Aswan Travel
Despite being
Egypt’s 3rd largest
city, something about the scenery, the people, and the intense African sunshine make Aswan one of the most relaxing
and beautiful places in all of Egypt (even in Summer).
Located in the far south of the country, Aswan is often described
as the ‘Gateway to Egypt’, where the Nile pours out of Africa and into the Middle East, bringing with it a
tangible cultural blend that’s evident throughout the city.
As a result of this
crossroads location, Aswan has
always prospered as an important centre for trade. In ancient times this was the city of Swenit (literally meaning “trade”) and supplied
granite, sandstone and quartz to many of the Pharoahnic monuments and temples around Egypt. Modern dayAswan (from “As Saun” meaning “market”) still prospers
as a market town, with its colourful Sudanese souq well known for its exotic spices.
More than
anything Aswan thrives as a destination for tourists. Its scenery is as impressive as anywhere along
the River Nile and can be easily enjoyed from one of the many tranquil riverside cafes and restaurants.
Another means of
enjoying Aswan is by Felucca, the quintessential
Egyptian sail boat. The outline of these vessels across the water is as much a part of
the Aswan travel skyline as the palm trees and the
sand backs.
Most visitors take the time to sail out to one or several of the Nile's attractions including Elephantine Island, Issa, or Kitchener Island. Fryal Gardens on the
East Bank make for a tranquil afternoon escape.
Since what remained
of Nubia was submerged under Lake Nasser on the building of the Aswan Dam, Aswan has become the place to learn about the once
mighty Nubian civilisation and experience what remains of it.
And of
courseAswan has its own selection of
ancient monuments too. These include the Ptolemic Temples
of Edfu and Kom Ombo just a short train ride away, the Monastery of St Simeon, the once submerged
Temple ofPhilae, and the prodigious
Abu Symbol, one of the greatest single Egyptian monuments anywhere after the Pyramids.
Aswan travel
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