Discover the Forgotten Historical Landmarks in Cairo.
The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Cairo Tower are among the most famous and most visited historical landmarks in Cairo, which receive great media publicity. But what about other landmarks with a long history such as the Babylon Fortress, the Church of Saint Abu Serga, and the Windsor Hotel? Many of these monuments date back more than two thousand years, but do not receive the same great media coverage or fame among tourists that other landmarks receive. Take a tour with us to some of these landmarks and discover the history behind them: Babylon Fortress.This fort is more than two thousand years old, as it was built in 300 AD. The Babylon Fortress, which once reached the Nile River, was built to protect the transport of ships between Upper and Lower Egypt. It is one of the few Roman monuments that still stay to this day. Church of Saint Abu Serga.The Church of Saint Abu Serga was built in the fourth century, and was named after Saint Sergius; a martyr during the reign of the Roman Emperor Maximian, Its importance is due to the fact that it was the last place at the end of the Holy Family’s journey in Egypt. Windsor Hotel.The Windsor Hotel is the first of its kind in Egypt and Africa, and was built before many famous hotels in London and Paris. The hotel was originally a Turkish bath for the royal families in Cairo, and then became known as the “Shepheard” Hotel. The “Shepheard” Hotel was a favorite of English soldiers and many foreign public figures, as it hosted Mark Twain and Josephine Baker. Beit Zeinab Khatoun.Beit Zeinab Khatoun is more than 500 years old, and is characterized by the Islamic architectural style. It has now become one of the most famous cafes in Cairo and a favorite among people and tourists. Gayer Anderson Museum.The museum, which was the headquarters of Major General Gayer Anderson Pasha, was built in honor of him. The museum, built in the 17th century, houses Gayer-Anderson’s large collection of furniture, carpets and antiques. Mohamed Ali Palace in Shubra El-Kheima.When Mohamed Ali Pasha wanted to isolate himself, he chose the Shubra El-Kheima area. It is said that he chose this area specifically for its tranquility and proximity to the Nile River, while others suggest that he chose it because it was outside the borders of Cairo. Egypt had never seen anything like this palace at the time, as it was distinguished by the presence of a uniquely designed entrance and spacious courtyards.
