Your Exclusive Guide of Egypt Nile Cruises

Egypt People

Embark on a remarkable journey to Egypt and unlock more than just its iconic landmarks. Immerse yourself in the true essence of the country, where its people embody warmth, welcome, and vibrant cultural heritage. Engaging with the locals will offer you an opportunity to embrace their traditions, forge genuine connections, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The exceptional hospitality of Egyptians is renowned, leaving an indelible impression on the fortunate travelers they encounter.
Egyptians are celebrated for their genuine kindness and helpful nature, elevating the travel experience for those who visit. Your vacation in Egypt will introduce you to some of the most extraordinary individuals on Earth. With a deep-rooted instinct to honor every guest, Egyptians will invite you to discover their country as if it were your own, ensuring that your journey becomes unforgettable.

The Warmth And Hospitality Of The Egyptian People

The people of Egypt possess a welcoming spirit that captivates all who visit. Their genuine hospitality will make you feel like a member of their extended family, inviting you into their homes and offering a unique glimpse into their daily lives. Their warmth and openness will create an undeniable connection, making you yearn to return to this extraordinary land time and time again.

To the Egyptian people, every visitor to their homeland is a cherished guest in their own house. This deep-rooted sense of hospitality safeguards tourists, as incidents of theft or scams are minimal. You can explore Egypt's wonders with peace of mind, knowing that you're in a country where the locals prioritize your safety and well-being.

Egyptians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, embodying the proverbial phrase "mi casa es su casa" (my home is your home). This genuine hospitality extends beyond borders, welcoming visitors from around the world to experience Egypt's diverse landscapes and storied history.

Egyptian Cultural Heritage

Egyptian culture is nothing short of enchanting, captivating travelers with its rich history and profound traditions. Local Egyptian guides will share fascinating stories, intertwining their culture and religion, enriching your vacation with deep insights. You'll find yourself falling head over heels for Egypt's cultural tapestry, cherishing every moment spent unraveling its secrets.

"In Egypt, we are living history." - Naguib Mahfouz Said

The Language: Arabic, the Language of Warmth

Arabic is the official language of Egypt, and it serves as a conduit for cultural exchange. Although many Egyptians also speak English, taking the time to learn a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in building connections and showing respect for the local culture. Egyptians appreciate the effort and will warmly assist you in your language journey.

The Religion of Egyptian People

The majority of Egyptians are followers of Islam, with Islam being the state religion. This deeply rooted faith plays a significant role in the daily lives and traditions of the Egyptian people. From the mesmerizing call to prayer echoing through the streets to the stunning mosques that grace the skyline. Visitors are encouraged to respectfully observe and appreciate the rich religious heritage that shapes Egyptian society.

Statistics and Facts:

Did you know that Egypt is home to over 100 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in the Middle East and Africa? Despite this, nearly 95% of Egyptians live along the fertile Nile River valley and delta.

Egyptian Diet: Savoring Culinary Delights

Egyptian cuisine is a delectable fusion of flavors and aromas that reflect the country's history and cultural diversity. From iconic street food like falafel and koshary to hearty dishes like kofta and stuffed vine leaves, every bite is a journey of taste. Egyptians value communal dining and often share meals with family and friends, making the dining experience not just a way to satiate hunger but also a chance to bond and create lasting memories.

Dress in Egypt

When it comes to clothing in Egypt, most people embrace modern Western-style garments for their day-to-day attire. However, in rural areas and during special events, traditional clothing continues to hold significance. Men often wear the galabeya, a loose-fitting ankle-length robe, while women may wear the galabiya along with a headscarf. It's important to note that Muslim women in Egypt commonly wear the hijab, a headscarf, and some may choose to wear the niqab, a face veil.  These clothing choices reflect the cultural diversity and religious customs observed in Egypt.

In Conclusion: Embrace the Extraordinary Magic of Egypt and Its People

The Egyptian people play a vital role in creating an extraordinary and unforgettable experience for visitors. Their unmatched warmth, genuine care, and captivating cultural heritage will elevate your journey to new heights. Embark on a remarkable vacation guided by the exceptional Egyptian people who bring this ancient land to life. With Around Egypt Tours, you'll not only witness the awe-inspiring splendor of Egypt but also forge meaningful connections with the locals. Let the heartwarming magic of Egypt and its people create cherished memories that will endure a lifetime.

Things to do in Egypt

Egypt, The birthplace of ancient civilization, is a country you must have visited at least once in your life. Egypt has accomplished a delicate mission of Balance between modern life and ancient life. If you've always wanted to visit this wonderful country, here are some of the most brilliant things to do in Egypt that are going to make you want to book your Egypt vacation Right now.

1- Pyramids of Giza

The last standing landmark of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these pyramids, which have been constructed by ancient Egyptians as a tomb of their great Pharaohs, is considered the most considerable landmark to be described in Egypt. This whole structure as a building is a testament to this era's scientific advancements and one of the secrets of the mysterious pharaonic civilization.

2- Temples of Luxor

Luxor, the Pharaohs' old capital, is essentially an open-air museum with a rich past spread in every corner of the Area city. The most notable things to do in Egypt are the Temples of Karnak, and the Memorial at the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings, and more! All will totally blast your mind.

3-Cairo city

Explore things to do in Egypt by visiting the ancient Islamic Cairo and explore Al-Azhar Mosque, the dazzling Sultan Hassan Mosque, among many other Mosques and minarets from the Fatimid period to the Mameluke era. Try climbing up to the roof of Bab Zuweila, shop at the famous souk of Khan el-Khalil, and soak up the spirit of the ancient city in its countless labyrinths of history.

 4-Alexandria

Alexandria is established by Alexander the Great; this seaside town was the residence of Cleopatra. There are some remnants of the rich history, the buildings' architecture, the grand squares, the parks, the citadel, etc. It's a quiet town where you can chill after a long day or take a lazy walk along the corniche Seashore, enjoy Egyptian food in the cafes, or shop until you're gone.

5-Aswan

Among things to do in Egypt, Aswan city is a reminder of Egypt's rich history and culture, an ancient town on the Nile River's south end. You can visit Abu Simble temple, Nubia's settlements, the Tombs of the Nobles, Aswan Botanical Gardens, Elephantine Island, unfinished obelisk, or take a camel journey to the St. Simeon Desert Monastery. check our Nile cruises packages and visit more!

6-Nile cruise

Relax and admire the sights, sounds, and beauty after a hectic drive in Egypt, history, and essence on the Nile River cruise. There are several choices, ranging from 4 days sailing cruise or five days or more. These Nile cruises begin with Luxor and Aswan.

7-Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai A beautiful place to explore Egypt's natural beauty. You should walk the mountain and see a magnificent sunrise or dip In the Red Sea's calming waters.

8-Siwa Oasis

Designed around the remains of an old citadel of mud-brick, sturdy landscape, and hot springs. Don't forget to visit Shali, the ancient town, and the Temple of the Oracle, where Alexander the Great was named Egypt's ruler. Also, take a 4x4 into the desert to see the Great Sand Sea and enjoy the Bedouin style life and the Roman Spring eye. Finally, you have to taste the newly planted dates and olives.

9- The white desert

The White Desert is a wonder of nature and for all nature enthusiasts and international experience. Natural snow-white rock formations are utterly surreal in the middle of the desert. It looks like a sci-fi movie set made by design out of the Cray during sand storms.

Several things to do in Egypt. The past, the history, the food, and nature all of these making it one of the world's most beautiful countries with limitless abundance. Egypt is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, which can never be forgotten.

Experience more things to do in Egypt, you can browse our Egypt travel packages and Nile cruises and seize the chance to witness all the beauty of the ancient Egyptian treasures.

Egypt, the heart of the ancient world, and the owner of the largest civilization in history for thousands of years, has many attractive tourist places.

It contains many historical places in multiple eras that attract lovers of Egyptian civilization from everywhere. Egypt tourist attractions vary between the monuments of the pharaonic cities, including the pyramids, which are one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the most wonderful human-built in history, and other wonderful destinations.

There are many types of tourism in Egypt as well, including medical and religious tourism, and it also enjoys beautiful beaches full of coral reefs and different types of fish with wonderful colors.

It is one of the least expensive tourist countries in the world. At the level of tourism diversity, tourism in Egypt includes various forms, which makes Egypt's various tourist cities meet the tastes of all tourists of all kinds.

So, if you are determined to travel to Egypt, here is a short tour through which we will learn about the best Egypt tourist Attractions. You should visit at least one of them.

Here are the 4 best archaeological and cultural Egypt tourist attractions.

The antiquities of Egypt and its tourist areas are spread throughout its various regions, but there are about 7 cities that are the most attractive and famous among tourists. These cities overcrowded with dozens of tourist historic sites in Egypt, or enjoy a beautiful and distinctive coastal nature.

So in the following lines we will briefly address the most important tourist cities in Egypt and the best tourist Attractions in Egypt in various cities.

1.Tourism in Giza

There are many types of tourism in Giza, such as historical archaeological tourism and medical tourism, which is represented by 400 eyes in the Bahariya Oasis to recover from diseases, recreational and Islamic tourism.

The Three Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

The pyramids are one of the most important Egypt tourist attractions, and you can enjoy seeing the creativity of the ancient Egyptian architects and builders in making these three masterpieces from more than 40 centuries.

With taking photographs for you with them and entering the Great Pyramid and visiting the royal tombs available if you want. Then you can take a tour of the area on the back of a camel or a horse. You can buy special souvenirs for family and friends from the shops that surround the place, and have a delicious meal at one of the nearby restaurants.

The ancestors of the pharaohs built the Great Sphinx, which has a majestic genius design; Believing that it would be a shield protecting their royal tombs treasures from theft. It has now become the subject of wonderful photographs by day and amazing nighttime audio performances showing the glories of the Pharaohs “Sound and Light.”

Saqqara Pyramid

It is considered an open archaeological museum, as Saqqara meets with most periods of ancient Egyptian history.

We find dozens of tombs from the ancient era, and pyramids for the kings and queens of the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties. It contains the greatest tombs of the ancient state, as the peak of art in the ancient state is found in Saqqara. It has some of the pyramids of kings of the Middle Kingdom, the Modern State and the Late Age. It also has the burials of the sacred calf Apis "Sarabium", and in the Coptic era, Saqqara owns Deir-Anba Jeremiah, Jeremiah, and much more.

Pharaonic Village

The Pharaonic Village is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Giza. It shows the state of Pharaonic Egypt. Since entering the village, you can see Egypt thousands of years ago.

The tourist takes a Nile river cruise in which he can see all the contents of the village. You can see the Mummification Museum, the Museum of the Pyramid Builders, the Cleopatra Museum, and other museums that review the history of Egypt.

The scenes that you see during the Nile cruise in the village will take you that you traveled in time to the era of the pharaohs. You can see people in the living museum, and semi-extinct birds. The village includes places to buy souvenirs of a pharaonic character and an entertainment area for children.

2.Tourism in Cairo

Since it has been the country's administrative capital for many centuries. It is natural that it includes a variety of tourist areas in Egypt that cater to different tastes, as Cairo is one of the most diverse and full of Egypt tourist attractions.

In Cairo, you will find religious tourism landmarks through mosques, churches and museums of a religious nature such as the Islamic and Coptic Museum. Entertainment tourism through parks, international shopping centers, local markets, art centers, cinemas, Nile cruises, historical tourism by visiting various museums.

The most important landmarks of the city of Cairo:

The Grand Egyptian Museum

Home to King Tutankhamun's collection of treasures, the Grand Egyptian Museum will be the largest archaeological museum complex in the world when it opens in Cairo. It contains a collection of about one hundred thousand artifacts, it also houses a 3D cinema and a museum dedicated to children.

Citadel of Salah al-Din al-Ayubi (Citadel of the Mountain)

It includes within it several mosques, such as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which he built in the heart of the Citadel, the Mosque and Madrasah of Al-Nasir Qalawun, and the Mosque of Ajmad Katkhuda. The castle also includes Joseph's Well, the castle military school, the beating house, the castle industry house, Bab Al-Ezz workshops, and the Egyptian army barracks. The Citadel is one of the best tourist destinations in Cairo.

Khan Al-Khalili

It is one of the most famous and oldest markets in Egypt and the world. It dates back to 6 centuries ago in the sale of souvenirs and handicrafts. You can find textile and leather manufactures, copper, silver and gold works through small adjacent shops that represent the body of antique traditional markets.

3.Tourism in Luxor

Luxor or (Thebes), as it was called in the past, is one of the most famous tourist cities in Egypt, where its population exceeds more than one million and three hundred people.

The city of Luxor was famous throughout the ages, starting from the ancient state until our time. It was taken as the capital of Egypt, and inhabited by many families belonging to the ancient Egyptian dynasties.

There are many tourist activities that attract tourists to visit the city, including hot air ballooning, guided tours, boarding Nile cruises. It also holds many sports tournaments on its lands, such as the Luxor International Taekwondo Championship, the World Cup of Billiards, the Luxor International Marathon, the African Cycling Championship pneumatic.

Karnak Temple (one of the greatest Egypt tourist attractions)

Karnak Temple is one of the most famous temples in Luxor and is located in the north of the city. The temple includes 11 temples inside and was built more than 4500 years ago.

The temple contains a edifice and a courtyard with many statues that embody the goddess Sekhmet, and another courtyard that contains columns, the hall of the saints, and the Holy Mass. Luxor Temple can be reached to the south by taking the road of rams that connects the two temples to each other.

Luxor Temple

The external construction of the temple is formed by the presence of the Sphinx Road paved with slabs of stone and statues in the form of the Sphinx on both sides of the road. At the forefront of the museum there are two obelisks of pink granite. The western obelisk was gifted to France in 1836 AD to decorate the Place de la Concorde in Paris

The eastern obelisk is located in front of the northern tower and is characterized by the emergence of four monkeys saluting the sun at its rising. On the northern side there is the mosque of Abu al-Hajjaj al-Luxor. The right wing highlights the inscriptions of the battles fought by King Ramses II. The left wing is a complete inscribed description that highlights the courage of Ramses II in his confrontation with the Hittites.

Valley of the Kings and Queens

It is divided into the eastern and western valleys and was built to build tombs for the pharaohs and nobles in the era of the modern state. The princesses, and the king deliberately hid them so that they would not be looted.

4.Tourism in Aswan

The city of Aswan, located on the banks of the Nile River in the south, which embraces the ancient Egyptian civilization. Therefore, tourism in Aswan is a destination for thousands of tourists annually.

Aswan Governorate includes many important cultural and archaeological monuments, where complete museums and temples that still exist today in all their grandeur, such as the Temple of Philae and the Temple of Kom Ombo. Aswan is also famous for medical tourism.

Luxor and Aswan are two connected tourist destinations and we advise you to visit them together.

Medical Tourism Areas

Aswan is one of the most important tourism centers in Egypt with the aim of recovering from incurable diseases such as bone and joint pain and skin diseases.

One of the most famous of these areas is Wadi Al-Allaqi, the Isis Island Resort, Abu Simbel, the Damira area. Where the affected areas of the body are buried or massaged with yellow sand Saturated with sunlight or brown clay sand for the purpose of treatment.

Philae Temple

Philae Temple in Aswan is a beautiful temple that attracts tourists. It was rescued from drowning after the construction of the High Dam, by UNESCO and transferred from the island of Philae to the island of Agilika.

The temple includes many huge columns, carved with decorations, inscriptions and murals with wonderful drawings, which lived through many antique historical eras. And do not forget to take souvenir pictures of you next to this great architectural building.

Abu Simbel Temple

Abu Simbel Temple in Aswan is famous for its amazing ancient and modern architectural and engineering designs. It is one of the most important tourist areas in Aswan, to which tourists come constantly from all over the world. The temple is located west of Lake Nasser, the largest artificial lake in the world.

Abu Simbel Temple is one of the most important tourist destinations in Egypt. Although this temple was covered with sand in the desert until it was rediscovered in 1813 AD, but because it includes two temples containing four statues, this made it a distinctive tourist landmark.

What increased its tourist value is also due to its distinctive construction. It makes the inner sanctuary illuminated by sunlight during two days a year, and accordingly thousands of tourists come to watch and celebrate this phenomenon.

From diving deep into the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea and star gazing amidst the vastness of the desert to floating down the Nile River and gawking at the ruins of one of the world's oldest civilizations.  When it comes to travel experiences around the world, Egypt is a unique destination that leaves visitors spoiled for choice.

With a lot to see, the struggle for many visitors is just where to start;  As always, I'm happy to help you!  Here is my selection of the four best places to visit in Egypt.

Abu Simbel temples

Perhaps the most impressive temple in all of ancient Egypt with its gigantic rock-cut facade, the great Sun Temple of King Ramses II at Abu Simbel was created in honor of the mighty King Ramses II.  Guarding the entrance to the temple and carved into the side of a mountain are four colossal statues of the pharaoh himself.  In a rush of architectural precision and selfishness, Ramses II had the entire temple carefully angled and oriented so that the sun's rays would line up twice a year on the date of his accession to the throne (February 21) and his birthday ( October 21) and illuminate the internal sanctuary of the temple.  This incredible natural phenomenon offers a spectacular spectacle known as the King Ramses II Sun Festival.

Alexandria and El Alamein

Founded by the legendary Alexander the Great, it is a charming city located on the northern coast of Egypt, bathed by the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.  The fact that Alexandria was once home to the Pharos, a lighthouse (albeit collapsed) that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is a huge draw for travelers.  You may not be able to witness this epic structure today, but the city is still steeped in its importance, and a visit to the National Museum of Alexandria is sure to help you learn about Alexandria's cultural heritage and intriguing past.  Traveling from Alexandria to Cairo, you can also stop at the site of some of the most brutal battles of the second world war, El Alamein.  It has become a unique pilgrimage site for people who wish to pay their respects to those lost during the fight.  The rows of graves in the various war cemeteries are a permanent reminder of the tragic loss suffered by every country involved.  However, El Alamein is not just a sad relic of the past; it is the perfect place to appreciate life and its moments of pleasure.

Cairo

One of the fascinating cities and starting point for most tours in Egypt is Cairo.  You can get a glimpse of Cairo's lesser-known and more intriguing suburbs on the Backstreets of Cairo tour, which is exclusive to On The Go at the start of most group tours in Egypt.  Also, be sure to grab a bargain in the lively Khan el Khalili bazaar and enjoy a high tea at one of the nearby cafes, which is ideal for people-watching.  Another highlight is the magnificent Saladin Islamic Citadel and the Sultan Hassan Mosque, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

When the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum finally opens its doors later in 2022, you can add it to the long list of reasons to visit Cairo.

Pyramids of Giza

Eternally one of Egypt's top attractions, no visitor should leave without visiting the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza.  They are the only seven wonders of the world left from the ancient world and are more than 4,600 years old.  They're an imposing sight, and the whole complex is still shrouded in mystery.

If time is an issue, it is possible to see the main parts of the pyramid site in about 2 hours, but spend a full day in this area if your schedule allows.

So that's it!  This is my guide to the best places to visit in Egypt.  There are so many great places to visit in Egypt, and this guide is just to get you started planning your Egypt vacation.

What Is the Top Egyptian Dishes?

Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and vibrant culture, boasts a rich culinary heritage that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, diving into the local cuisine is an essential part of your Egypt tours. Here are the top Egyptian foods you must try:

1- Koshari

Koshari is one of the most famous Egyptian dishes characterized by its hearty and flavorful combination of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas. Topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions, this street food favorite offers a delicious vegetarian option with many flavors and textures. Dedicated koshari restaurants exclusively serve this delightful dish, emphasizing its popularity and significance within Egyptian cuisine.

2- Ful Medames – Iconic Egyptian Fast Food

Ful Medames, a staple breakfast dish, consists of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin. Often enjoyed with fresh bread, it’s a nutritious and satisfying way to start your day in Egypt.

3- Ta'ameya or falafel – Iconic Egyptian Fast Food

Known elsewhere as falafel, Ta'ameya is made from ground fava beans rather than chickpeas. These deep-fried balls of goodness are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and warm pita bread.

4- Hawawshi (Egyptian Meat Pie)

Hawawshi, an Egyptian Meat Pie, is a savory delight that consists of spiced ground beef encased within a loaf of bread, which can be either oven-baked or rotisserie-cooked. This dish encapsulates the essence of comforting home-style Egyptian cuisine.

5- Shawerma

While Shawarma is popular across the Middle East, the Egyptian version is a must-try. Tender slices of marinated meat, usually lamb or chicken, are grilled on a vertical spit and served in a warm pita with garlic sauce, tahini, and fresh vegetables.

6- Fattah

Fattah is a celebratory dish made from layers of crispy bread, rice, and slow-cooked meat, topped with a tangy tomato and garlic sauce. It is a hearty meal, traditionally served during special occasions like Eid al-Adha.

7- Mahshi

Mahshi is a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. This dish is a true comfort food, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.

8- Kabab & Kofta (Grilled Meats)

Tender flame-grilled lamb chunks (kabab) and spiced minced meat formed into sausage shapes and grilled on skewers (kofta) make for a hearty Egyptian meal. Kabab & Kofta are served with bread and green salads, including tahini and baba ghanoush.

9- Mulukhiya

Mulukhiya is a green, leafy soup made from jute leaves, cooked with garlic and coriander. Cooked in various meat stocks and served with rice or bread, Mulukhiya is a culinary delight not to be missed

10- Basboosa

For dessert, Basbousa is a sweet semolina cake soaked in syrup, often garnished with almonds or coconut. This moist and delightful treat is perfect for those with a sweet tooth, providing a lovely end to any meal.

11- Kunafa(Konafa)

Kunafa, a Sweet and Crunchy Treat, entices with its resemblance to fine strands of hay. This dessert is a must-try, prepared with semolina noodles, butter, creamy cheese, and sweet syrup. Often adorned with nuts for an additional burst of flavor, this indulgent delicacy promises a delightful culinary experience.

Ancient Egypt is referred one of the most evocative periods in history that schoolchildren learn.

But even now, thousands of years later, we are still learning new things about how people lived. Although the land of pharaohs, mummies and majestic cats is widely known and recognized, there are many interesting facts about Egypt that many people are unaware of. Here is a laydown of the top ten facts about ancient Egypt:

The ancient Egyptians loved board games.

After a long day of work along the Nile River, Egyptians often relaxed by playing board games. Numerous different games have been played, including "Mehen" and "Dogs and Jackals," but perhaps the most popular was a gambling game known as "Senet ."This hobby dates back to 3500 BC., and it was played on a long painted board with 30 squares. Each player had a series of pieces that moved on the board based on the roll of the dice or the throw of sticks. Historians still argue over Senet's exact rules, but there is no doubt about the game's popularity.

The pyramids were not built by slaves.

The life of a pyramid builder was certainly not easy: workers' skeletons often show signs of arthritis and other ailments, but evidence suggests that communal graves were not built by slaves but by wage earners. These former construction workers were a mix of skilled craftsmen and temporary hands, and some appeared to be proud of their craft. Graffiti found near the monuments suggests that they often gave their crews humorous names such as "Drunk of Menkaure" or "Friends of Khufu ."The idea of slaves building pyramids with the crack of a whip was first evoked by the Greek historian Herodotus in the 5th century BC. However, most historians now dismiss it as a myth. Although the ancient Egyptians were certainly not averse to owning slaves, it appears that they used them primarily as laborers and servants.

Cleopatra was not Egyptian.

Another interesting fact about Egypt is that Cleopatra, one of the most famous figures of ancient Egypt, is actually Greek, not Egyptian. Although she was born in Alexandria, she had no Egyptian blood and was instead a descendant of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which was a line of Greek Macedonians. The Ptolemaic dynasty ruled ancient Egypt from 323 to 30 BC. The name Cleopatra is actually Greek for "Famous in her father" or "The fame of her father."

Makeup And Ancient Egyptians

The ancient Egyptians believed that makeup had healing powers that protected them from the sun, and therefore makeup was worn by both men and women. The black eye paint we know so well from ancient Egyptian depictions was made of red, and they also used green makeup made of copper.

The Egyptians saw animals as embodiments of the gods!

Falcons, lions, baboons, and dogs were extremely popular animals among the ancient Egyptians. The animals were mummified and buried with their owners after their death;

accompany and watch over the dead.

Many of the gods were represented in therianthropic forms;  part human, part animal. In some cases, they were completely animal.

Egyptian women had a wide range of freedom and rights.

Although they may have been publicly and socially viewed as inferior to men, Egyptian women enjoyed great legal as well as financial independence. They could buy and sell belongings, serve on juries, make wills, as well as even enter into legal contracts. Egyptian women did not normally work outside the home, but they did, and they usually received the same pay for doing the same jobs as men.

Compared to the women of ancient Greece, who were actually the property of their husbands, Egyptian women also had the right to divorce and remarry. Egyptian couples were even known to negotiate an ancient prenuptial agreement. These contracts listed all the property and wealth the woman had brought into the marriage and guaranteed that she would be compensated in the event of a divorce.

A new capital

Cairo has been Egypt's capital for more than 1,000 years, but the government is building a new capital of about 45 kilometers (28 miles) to the east to ease Cairo's congestion. The plans call for the yet-to-be-named city to be home to major government departments and ministries, as well as foreign embassies.

The 356 days calendar

The calendar of 365 days divided into 12 months was invented in Egypt.

Egyptian gods

The ancient Egyptians believed greatly in more than 2,000 gods! They had gods for everything from chores to danger! They all had different responsibilities and had to be worshiped so that life could be kept in balance.

One of the largest dams in the world is located in Egypt

Egypt is home to one of the largest dams in the world. The Aswan Dam is referred to as the largest embankment dam in the entire world, stretching across the Nile, separating Egypt from Sudan and creating Lake Nassar. Lake Nassar is one of the largest bodies of water in the world.

Many of the things that people cherish in their lives today were invented by the ancient Egyptians, including paper and pens, keys and locks, and even toothpaste.

Well, here are some fun facts about Egypt that a lot of people probably didn't know about.