonies on the plains and the coast of Tunisia, the region experiencing its period of greatest prosperity of the Flavian dynasty and severe, its ruins are the main attractions today.

At the beginning of V century, when the power of Rome was in a state of irreversible decline, the Vandals decided that it was ripe for conquest. In ten years, made his capital in Carthage. Dispossessed of their practices away from the native Berber population, which formed small kingdoms and began assaulting the colonies vandals. The Byzantines of Constantinople, who seized the territory in 533 and kept it over the following 150 years, also clashed with the guerrillas Berbers. During the Byzantine period there was an artistic and economic renaissance.

Islam made its appearance in the seventh century when Arab armies spread from Arabia and Egypt conquered quickly. His first foray dates from 647. The Muslims defeated the Byzantines in Sufetula, Kairouan make up their base camp in the year 670. In Kairouan as its capital, the region became a province of the Islamic empire.

Berbers adopted Islam, but they rose up against the cruel to them Arabs. The uprisings continued until 909, when a group of Berber Shiites, the Fatimids, regrouped and snatched the Berber tribes of North Africa to the Arabs. Cairo was founded in the year 973 and established his capital in Mahdia, but the unit was soon broken, the tribes began fighting among themselves and North Africa was slowly reduced to ruins. This weakness was exploited by the Normans, who occupied the island of Jerba in 1134.

Conflicts arose again when the area was involved in the rivalry between Spain and the Ottoman Empire in the mid-sixteenth century. Tunisia changed hands half a dozen times in about fifty years before the Turks finally conquered in the year 1574 and become part of Ottoman territory until the nineteenth century, when France became the new power of the western Mediterranean.

In 1881 France, under the pretext of responding to attacks on the border of its Algerian colony, sent 30,000 troops to Tunisia, which were soon to occupy the capital and force the bey ruler to cede power. Were gradually seizing the best land in Tunisia. The defeat of France early in World War II allowed the Tunisian nationalists intensified their campaign for independence. One man in particular, Habib Bourguiba, leader of the nationalist Neo-Destour, undertook the task of putting the country at the forefront of international politics.

Tunisia gained independence officially March 20, 1956, with Bourguiba as prime minister. The following year, the country became a Republic and Bourguiba became its first president. The president promoted political and social changes of far-reaching: considering religion as a brake on progress of the country undertook to reduce their role in society outside of the Orthodox influence in their traditional fields such as education and justice. The Shariah courts (Islamic law) were abolished, and lands that had funded the mosques and religious institutions seized.

Bourguiba was president of the country until 1987, when his Interior Minister Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, won the presidency and Bourguiba was declared mentally incapacitated to govern and that he had "retired" to a palace on the outskirts of Monastir .

Ben Ali appease the Islamic opposition, making a pilgrimage to Mecca and ordered to observe the fast of Ramadan. Currently the opposition parties remain in hiding and there is censorship in the media. In the October 1999 elections, Ben Ali won by an absolute majority. After the death of Bourguiba in April 2000 raised widespread and obvious discrepancies in the regime of Ben Ali and the riots are becoming clearer.

Tunisia culture & people

The Berbers were the first settlers in Tunisia but, over the centuries, successive waves of migrants settled Phoenicians, Jews, Romans, Vandals and Arabs in the country. In addition there was a considerable influx of Muslims from Spain and the Ottoman Turks also contributed their bit for the ethnic mix.

Islam is the official religion of the country. Despite an undeniable religious revival, particularly among youth and the unemployed, the nation is still fairly liberal. There is a small community of practicing Jews in the capital and the island of Jerba, and about twenty thousand Roman Catholics.

Thanks in large part to the efforts of secular and socialist former president Habib Bourguiba, the conditions for women are better than the other countries of the Islamic world (in the eyes of Westerners, at least). This agent outlaw polygamy and divorce by repudiation, and also placed limits on the tradition of the wedding subsidies, establishing a women 17 years of age to marry and giving them the right to reject the proposals of marriage. Your opinion on the veil ( "an odious rag"), explains its insignificant presence in the moment.

Yet, traditions are not easily lost, and is recommended for travelers to dress discreetly. Men shorts are considered to be in underwear and in specific situations can cause outrage. Public demonstrations of affection between couples are frowned upon in most parts of the country.

Today the nation is virtually bilingual: Arabic is the language of government, but nearly everyone is fluent in French. This was the language in which teaching is conducted in the early years of Bourguiba and still is taught from age six. At school is also studied English and German, but it is difficult to read in either language outside the main tourist areas. Berber dialect chelha or tachelnit only heard in the villages isolated.

The hammam (public baths) are one of the centers of life in Tunisia, as in all of northern Africa and the Middle East, and are considered places indicated not only for washing but for relaxing and chatting. All cities have at least a hammam, with separate sections for men and women (sometimes in completely separate buildings). Men need not take anything, they are given a Fouta (Cotton towel) to move in the hammam. Women are expected to bring your own towel (and are in their underwear when washing, so it is recommended to bring dry clothes to change afterwards). A session includes access to the bath, a sauna and steam Kassa, a vigorous scrub with a coarse mitten.

In Tunisia, the art has been greatly influenced by the cultural mix of the country. Architectural styles, for example, range from Punic and Roman contributions to the houses of alpine red tiles Ain Draham, the Islamic architecture of the Arab medinas and underground dwellings of the Berbers in the south.

Malouf, which means normal, is the name given to a form of traditional Arabic music, which has become a kind of institution in the country. Among the principal styles of classical music include the Tunisian Nouba (the oldest of Andalusian origin), the chghoul and bachraf (of Turkish origin). Musicians, singers and composers include all known El-Azifet (a rarity in this part of the world, because it is a group composed exclusively by women), Khemais Tarnane, Raoul Journou, Saliha, Saleh Mehdi, Ali Riahi, Hedi Jouini and Fethi Khairi, although it will be hard to find outside the country.

Tunisia have been discovered in large number of tiles in an excellent state of preservation due to its warm and dry. Dating from the sixth century A.D. II and come mostly in private houses and public baths. The Bardo Museum in the capital, has a magnificent collection and the Museum of El-Jem.

Introduced by the French, the painting is a very contemporary art in Tunisia, with styles that run from the shapes of Hedi Turki and free up the intricate Arabic calligraphy of NJA Mahdaoui. Under the French mandate, the Europeans moved to Tunisia in North Africa under the sun paint, perhaps the most famous was Paul Klee, who visited the country for the first time in 1914. The art galleries are located in the capital and the surrounding area, and highlights the artists' haven of Sidi Bou Saïd.

culture and History Travel Tour to Morocco

Morocco overview

Morocco represents the upper lip of this seductive mouth that is the Mediterranean Sea, a Muslim land so full of mysticism that seems to move like a magic carpet for somewhere between myth and reality. Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakech, alone the names of these three cities to evoke the scent of spices in the nose of the most experienced travelers. Many Moroccan destinations have been idolized, and rightly so, but the visitor may regret that the brown that image. However, others praise the country's unique living history, its dazzling light, its art. The reality lies somewhere in between.
Morocco is the ideal starting point for anyone who travels to Africa. It's a leap of Europe and can be a welcoming place, bustling and exciting. In the open-air markets across the country are myriad rugs, wood items and jewelry. With the exception of cannabis, the main raw material is the leather of the country, considered one of the smoothest in the world.

Best time to Travel Morocco

On the coast, the weather is nice almost all year round, although in the north in winter and cooling can increase the humidity. On the plains, the most propitious time for tourism is that which covers the months from October to April, because there are hot days or warm (around 30 º C) and nights are cool and even cold (about 15 º C) . In regions of higher altitude is required to go well prepared for the winter. If you are planning to visit the mountains, the ski season often occurs between December and March. In most devoted to trekking trips in high season (from June 15 to September 15) it is advisable to book accommodation in advance.

Morocco Mean festivals and Holidays

In Morocco the religious and folk customs have found a point of attachment. The veneration of saints is condemned by orthodox Sunni Muslims but Islam is composed of many factions, which maintains such festivities. It is worth asking the details and dates of the holidays because many are not held on set days in advance on the Western calendar.
Towards the month of May takes place m'a Mousseum of Sidi Mohammed al-Anim, an occasion to see the blue men (Tuareg) and the business meeting of tribes. The National Folklore Festival of Marrakech is a tourist mainly ten days worth to attend to meet dancers, musicians and other artists from around the country. In October, in the small northern town of Erfud held a festival in honor of the fruit more typical of the desert, the dates. Independence Day, one of five national holiday calendar, is celebrated on November 18

Morocco Most Attraction Places to Travel

Rabat
The capital, the fourth imperial city, is a curious mix of historical tradition in a consolidated long history and modernity in the present. Abd al-Mumin was founded in the twelfth century, and used the kasbah ( "Fortress") as a base to fight the Spaniards. During this period built their most famous buildings, such as the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah des Oudaias. Stronghold for the Muslims expelled from Spain in early seventeenth century and the capital city only since the French occupation in 1912, the atmosphere in Rabat receives influences of Islam and Europe in almost identical measure. Few people in Rabat are involved in the tourism business, which means walking through the markets without having to guard against excessive pressure on vendors.
One of the most famous monuments is the Tower Hassan, the incomplete minaret of the great mosque begun by Yacoub al-Mansur. An earthquake interrupted its construction in the year 1755. Beside him stands the mausoleum of Mohammed V, grandfather of the current king. Kasbah des Oudaias, built in the cliff that rises over the Atlantic Ocean, houses a former palace converted into a museum of traditional art. Beyond the walls are the remains of the ancient city of Salé, the Archaeological Museum is one of the most interesting of b.
Among the historic central park (Jardins Triangle de Vue) and the main railway station are located in most hotels and restaurants in Rabat. The abundance of bars and cafes in this area have all the beer, kebabs, pizza, olives and ice cream that one could want. The Mohammed V international airport is located a short distance east of the city and many buses cover the route.

Casablanca

Of all the cities in the world, Hollywood chose to immortalize the Casablanca classic enclave of colonial and exotic flavor. Those who expect to find a sullen Humphrey Bogart in each corner will take a great disappointment. This town can not be defined as a calm: this is the largest city in Morocco and its industrial hub, a great and mighty metropolis where burnouses (traditional garment) Moroccans seem out of place in the presence of the West's own elegant suits and glasses sun brand.
This port city suffered a serious decline until the French, when Morocco became its protectorate in 1912, decided to restore it and built wide avenues, public parks and imposing buildings in Moorish style. The medina or old town is worth a visit to Casablanca and the Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest in the world. Mohammed V in the square are the most impressive examples of Moorish architecture. Casablanca Mohammed V airport shares in Rabat, which are scheduled flights to and from Europe and the Middle East.

Marrakech

Ranked as one of the most important cultural centers in Morocco, Marrakech is a lively city known for its markets and festivals. In its exciting urban core is the Djemaa el Fna. Oral Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in May 2001, this huge open space in the old quarter is home to jugglers, storytellers, snake charmers, magicians, acrobats and a range of harmless lunatics. Its souks (markets) are characterized by being among the best in the country. Marrakech has a wide selection of affordable hotels that facilitate the exploration of the old city.
Among the many attractions of the old quarter is the annex of the mosque Koubba Ba'adiyn, Almoravid a distinctive style, the magnificent Koutoubia mosque and the palace Dar Si Said (where the Museum of Moroccan Arts). Train services and bus routes provide regular reporting to the city of Casablanca and Rabat interior.

Fez

The most ancient of the imperial cities, Fez, is perhaps a symbol of Morocco. Its labyrinthine streets and shut down their brilliance and enhance its mysterious air arrogant. The medina of Fez el-Bali (Old Fes) is one of the biggest sites that exist in the medieval world, and the doors and walls that surround it boosts its magnificence. Unlike many people of his time fortified, Fez has not changed its original boundaries. Its population has expanded to the southwest and the slopes, forming an arc that is drawn from north to south of the new area.
In the old part, consisting of 9400 streets and alleys, rises the Medersa Inania Bou, a theological school, built in 1350. Not far from this place is the Henna Souq, a market specializing in hair dyes and tattoo tips for women. Next to the old walled city appears Fez el-Jdid, home of the Jewish community, made up of spectacular buildings. Between the two is located Dar Batha, now called the Batha Museum. The best way to reach it by train from Fez Rabat, Marrakech and Tangier.

Tangier

Tangier is a popular site irresistible and tourist port of entry, in addition to have become the residence of some of the largest international criminals. Located on the northern tip of Morocco, a cosmopolitan character and retains an established reputation for inspiring shady business and foreign mismatches.
The downtown souk boy is their main attraction. When Tangier was international territory, between 1923-1943 and 1945-1956, in addition to having become the meeting point for intellectuals and artists from around the world, this area served as a squalid scene of life in this still present feature. La Kasbah is one of the most attractive sights in the interior houses the Sultan's palace, Dar el-Makhzen the seventeenth century, become an interesting museum. Tangier short of five hours by train from Rabat and Spain is easily top ferry also from Gibraltar.

Todra Gorge

Near Tinerhir, a city of the High Atlas, at the end of a lush valley of palms and populated villages made up of mud huts surrounded by a fence of dry and rugged mountains, is one of the natural wonders Moroccan Gorge Todra. Its height is close to 300 m at its narrowest point the width is only 10 m, a river of crystal clear water runs through it.
Although the main gorge can be explored in a few hours, it is recommended that visitors have more time Backtracking towards Tinerhir. Along this route many emerging kasbahs, whose inhabitants are very welcoming. The climbing is becoming a very popular practice in the area and camping in the vicinity is also an attractive alternative.
In the throat and surrounding areas can be chosen among the many hotels that have been built. For the more adventurous, the area has a network of forest tracks that connect the different villages in the mountains of Middle and High Atlas. Buses run regularly by Tinerhir en route between Marrakesh and Er-Rashidi.

Essaouira

Coastal destination is the most popular among independent travelers, and to date, rarely approaching the organized groups. Its beach, beautiful stretches several kilometers to the south. Those who prefer a quiet place to haggling and pushing themselves to large cities, is preferred to Essaouira.
The strengths of the old city are a mixture of military architecture Portuguese, French and Berber, and his strength gives it a powerful mystique. The Skala du Port has good views, and here part of Orson Welles filmed his version of Othello.

Volubilis

About 33 km of Meknès is the site of the largest and best preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. Volubilis dates largely from the ages II and III, although excavations have revealed that this place was originally founded by the Carthaginians to the merchants 150 BC There is only one hotel in the vicinity, but have provided facilities for camping.

Trafaoute
This discreet city halfway between the Atlantic coast of Morocco is a good starting point for excursions to discover through the hills that surround it and the various Berber villages. On the outskirts is a curious set of rocks painted in blue in 1984 by Jean Verame. The Belgian artist chose a series of rounded and polished stones, typical of this area.

Morocco Activities

In Morocco there are endless possibilities for trekking, one of the most popular climbing routes for two days to Jebel Toubkal in the High Atlas mountains. Longer routes included in this enclave between the beautiful hiking and Tacheddirt Imlil, to overcome the snowfall. Once there you can find a place for skiing. Ukaimeden, about 70 km from Marrakech, is one of the favorite ski athletes. Other outdoor activities that can be practiced at least include the height rafting, about the High Atlas and fisheries in the south. The wind that blows in coastal Essaouira is ideal for enjoying the surf, and great for windsurfing. In fact, this is often mentioned as the place to practice this sport.

Morocco History

Unlike other North African nations, Morocco has been inhabited since time immemorial. The Berbers, or imasighen ( "men on earth"), have settled thousands of years ago and came to control all the territory between Morocco and Egypt. Divided into clans and tribes, have always jealously guards its independence and it is this feature has helped to preserve one of the most fascinating cultures of the continent.
The early Berbers remained undaunted before the invasion of settlers Phoenicians, Romans and even failed to alter his lifestyle after the sacking of Carthage in the year 146 BC They brought with them a long period of peace during which many cities were founded, and the natives of the coastal plains became residents. Christianity made its appearance in the third century, and again the Berbers asserted their traditional opposition to centralized power becoming followers Donato (a sectarian Christian leader who claimed that the donations were the only true Church).
Islam burst onto the world scene in the seventh century when Arab armies crossed the border. Conquered Egypt and quickly came to control the entire north of Africa towards the end of the eighth century. After this invasion were the Almoravids, who occupied Muslim Andalusia and Morocco, Marrakech was founded, which was designated as its capital, but soon were replaced by the Almohads.
Under these new rulers established a professional corps of officials and the cities of Fez, Marrakesh, Tlemcen and Rabat reached the zenith of its cultural splendor, but, finally, weakened by its defeat in Spain to the Christians, the Muslim government began to waver . In its place came the meronitas of the hinterland and the Moroccan resurface again until the completion of the Christian reconquest in Spain in 1492 sparked riots that erased the new dynasty in less than one hundred years.
Following the establishment of several dynasties and fall short, in the decade from 1630 Alaouite dynasty imposed a domain that remains strong today. With his pragmatism and despite difficulties, has managed to maintain for over three years of the independence of Morocco.
In the late nineteenth century European traders were introduced, and with them a long period of colonial renovations. Then arose the interest of France, Spain and Germany to invade it because of its strategic location and its wealth of marketing resources. The French conquered and occupied almost the entire country in 1912, Spain remained a small coastal protectorate and Tangier was declared an international territory.
French Marshal Lyautey respected Arab culture. Rather than destroy the existing Moroccan cities built new towns in its vicinity. Rabat became the capital and increased the port of Casablanca. The sultan remained, but only as a symbolic figure. Lyautey's successors were not so sensitive: its efforts to accelerate the domain led to the French people of the Rif Mountains, led by the Berber scholar Abd el-Krim, to rise up against the occupation forces. Only the union of the 25,000 Spanish-soldiers could finally force Abd el-Krim to surrender in 1926. By the 1930s more than two hundred thousand French had made his home in Morocco. During World War II, Allied forces used the country as a base from which to expel the Germans from North Africa.
After the war, the sultan Mohammed V created an independence party that finally secured Moroccan independence in 1956. During the process called Tangier, but Spain refused to hand over the northern cities of Ceuta and Melilla, which until today remains as the last Spanish stronghold in Africa.
Mohammed V appointed himself king in 1957 and was succeeded five years later by his son, Hassan II. The popular leader has consolidated his charisma among Moroccan Green March to organize the Western Sahara, formerly occupied by Spain. With a force of 350,000 volunteers, Hassan's followers bowed to Saharans to claim the area, rich in minerals as their own.
The approximately one hundred thousand inhabitants of the Sahara did not accept the invasion and demanded their independence. The Western Sahara's Popular Front for the Liberation of Saguia al-Hamra and Rio de Oro (Polisario) launched a war of independence. In 1991, the United Nations intervened in a ceasefire agreement and more recently have decided to stay in the area. While the population in general applauded the invasion of the south, is contrary both to the residents themselves as Algerian Saharan West. Since then, relations with Algeria in Morocco are very precarious.
In July 1999 King Hassan II, who had reigned as absolute monarch (although some semi-changes in the constitution) for 38 years, his death was succeeded on the throne by his son, King Mohammed VI, who promised eliminate government corruption, press freedom facilitate and institutionalize democratic reforms as soon as possible. Indeed, a few members belonging to the government of his predecessor was sacked, and Muhammad pardoned two journalists jailed for having questioned the policy of the prime minister, although seven newspapers were closed for having misinterpreted the limited severity of the monarch by the press as much freedom .
The long-awaited democratic reforms collide against a wall in this country is still rooted in its feudal roots. Nevertheless, Mohamed VI is more innovative social policy and particularly in the fight for women's rights. In 2002 he married Salma Bennani, a computer engineer. In 2004 the government adopted changes to the Family Law, granting more rights to women in terms of marriage, divorce and child custody.

Morocco culture and people

Morocco is composed of an elaborate patchwork of artistic traditions. The link is of the Moroccan art of music, from classical style that developed in Muslim Spain and the storytelling traditions of the Berbers to the fusion of contemporary African music, French chanson, pop and rock. Rai music, more identified with Algeria, is an emerging trend that, despite their clearly Afro rhythms (it is a stream of music inspired by the Bedouin), is probably the most western-style and combines a series of electronic tools to create a hypnotic effect.
In Morocco the dance is a discipline that is more discreet (theoretically Moroccan women should not dance). The most interesting is the dance move known as ahidous and comes from an ancient tradition and symbolic of the Berbers.
The craft is another staple of the country. The leather is appreciated by traders since the sixteenth century. An equally rich heritage and is held in growth is the production of carpets, pottery, jewelry, articles of bronze and wood carvings.
Also typical are the carved and painted panels for decoration. The tiles with elaborate friezes adorn the interior of many madrasas and other religious buildings, plus a few mansions. The mashrabiyya, lattices allowing Muslim women to see what happens on the street without being seen, yet is built. While these elements are not usually purchased as tourist souvenirs, serve to show that the Moroccan crafts are not totally dependent on the masses of visitors.
Morocco has inspired all kinds of foreign artists. French painter Eugène Delacroix spent much time and material portraying imagery Morocco after his visit to the country in the 1830s. The scenes of markets, harems and lion hunts were the central theme of her paintings from that time. Delacroix in his day was considered a bit daring. A century later, Hollywood joined the fashion of this country. First with Marlene Dietrich in Morocco, followed in the 1942 classic Casablanca. And when Peter O'Toole was walking in the area embodies the protagonist of Lawrence of Arabia that had already become an unreal space for countless young Westerners.
The Darija, the Arabic spoken in Morocco is very different from that used in the Middle East. In rural areas communicate through several Berber dialects, especially in the mountains. With regard to customs and lifestyle, Morocco tends to follow its own pace Islamic, but men continue to make the rules. The strict segregation of sexes in public life can embarrass more than a visitor, but in the big cities there are greater and more daring mix of trends.
Moroccan food is good and consistent, the national dish is couscous, a fine meal which usually accompanies the lamb stew with vegetables. The drink is mint tea, but this does not mean they are abstemious there is no law prohibiting alcohol

culture and History Travel Tour to Egypt part

Egypt Magic and attraction need more than a blog or web site to explain or show every little thing
that's because Egypt History and Egypt places , attraction , ages and Culture is very very big and full of events
so here we go again to the land of pharaoh era , Greek era , Roman era , Coptic Era and Islamic era all of them have make a great effect in the whole History and culture of Egypt and left us a million of Archaeological places and very exciting tourism adventure to a country that have more than Quarter of the archaeological and touristic places in the world

Egypt overview

Herodotus,the ancient Greek historian, described Egypt as' the gift of the Nile ', reflecting the admiration felt that in ancient times by the image of the pyramids, the Sphinx, Thebes, and the river itself. Pharaohs, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Turks and British ruled the African country and as a result, Egypt today is an amalgam of these legacies, along with the influence of Islam and the advances of the twentieth century.
Built villages stand beside Pharaonic ruins surrounded by buildings of steel, stone and glass. The Bedouins live in tents made of goat skin, while the farmers tilling the land with the primary tools that their ancestors had used. In the city are mixed with long tunics imported brands from the West; traffic competes with cars drawn by donkeys and goats that move freely. Nowhere are these contrasts and colorful as in Cairo, a magnificent city, crowded, where the relentless sound of car horn, the noise in the neighborhoods and the muezzin calling to prayer. However, not everything is chaos and noise in Cairo. Egypt is also the place with which dreams any diver, is also the image of a quiet caravan of camels across the desert or a peaceful stroll down Nile.

Egypt General Information

Best time to Travel Egypt


The winter months are undoubtedly the best time to approach the northernmost and Luxor, where summer heat can be endured difficulties as well as being the period of greatest influx of tourists to the Mediterranean coast. In Cairo, however, the winters can be quite cold, so the most suitable dates for the city are enjoying the spring and autumn. It is preferable to travel in the period between March and May to coincide with mild temperatures and therefore escape the heat of the midday masificaciones the beaches.

Egypt Mean festivals and Holidays

because the long History in Egypt there is many festivals and holidays and its classified to different categories :
Islamic :
The Islamic calendar (or AH) has eleven days less than the Gregorian.
Ras as-Sana is the celebration of the new year
Mouled al-Nabi, which is the birth of the prophet Mohammad. There are parades in the streets lit, with drums, special sweets and consequent events.
Ramadan, very important in the Islamic year its The fasting month, and the most beautiful nights in Egypt is in this month
(Id al-Fitr) marks the end of fasting, which is celebrated with great joy and fun.
Id al-Adha is a time of pilgrimage to Mecca.

National :

Fulfillment of the Nile :( Flooding of the Nile )
16-30 August of each year and is a huge event held to call for the protection of Nile water pollution and which Nile deserves honor because it is the source of agriculture and irrigation in Egypt
Christmas
7th of January (Old Calendarists)
new year
1st of January

EGYPT Most Attraction Places to Travel

Cairo

Cairo has been the heart of the country of the Nile for over a thousand years and will show the contrasts of all Egypt. In this city, was founded on medieval and contemporary western world in a mixture of mud houses and modern high-rise offices, cars and ostentatious cars drawn by oxen. No one knows exactly how many people have the city, but it is estimated that the figure is around 16 million, only the illegal settlements and slums are home to approximately five million people. The housing shortage is a serious problem, and traffic is chaotic, the government has sought to overcome these drawbacks with the opening of a metro network and build satellite neighborhoods.

Islamic Cairo is the name that is known to the old medieval quarter, walking through its streets is like back six or seven centuries. This is one of the parts of Egypt, and probably throughout the Middle East, with more densely populated. Neighborhoods such as Darb al-Ahmar is characterized by its small alleys, its adobe houses, the street vendors of food and their goats, camels and donkeys. There are mosques and temples everywhere, and in the air you breathe a strong smell of turmeric, cumin, and to animals. Among the architectural jewels of this area of the city, highlighting the Iben Tulun, one of the world's largest mosques, built in the ninth century, the mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i, the larger the country, where buried one of the most important religious leaders of Islam, and the Citadel, an impressive medieval fortress, the seat of Egyptian power for seven years, which houses within it three major mosques and several museums.

Coptic Cairo has its origins in a Roman fortress city founded hundreds of years before Islamic Cairo. Home to one of the first Christian communities in the world, but both Jews and Muslims and Coptic Christians living in this city, considered a sacred place. The only thing that kept the fort of Babylon was a tower built in the year 98 AD who originally ruled an important port on the Nile, before it changes its course. The Coptic Museum is located at the foot of the tower, his presentation covers Egyptian Christian era between the years 300 and 1000 AD This stunning collection includes religious and secular art, and works in stone, wood and metal, manuscripts, paintings and ceramics.

The city of Giza, located on the west bank of the Nile, covering a length of 18 km, including the pyramids , one of the seven wonders of the world. Despite the high number of visitors they receive each year, are still awesome to be placed before them. These buildings, which stand on the plains of the desert, next to the Sphinx and other smaller pyramids and temples have survived the ascent to power and subsequent fall of the great dynasties and conquerors.

There are several establishments that offer tourists food and accommodations, but the prices are cheaper in the center of Cairo, especially in Midan Orabi and Midan Talaat Harb.

Alexandria

Alexander the Great came to Egypt after having repeatedly defeated the armies of the Persian empire and elected a small fishing village on the Mediterranean coast to found the new capital, Alexandria. The city revolves around Midan Saad Zaghlul , a large parade down to the dock. It had a library with over five thousand volumes, and at the height of its splendor, became the center of science, philosophy and intellectual thought of his time.

The Greco-Roman Museum houses relics dating from the third century BC Here you can admire a magnificent black granite sculpture of Apis, the sacred bull worshiped by the Egyptians, as well as mummies, sarcophagi, pottery, jewelry and antique tapestries. The Roman amphitheater was discovered in 1964. It consists of thirteen tiers of white marble, preserved in perfect condition, around the stage. The current excavations are continuing, mainly in the north.

The pillar of Pompey is a massive pillar of pink granite, 25 m in height and 9 meters in circumference. Christian crusaders, on their arrival in Egypt, was attributed to Pompey, but it was actually erected in the center of the large Serapeum by Diocletian in the year 297 AD When the Crusaders arrived, a thousand years later, destroyed the library and Serapeum Cleopatra, leaving only standing pillar. The catacombs of Kom El-Shokafa is the burial place of Roman wider than is known in Egypt and are comprised of three levels: tombs, chambers and hallways. Its construction began in the second century AD, and were extended to accommodate more than three bodies. They had a banquet room where the afflicted to pay their respects with a funeral meal. The experts hope to discover the Palace of Cleopatra in Alexandria under the sea. The columns were found in 1998 and recently some archaeologists have recovered a beautiful statue of the deep. The Crusaders destroyed the library of Cleopatra.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina one of greatest and bigger library in the world Bibliotheca Alexandrina is the New Library of Alexandria to the restoration of the spirit of openness and research that have characterized the old library; It is not just a library also its cultural complex . and a very nice place to spend a good time and also taking some photo
Citadel of Qaitbay or the Fort of Qaitbay that you can see from any where in Alexandria beach built in in 1477 AD

Port Said

Located at the north entrance of the Suez Canal, Port Said is a very young city, according to Egyptian standards. It was founded by the ruler Said Pasha in 1859, the year that began the excavation of the canal. In 1956, Port Said was bombed during the Suez crisis and again in 1967 , during the wars , despite the work of reconstruction that have been out. This city was built on land gained from manzala lake and sits on an isthmus joined to the mainland by bridges. Ferries cross the lake in the direction of Al-Matariyya and go to Port Fuad, the image of the huge boats that line ready to enter the canal is really incredible. Port Said, unlike many other Mediterranean cities of Egypt , is not overrun by tourists seeking sun and sand. Nor is it a usual destination for travelers from other countries, although it has colonial architecture and the end of the century with several excellent museums and gardens.

Aswan

It is the southernmost city of Egypt and has long been the gateway to Black Africa, as well as being a market town situated at the crossroads of ancient caravan routes. Situated on the banks of the Nile, not far above the Tropic of Cancer. Formerly, he was a city known as Sunt strong, very important during the early years of Coptic Christianity. In the middle of the Nile, Elephantine Island was known as Yebu, there was located the main part of the city and its temples Sunt. Although the ruins and shrines in this area are not so great or have been preserved as well as the rest of the country, there are good reasons to visit. The Nile, in its passage through the Great Dam and Lake Nasser, is expanding in this area dramatically and the spectacle of the Falucho that glide along the river at sunset is a unique experience.

Abu simple

aswan is full of museums and temples from the great ancient pharaoh like the historical site of Abu simple one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site there the great temple of Ramesses II and other small temple , The temple of Hathor
and Nefertari's temple

Luxor
This city was built on the ancient city of Thebes, his magnificent monumental architecture and its excellent preservation make it the most visited destination in Egypt . For centuries, tourists have walked by the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the impressive funerary monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Hatshepsut. In the Nile, is frequently Falucho and old barges between luxury cruises, sailing between Cairo and Aswan.
The temple of Luxor was built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III on the other ancient Theban temple, and then was rebuilt by Tutankhamun, Ramses II, Alexander the Great and Nectanebo. Since 1885, excavations are taking place. The temple of Karnak is a set of monuments that were the main place of worship in Theban times, what are the grounds of the temple of Amon, the larger, the space occupied by the temple of Mut, in the south and the area devoted to the temple of Montu. The land of Montu and Amun were connected with the Nile by canals to facilitate the passage of vessels during sacred ceremonies. There is a daily service of buses and trains between the cities of Luxor and Cairo.

EL-Ain EL-Sukhna: the Arabic for “ hot spring” was named after the nearby sulphur springs .It is also an ideal site for fishing and water sports.

Ain El Sukhna is about 140 km east of Cairo, just an hour away by car. It offers Cairenes recreational time, handy respite from the city's fast paced life .

The area is 40 km south of the port of Suez and is administratively part of the Suez Governorate. Its territory extends along the Red Sea shoreline for about 60 km from the southern borders of Ras El Adebbya in the north to Ras El Zaafarana in the south.

Close enough to Cairo for a day-trip, this popular weekend resort has fine beaches and coves, coral reefs, fishing and water sports

This is not just a destination for people wanting a suntan and a week at the beach. It is also a place where you can indulge in history. There is ample evidence that the area had its place in history. It includes a famous group of the world's oldest monasteries west of Zafarana on the road to Kuraymat.

The most celebrated ones are those of St. Anthony (c. 251 -356), the founding father of monasticism, and St. Paul, which were built more than 16 centuries ago.

A group of historians also believe the northern part of the Mount of Galala El Bahareya was the point from which Moses and the Israelites crossed in their exodus from Egypt's mainland into the Sinai Peninsula. They cite in their claims the fact that the bottom of the Gulf of Suez at this point is elevated.

Egypt Activities

The excellent and numerous beaches of the Mediterranean coast and the Egyptian Red Sea are the perfect place for swimmers. Scuba diving and snorkelling are by far the most popular in Egypt. The Red Sea is one of the best places in the world to dive with Bell. Egypt waters teeming with underwater life, may find corals, crustaceans and fish of all shapes and colors imaginable. They are also very popular jeep safaris and camel rides. The government is also promoting Egypt as a destination to play golf.

Egypt History

The Egyptian history is intrinsically linked to the Nile, the heart of the economic, social, political and religious since the first settlement in the area. Under the rule of Menes, about five thousand years ago, united independent states located in the river, leading to the first stable monarchical dynasty.

The pharaohs were considered divine and a stratified society ruled. Around 2600 years BC, the first pyramid was built, and over the next five years, construction techniques were gaining magnificence. Throughout the IV dynasty Pharaonic power reached its height when Cheops, Kefrén and sent Micerinos build the pyramids of Giza. Later, during the dynasties VI and VII, was diluting his power and caused a social revolution. There were small principalities, which led to the emergence of two centers of power from which ruled simultaneously Heracleópolis (near present Beni Suef), in Middle Egypt, and Thebes (today's Luxor) in Upper Egypt.

It was not until the arrival of the pharaoh when Metuhotep II reunited the two lands of Upper and Middle Egypt. During the period between the years 1550 and 1069 BC, the New Empire prospered under the rule of pharaohs Tutmosis I like (the sovereign first buried in the Valley of the Kings), his daughter Hatshepsut, one of the few women who ruled, and Tutmosis III, who expanded the empire into western Asia.

Amenhotep IV rejected the religious tradition and took the name Akenaton in honor of Aton, the disc of the rising sun. He and his wife Nefertiti created a new capital called Tell el-subsides, dedicated exclusively to the new god. The son of Akenaton, Tutankhamun, ruled Egypt for nine years and died while still a teenager. Since then, a succession of generals, Ramses I, II and III, Seti I, came to power and was immortalized in monuments and temples giant. The empire began a new period when the Greek conqueror Alexander the Great established a new capital and dynasty after their arrival in the year 332 BC

Under the dominion of Ptolemy I, Alexandria became a great city. During the three years of Greek domination, many experienced rivalries between the noble class, which led many exiles and murders. Meanwhile, an expansion in Rome began to take an interest in Egypt, and it was setting the stage for one of the oldest and serial stories on the world. The tragic end of his players, Mark Anthony and Cleopatra, favored the annexation of Egypt to the Roman Empire.

When the fall of the Empire, during the third and fourth centuries, the country was invaded by Nile Nubians, North Africans and Persians. Despite these incursions, the Byzantine Empire inherited the power of Rome and remained entrenched until the arrival of Arabs in the year 640 AD They introduced Islam and founded in Fustat (present site of the city of Cairo), the seat of an unstable government. Invade Egypt in the past were the Fatimids, who built the city of Al-Qahira (Cairo), their dominance was an era of prosperity of the country and its capital.

Christians in Western Europe seized Fatimid rule to much of its territory during the crusades of the eleventh century. However, in the year 1187, the Syrian Seljuks sent an army, fortified Cairo under the orders of the Chamber ad-Din and expelled the Crusaders from Jerusalem. Salah ad-Din enlisted in their ranks mamluks (Turkish mercenaries), which eventually overthrowing his dynasty and ruled Egypt for two and a half centuries. In 1517, the country fell to the Turks and because most of these mamluks shared origins, the Ottoman sultans in Constantinople left, in large part, the Egyptian government in their hands and simply raise taxes. This situation continued until Napoleon occupied the country in the year 1798. The French emperor was expelled by the British in 1801, which in turn were founded by Mohamed Ali, a lieutenant in the Albanian contingent of the Ottoman army. In 1869, Said Pasha, Ali's grandson, opened the Suez Canal.

The paralysis of the national debt enabled British and French settled in Egypt in 1897, thus ending the first exercising sovereignty over the country Turkey. During WWI, Egypt fought with the Allies, and shortly afterwards the British allowed the formation of a national political party, the Wafd. King Fuad I was elected representative of the constitutional monarchy, and for thirty years, British monarchists and members of the Wafd competed to seize power. After World War II, seven Arab countries, founded the Arab League. But in Egypt the war had left the country in ruin, while its defeat in the 1948 war against Israel led to even greater chaos outside. In 1952, a dissident group of officers led by Colonel Gamal Abdel Nasser, carried out a bloodless coup Neither the British nor the French took over the possibility of losing control of the country, so invaded. United States and the Soviet Union joined the UN peacekeepers who were deployed in the area and insisted that the invasion was complete. Nasser gained independence and became a national hero, acclaimed throughout the Arab world.

At the end of the 1950s, Nasser made an attempt at unification between Egypt, Syria, Yemen and later Iraq, with emphasis on Arab unity and excluding Israel. After months of growing tensions between Egypt and Israel, the Jewish state ended up launching an attack against the country of Egypt June 5, 1967, and began the Six-Day War in which Israel destroyed the Egyptian air force, conquered the Sinai Peninsula and closed the Suez Canal.

Anwar el-Sadat, Nasser, vice president of government, succeeded him in office to his death in 1970, and initiated improvements in relations with the West. On October 6, 1973 Sadat launched a surprise attack on the zone of the Sinai Peninsula, occupied by the Israelis,the Egyptian army made a great job in field also the first air strike was remarkable and destroy its all objects in Sinai the crossing of the Suez Canal is the largest crossing in war history and after six hour the Egyptian success destroying the Bar-Lev line which is the strongest defenses line at this time in 14 October the Egyptian air force also made a heroic battle with them mig gets against israela phantom with American Help and support "Operation Nickel Grass".. when they was trying to make a counter strike at the back lines of Egyptian army and destroy the support line and strike a mean HQ and airports inside Egypt like 67 war but the Egyptian air force success to stop it and prevent them from going inside , usa start the largest air support to isreal and technology help by American satellite and this is makes the war turns while the soviet support foucsing in syria line away from Egypt , that make Egypt accept the cease fire case in the end of war and start negotiation . that leads to the Camp David agreements. Israel agreed to withdraw the rest point they still kept in Sinai, and Egypt officially recognized its existence. Many members of the Arab world felt betrayed by Sadat, who ended up being assassinated on October 6, 1981.

Hosni Mubarak, Sadat's vice president, was sworn in and has since been the leader of the country. Mubarak has surprised many with his skillful political strategies in the problem region, and has improved relations with Israel and other Arab countries. The resurgence of religious fundamentalism in the Arab world, has brought many challenges to Mubarak, who has suffered numerous attacks against his life. During the Gulf War, sent 35,000 troops to fight Iraq, although the war was considered an example of Western imperialism in the Arabic world, the commitment of Egypt resulted in the improvement of its relations with the West.

In 1992, Islamic fundamentalists began a campaign of violence and intimidation against tourists and Egyptian security forces. The middle years of the 1990s were marked by tensions with Sudan because of the area Halaib. In 1994, there were severe floods which, when added to the persistent conflict "with the fundamentalists, culminating in the assassination attempt of President Mubarak in 1995. In 1997, the massacre of more than seventy people, most tourists at the hands of Islamic fundamentalists, shocked the Egyptian public opinion and caused thousands of people around the world to rethink their holiday destination. For now, Egypt has remained relatively stable, with low unemployment, rising literacy rates and increased privatization in the economy.
In 1999 President Hosni Mubarak won the elections for the fourth time. Continues with its pro-Western policy, despite pressure from some fundamentalist groups. In late 2000, signed a one trillion dollars to build a gas pipeline and supply gas to Syria and Lebanon

Egypt Culture & People

For most Egyptians, their shape and lifestyle has changed little in centuries. Although, of course, the twentieth century has left its mark for most fellahin (peasants), the situation remains virtually unchanged. Among the majority of Egyptians, the prevailing attitude that it will have to be an almost fatalistic view, the result of thousands of years to suffer pests, water shortages, floods and invasions. For them, life is marked by the same circumstances that shaped the previous generations.

The painting has been part of Egyptian life from the first drawings of some of the pyramid at Saqqara, about 2300 years BC But it was the pharaohs of the New Empire the most interested in adorning the interior of their tombs with vivid imagery and beyond resurrection. Egyptian painting was the influence of contemporary Western art until the mid-twentieth century, when the Egyptian painters began to seek their own path. Some of the best known contemporary artists are Gazbia Serri, Inji Eflatun, Abdel Wahab Morsi, Adel el-Nasser Wahib and SIWI.

Egyptian pop music has been represented, until recently, the ubiquitous voice of Om Kolthum, the so-called "mother of Egypt, who died in 1975 but whose music legend and still survive. Their songs, the best known example of Egyptian music in the West, were based on poems and operettas. Also noteworthy musicians Abdel Halim al-Hafez and Mohamed Abd el-Wahab. In recent times, have been increasingly incorporating elements of Western pop music in contemporary Egypt, and its greatest exponents Amr Diab, Mohamed Fuad and Hakim.

While Egypt is famous for belly dance, this dance is considered vulgar and a sign of promiscuity. In fact, many of the dancers from the belly dancer working in hotels and resorts are European or American, because, according to their cultural parameters, so provocative behavior is unbecoming of an Arab woman. In fact, the Egyptian dancers like Fifi Abdu, need bodyguards to protect themselves against Islamic fanaticism. However, large family gatherings, weddings or private parties, dance can be part of these celebrations.

The writer Naguib Mahfuz, with more than forty novels and thirty scripts to his credit, he received the Nobel Prize for literature in 1988. His most outstanding works are The Cairo Trilogy (1957) and also children of our neighborhood, written in 1956, which remains banned in Egypt and many consider it blasphemous (this may be why, in 1994, the author, at that time had 83 years of age, suffered an attack). Other prominent writers are Tawfiq al-Hakim, Yahya Haqqi and Yusuf Idris. After Mahfouz