Top 32 Famous Landmarks in Egypt You Must Visit
Egypt is a land of mystery and intrigue, where ancient history and modern civilization converge to create a truly unique and fascinating destination. From the majestic pyramids to the bustling streets of Cairo, Egypt is a country that has captured the imaginations of people from all over the world for centuries. With so much to see and explore, it can be difficult to know where to start. We’ve compiled this list of the top 32 landmarks in Egypt you must visit.
Whether interested in ancient history, art, and architecture or want to soak up the local culture, Egypt has something for everyone. From the Valley of the Kings to the Great Sphinx, each landmark on this list has its unique story and its special place in the history and culture of Egypt.
So, join us on a journey through the land of the pharaohs as we explore some of the most famous landmarks in Egypt. From the towering pyramids to the ancient temples, we’ll take you on a tour of some of the most incredible sites in this amazing country. Whether you’re planning a trip to Egypt or want to learn more about this fascinating destination, this list is the perfect place to start.
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Top 32 Famous Egyptian Landmarks
Egypt is a country that is rich in history, culture, and architectural wonders. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the ancient temples of Luxor, Egypt is a land that has captured people’s imaginations worldwide. Knowing where to start can be difficult, with many incredible landmarks to explore. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top 32 Famous Egyptian Landmarks you must visit:
Famous Egyptian Landmarks: Cairo & Giza
Cairo and Giza are two of the most popular destinations in Egypt and are home to some of the most famous landmarks in the country. From the iconic pyramids to the bustling streets of Cairo, these two cities offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are some of the top landmarks that you should visit when exploring Cairo and Giza:
1- The Pyramids of Giza
No trip to Egypt is complete without a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza. Delving into their fascinating history is essential to appreciate these ancient structures fully. Built as tombs for pharaohs, the Great Pyramids are the only surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The largest of these is Khufu’s Pyramid, also known as Cheops.
Constructed by Pharaoh Khufu around 2560 BC, this colossal Pyramid stands an impressive 146 meters (481 feet) – nearly twice the height of its neighboring pyramids. A true engineering marvel, the pyramids continue to amaze visitors with their sheer size and intricate design, inspiring wonder and awe for thousands of years.
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2- The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Sphinx of Giza is an impressive statue featuring a lion’s body and a human’s head. Made entirely out of limestone, the statue stands tall and imposing, reminiscent of the mythical creatures from ancient mythology. The Sphinx is situated on a hill created by layering sand onto a rock outcropping, which initially resembled an Egyptian pyramid.
This famous landmark is adjacent to the Great Pyramid, making them both essential destinations for anyone visiting Egypt. A marvel of ancient art and engineering, the Sphinx continues to captivate visitors worldwide with its enigmatic expression and impressive size.
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3- Grand Egyptian Museum
The Grand Egyptian Museum, situated on the Giza Plateau in Egypt, is a colossal museum and one of the largest in the world. The museum’s scale is impressive, with more than 10 million visitors expected to visit annually. The project began construction on October 6, 2014, following an official groundbreaking ceremony with then-Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab.
However, legal disputes over its funding and purpose halted construction until 2017, when President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi approved work to resume. Once completed, the museum will be home to 100,000 artifacts from all eras of Ancient Egyptian history, from prehistory to Roman rule. Visitors can expect to be transported through time as they explore the museum’s exhibits, marveling at the stunning artifacts and learning about Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
4- Djoser’s Step Pyramid
The Step Pyramid of Djoser is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian architecture and one of the oldest pyramids in Egypt. It was built during the reign of King Djoser, the second ruler of the Third Dynasty, in the Saqqara necropolis south of Cairo.
The Pyramid is renowned for its unique design, consisting of six stepped layers that rise to 62 meters (203 feet). This structure is surrounded by a complex of buildings, including courtyards, temples, and chapels, all enclosed by a massive wall. Inside the Pyramid are several chambers and galleries, some containing offerings and artifacts from Djoser’s reign.
The Step Pyramid of Djoser is considered a groundbreaking achievement in Egyptian architecture, representing a significant shift from earlier mastaba tombs to the monumental pyramids that followed.
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5- The Old Cairo
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6- Ibn Tulun Mosque
Situated in Cairo’s Sayyidah Zaynab neighborhood, Ibn Tulun Mosque is a renowned landmark in Egypt. As one of the city’s oldest and most well-preserved mosques, it was constructed in the 9th century by Ahmed Ibn Tulun, the founder of the Tulunid dynasty.
The mosque’s striking architectural style and exquisite design make it a prime attraction for visitors, who can discover its many alluring features and learn about its cultural significance and fascinating past. Due to its immense popularity among tourists and locals, the mosque is often used for cultural events and festivities.
Anyone interested in Cairo and Egypt’s cultural legacy should pilgrimage to Ibn Tulun Mosque. The city’s vibrant cultural heritage is showcased by its exceptional architecture, captivating design, and compelling history.
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7- Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque is a historic Islamic mosque in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. It was established in 970 AD as a center of Islamic learning and is renowned as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious Islamic universities. The mosque’s name, “Al-Azhar,” means “the shining” or “the brilliant” in Arabic, and it is considered a symbol of intellectualism and knowledge in the Muslim world.
Al-Azhar Mosque is a place of worship and a center of learning where scholars come from all over the world to study Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and other disciplines. Visitors can witness the mosque’s rich cultural and religious heritage by attending its prayer services or visiting its library, which houses a vast collection of ancient manuscripts and books on various Islam-related subjects.
It’s also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its stunning architecture and immerse themselves in its rich history and culture.
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8- Muhammad Ali Mosque
The Muhammad Ali Mosque is an iconic landmark atop the Cairo Citadel, a medieval fortification tower over the city. This beautiful mosque was commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha, the ruler of Egypt, and constructed by the Greek architect Youssef Bushnaq between 1805 and 1848.
Its unique architecture blends Ottoman and Egyptian styles, featuring a stunning white alabaster exterior, a large central dome, two smaller domes, and four towering minarets. The mosque also provides panoramic views of Cairo, which visitors can enjoy by climbing to the top of its minaret
9- The Salah El-Din Citadel
The Salah El-Din Citadel is another famous fortress on Mokattam Hill on the west bank of the Nile River. Saladin built it during his reign as sultan in the late 12th century, and it remains one of the best-preserved Islamic fortresses in Egypt. It has served various roles throughout history, from military outpost to royal residence and museum exhibit space.
10- Khan El Khalili Bazaar
In the heart of Cairo’s Muslim Quarter lies the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in Egypt, dating back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore its many shops and stalls offering various products, including antiques, spices, jewelry, souvenirs, and street food. It’s also a great place to experience local culture and enjoy tea at one of the many cafes. The market comes to life during Ramadan, with late-night parties attracting thousands of people.
11- Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities is a popular tourist attraction in Tahrir Square. It boasts an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, funerary items like coffins, statues, jewelry, and weapons dating back to 3200 BCE. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Egypt’s rich cultural history and fascinating artifacts.
Famous Egyptian Landmarks: Luxor
Luxor is a city in southern Egypt often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. It is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the country, including some of the most impressive ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Here are some of the top landmarks that you should visit when exploring Luxor:
12- The Karnak Temple
The Karnak Temple Complex boasts over 1,000 temples and shrines and is one of the nile river landmarks, and is one of the world’s largest temple complexes. Constructed over a millennium by different pharaoh dynasties, around 20% of its structures remain intact. The complex comprises three main parts: the Amun-neighborhood Ra’s (the most popular) and the Mut and Khonsu Precincts (lesser known). It is best visited during winter for a more relaxed and relaxed and less crowded experience.
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13- The Luxor Temple
The Luxor Temple, situated on the east bank of the Nile River in Luxor (previously known as Thebes), was built during the 14th century BC by pharaohs Amenhotep III, Ramesses II, and Seti I. Dedicated to gods Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu, who were worshipped in Thebes during the New Kingdom, the Temple features an entrance hall leading to an inner court with columned halls on either side.
It then leads to another courtyard surrounded by columns and statues, including one of Ramses II sitting on his throne and a pair of statues of Amenhotep III and Queen Tiye with their three children. The Temple also houses a shrine for the Hathor goddesses, symbolizing love and beauty.
14- The Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is an Egyptian wadi where the tombs of numerous pharaohs were carved into cliffs and decorated with hieroglyphs and paintings that reveal details of ancient life and each pharaoh’s reign. The most famous tomb here is King Tutankhamun (or King Tut), discovered in 1922 in its pristine, undisturbed state.
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15- The Temple of Hatshepsut
The Temple of Hatshepsut, located in Der al-Bahari in southern Egypt, was constructed by Queen Hatshepsut, who ruled from about 1508 to 1458 BC. The Temple is dedicated to the gods Isis and Osiris and is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Built from limestone blocks adorned with inscriptions that provide information about daily life during that period, it also contains records of taxes paid by citizens.
16- The Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, showcasing the pharaoh striding forward with hands resting on knees. The taller statue stands at 20 meters (66 ft), and the shorter one at 10 meters (33 ft).
They flank the entrance to Amenhotep III’s Temple on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor (ancient Thebes). Unlike other pharaohs, whose statues were typically built posthumously, these were constructed during Amenhotep III’s lifetime, around 1323 BC, as part of an expansion project within his funerary temple complex at Deir el-Bahri.
Famous Egyptian Landmarks: Aswan
Aswan is a city in southern Egypt known for its stunning natural beauty, ancient ruins, unique cultural heritage, and beautiful sights that attract tourists worldwide. Here are some of the top attractions you must visit when exploring Aswan:
17- The Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam is one of Egypt Famous Landmarks; it is a gravity dam built between 1960 and 1970 across the Nile River in Aswan, Egypt, for $1 billion. The dam was designed by Soviet engineers and aimed to prevent floods and provide enough water for irrigation purposes.
Its construction had significant impacts on Egypt’s government and society, as well as on North Africa and the Middle East. The primary purpose of the hydroelectric dam is to offer water for irrigation and control flooding along its length by storing excess floodwaters during rainy seasons and slowly releasing them into tributaries when needed during dry seasons.
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18- Nubian Village
Located in Aswan, Nubian Village is one of the largest Nubian villages in Egypt. It was established in the 1800s by a group of Nubians who sought to return to their traditional way of life. Today, the village is home to around 1,000 people, primarily farmers who rent land to grow crops such as cotton and corn.
Other residents include merchants and artists who sell their goods in nearby markets. The houses in the village are constructed using traditional methods, with mud bricks made from Nile silt mixed with water or straw. Each home has a courtyard where families gather for dinner or tea before retiring to their bedrooms on the upper floors.
19- Abu Simbel Temples
The Abu Simbel Temples are a pair of ancient temples located in southern Egypt near the Sudanese border. The temples were built by Pharaoh Ramesses II between 1279 and 1213 BCE to celebrate his victory over the Hittites at Kadesh. They are part of UNESCO World Heritage Site number 733, known as “Nubian Monuments, Abu Simbel and Nuri.” In 1966, the temples were moved 100 km south from their original location on Jebel Barkal Mountain to avoid flooding from the construction of Lake Nasser.
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20- Edfu’s Temple
Situated on the West Bank of the Nile in Upper Egypt, the Temple of Edfu is an ancient Egyptian temple built on the site of a Middle Kingdom temple to Horus and Seti I. The building was constructed under Ptolemy XII Neos Dionysos between 80-51 BCE. The temple complex was built in three stages, with contributions from Ptolemy III Euergetes, Ptolemy XI Alexander II, Caesar, and Cleopatra VII Philopator.
21- The Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo Temple is one of the nile river landmarks. Located in Aswan, the Temple of Kom Ombo was built and dedicated to Haroeris, a god with the head of a falcon, during the Ptolemaic era. The Temple is divided into two main parts, one dedicated to Horus and the other to Sobek, the crocodile god.
22- Philae Temple
Built during the time of the Ptolemies between 237 and 57 BCE, the Philae Temple is located in Aswan, Egypt. The Temple was initially situated on an island but is now located on Agilkia Island after being rediscovered by Giovanni Battista Belzoni and moved to its current location.
Egypt Famous Landmarks: Alexandria
Alexandria is a city on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landmarks. Here are some of the top landmarks that you should visit when exploring Alexandria:
23- Alexandria Library
The Alexandria Library is a modern library located in Alexandria, Egypt. It is built on the site of the ancient Library of Alexandria, one of the ancient world’s largest and most important libraries. The modern library was opened in 2002 and has since become a major cultural center and tourist attraction in Egypt.
24- Pompey’s Pillar
In Alexandria, Egypt, Pompey’s Pillar is a 24.3-meter-tall Roman triumphal column made of red granite. It was built in 297 CE to honor the Roman general and politician Pompey the Great by his son Sextus Pompilius. While the top of the pillar has been missing since at least the 14th century, the lower part remains a famous landmark in Alexandria.
25- Qaitbay Citadel
The Qaitbay Citadel is a palace and fort in Alexandria, Egypt, built in 1472 CE by Sultan Qaitbay as part of a plan to improve the city. Over the years, it has served as a military stronghold and royal residence for various rulers. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and home to several museums showcasing its history, architecture, and artifacts from ancient cultures such as Greece and Rome.
26- Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa
The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa is an ancient burial site in Alexandria, Egypt. It is one of Egypt famous landmarks, a popular tourist destination, and one of the city’s most essential and unique archaeological sites. The catacombs were discovered in 1900 when a donkey fell into a hole in the ground, revealing a doorway to an underground tomb. The catacombs were used as a burial site during the 2nd century AD and are a mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.
27- Montaza Palace
Montaza Palace is a historic palace complex in the eastern part of Alexandria, Egypt. It was built in the early 20th century as a summer residence for the royal family of Egypt and is known for its beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and rich history.
Famous Landmarks in Egypt: Egypt Oasis
Egypt is home to several oases, areas in the desert where water and vegetation are present. These oases are beautiful, unique natural landscapes with important cultural and historical significance. Here are some of the top landmarks that you should visit when exploring Egypt’s oases:
28- Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis is Located in the western desert of Egypt, known for its natural beauty, ancient ruins, and traditional culture. The oasis has several historical landmarks, including the Temple of the Oracle, the Fortress of Shali, and the Mountain of the Dead.
29- Bahariya Oasis
Bahariya Oasis is a lush oasis in the western desert of Egypt; Bahariya is known for its hot springs, palm groves, and ancient ruins. The oasis has several historical landmarks, including the Valley of the Golden Mummies, the Temple of Alexander the Great, and the Black Desert.
30- Farafra Oasis
Farafra Oasis is a small oasis in the western desert of Egypt; Farafra is known for its stunning landscapes, including the White Desert and the Crystal Mountain. The oasis is also home to several traditional villages, where visitors can experience the local culture and way of life.
31- The White Desert
The White Desert is a natural wonder located in the western desert of Egypt, near the Farafra Oasis. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including white chalk rock formations eroded by wind and sand over thousands of years.
32- The Black Desert
The Black Desert is a unique and beautiful landscape in the western desert of Egypt, near the Bahariya Oasis. It is characterized by its black volcanic rocks and mountains, which were formed by ancient volcanic activity. The black color of the rocks comes from the volcanic ash and basalt that make up the landscape.
Conclusion and Travel tips for seeing famous places in Egypt
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the famous landmarks of Egypt. From the towering pyramids of Giza to the ancient temples of Luxor, Egypt’s rich history and culture continue to captivate the world. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to travel, Egypt has something to offer everyone. We hope this blog post inspired you to plan your adventure to this incredible country and experience its wonders. Until next time, happy travels!
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