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Aswan

The city Aswan located in southern Egypt provides a rich history, natural beauty and tranquil ambiance along the bank of nile river. It has ancient monuments and beautiful landscapes that tell the tales of ancient gods and kings. Let’s read about its history, culture, facts and famous itineraries.

History of Aswan:

In ancient times about 4500 years ago it was known by the name of “Swenet” which was a trading hub during the pharaonic kingdom. It holds an nubian culture which is still present these days. Aswan was a source of granite that was used for the building of temples and obelisks in ancient times. Nowadays, Aswan still has an importance due to its high dam that reflects modern engineering achievement.

Top attractions in Aswan:

Aswan has ancient landmarks that show the architecture skills of ancient Egyptian people like:

• Philae Temple of goddess Isis which was founded in the 3rd century located on Agilkia Island.
• Abu Simbel temple that was built by Ramses II and later on relocated to save from the flood that was caused by Aswan High Dam.
• Aswan High Dam is a modern engineering marvel which prevents the city from flooding and provides hydroelectric power.
• Unfinished Obelisk that shows the ancient Egyptian construction techniques.
• Nubian Museum that shows the rich history and culture of Nubian people.
• Elephantine Island has archaeological digs which made it a world heritage site in 1979.
• The St. Simeon Monastery which was built during the 6th century gives panoramic views of desert and river.

Natural Beauty in Aswan:

Aswan is also rich with natural beauty which makes it more vibrant for the tourists. The ancient Nile river  has islands as well. The botanical gardens that are on islands have an exotic plants. Nubian villages that have different color painted houses on the bank of the river show the culture and tradition of people. The golden sand dunes contrast with the blue Nile.

Facts about Aswan:

Some interesting facts about Aswan are:

• Aswan is an ancient boundary that is a gateway to Africa.
• The first Cataracts, a natural series of rapids in the Nile, is near Aswan.
• The key trade center on Elephantine Island of ancient time is in Aswan.
• Aswan is a winter destination for the tourists due to its warm weather. 

Famous foods in Aswan:

Although Egypt has vibrant foods but some Aswan famous foods are:

• Feteer ( pastry )
• Molokhia ( green soup )
• Fish Dishes
• Tajeen ( Nubian Dish )
• Halawa or Basbousa ( Sweet Dish)

Aswan High Dam:

The Aswan high dam that was built in the 1960s which was a monumental dam that protects the city from the floods of nile. There is also Lake Naseer which is the world's largest man made lake. 

Festival in Aswan:

There are two main festivals in Aswan that are celebrated are Abu Simbel Sun festival and Nubian culture festival. The festival of Abu Simbel is held twice in a year on February 22 and October 22, where the statue of Ramses II and inner sanctuary of the temple are lighted with sunlight. In Nubian heritage festivals are celebrated with music, dance and traditional crafts.

Best Time to Visit the Aswan:

Due to its hot temperature the visit during the months of October to April is the best choice because in these months the weather is cooler.

Excursion from Aswan:

There are lot of excursions from Aswan that can make your trip memorable but here are the best excursions:

• Aswan Sightseeing Tour that includes all the famous landmarks of Aswan like Phiale temple, Unfinished Obelisk, High Dam and botanical garden.
• Day Trip to Abu Simble from Aswan was also the best excursion that enhanced your historical trip in Egypt.
• Felucca Boat tour at night on a traditional boat which offers the sunset view.
• Horse Carriage ride in a city to enjoy the vibrant views of the city along nile.
• Visit to Nubian village along the Nile which makes your trip colorful.
• There is also an option of a 4 day Nile cruise during your vacations that starts from Aswan covering all sights of Aswan and Luxor. 

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Excursions From Aswan

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Tips for traveling in Aswan:

• You can reach Aswan through a Nile cruise, flight, car or by train.
• Online taxi services like uber and metro are available in the city but the best option is to book a trusted company transportation service.
• There are a lot of hotel/ accommodation options from luxury to normal apartments but you should book before your visit.
• Keep cash of local currency with you while shopping or your visit to small shops.

Conclusion

Aswan has an important role in egypt as its a bridge in between the ancient egyptian and african culture. There are ancient landmarks, museums , natural botanical gardens and islands along the Nile that make Aswan unique.