Az Zaqāzīq, Egypt

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Az Zaqāzīq, Egypt

Region: Ash Sharqia Governorate

---

Geographic Coordinates: 30.566700, 31.500000

Climate: Dry and hot climate with occasional rainfall in winter. Summers are extremely hot with temperatures reaching up to 40°C.

Population: 302840

Language: Arabic

---

Az Zaqāzīq is a city located in the eastern part of the Nile Delta region of Egypt. It is the capital of the Sharqia Governorate and is situated approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Cairo. The city has a population of around 300, 000 people and serves as an important economic hub for the region. The name Az Zaqāzīq means the blue one in Arabic, Which refers to a type of plant that grows in the area with blue flowers.

The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times when it was known as Bubastis, An important center for worshiping the goddess Bastet. Today, Visitors can still see remnants of this ancient civilization at several archaeological sites within and around Az Zaqāzīq. One such site is Tell Basta, An ancient mound that contains ruins from various periods including Pharaonic, Greek, Roman and Islamic eras. The site features impressive structures such as temples dedicated to Bastet and Osiris, Along with tombs and other artifacts from different periods.

In addition to its historical significance, Az Zaqāzīq also boasts several modern amenities including shopping centers, Restaurants, Parks and recreational areas. One popular attraction is Al-Azhar Park which covers over 30 acres and provides visitors with stunning views over the city skyline. Another notable feature of Az Zaqāzīq is its vibrant art scene which includes several galleries showcasing works by local artists along with regular exhibitions featuring international artists. The city also hosts cultural events throughout the year including music festivals where visitors can enjoy traditional Egyptian music alongside modern pop performances.

For those interested in exploring beyond Az Zaqaaziq’s borders there are many nearby attractions worth visiting such as Lake Manzala – one of Egypt’s largest lakes – which offers fishing opportunities or bird watching if you’re lucky enough to catch sight some rare species like flamingos. Overall, Az Zaqāzīq is a fascinating city that offers a blend of ancient history and modern amenities. Its rich cultural heritage, Vibrant art scene and stunning natural landscapes make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore Egypt beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

---

---

1. Al-Azhar Mosque
2. The Hanging Church
3. The Great Pyramids of Giza
4. The Egyptian Museum
5. Khan el-Khalili market
6. Cairo Tower
7. Saladin Citadel
8. Saqqara Pyramid Complex
9. Luxor Temple
10. The Valley of the Kings

---

• 1. Agriculture
• 2. Textile manufacturing
• 3. Food processing
• 4. Pharmaceuticals
• 5. Tourism
• 6. Government institutions
• 7. Educational facilities

---



Noteable History

1. Muhammad Ali Pasha, the ruler of Egypt, established the city in 1820.
2. During their occupation of Egypt in 1882, British forces took over Az Zaqāzīq.
3. Az Zaqāzīq was a crucial military base for both British and Ottoman forces during World War I.
4. The Egyptian Revolution of 1919 saw the city become a hub for nationalist activities.
5. Tawfiq al-Hakim, an Egyptian writer, was born in Az Zaqāzīq in 1898.
6. Umm Kulthum, an Egyptian singer, performed her first public concert in Az Zaqāzīq back in 1923.
7. Omar Sharif, an Egyptian actor studied at Victoria College located within Az Zaqāzīq.
8. The town is known for its cotton and textile production as well as traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery making.
9. In June 2015, a bomb explosion outside a courthouse caused three fatalities and several injuries.
10. Ahmed Salah Hosny El Sayed Eldesouky who won a silver medal at Rio Olympics (2016) in weightlifting belongs to this town.

---



Museums and Things To See

1. The Az Zaqaziq Museum
2. The Al-Azhar Mosque and University
3. The Benha University Campus
4. The Sidi Gaber El-Kommosi Mosque
5. The Al-Nasr Mosque
6. El-Salam Canal Bridge
7. El-Salam Mosque
8. Tanta Museum
9. Qalyub Museum
10. Banha Palace Museum

---



---

---



Cultural Events

1. Eid al-Fitr: This festival marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with family gatherings, feasting, and gift-giving.
2. Moulid al-Nabi: This festival celebrates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad and is marked by parades, music performances, and street fairs.
3. Sham el-Nessim: This festival is a spring celebration that has been observed for thousands of years. It involves picnics in parks or along the Nile River banks.
4. Cairo International Film Festival: This event showcases films from around the world and attracts filmmakers, actors, producers as well as movie enthusiasts from different parts of Egypt.
5. Luxor African Film Festival: Held annually in Luxor city since 2012 to celebrate African cinema through film screenings and workshops with international filmmakers.
6. Abu Simbel Sun Festival: A bi-annual event that takes place on February 22nd & October 22nd when sunlight illuminates statues inside Abu Simbel Temple at sunrise creating a spectacular visual effect attracting tourists from all over the world to witness this unique phenomenon.

Please note that these events may not take place every year or may be subject to change based on local conditions or government regulations due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions or other factors beyond our control; thus it’s advisable to check official sources for up-to-date information before planning any travel arrangements or participating in any public gatherings during these times.

---



Cuisine

Traditional Egyptian Dishes:

1. Koshari – a traditional Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta and tomato sauce.
2. Fattah – a dish made with layers of bread, rice and meat that is then topped with garlic yogurt sauce.
3. Molokhia – a stew made from the leaves of the jute plant served over rice.
4. Shawarma – grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.

Popular Restaurants in Az Zaqāzīq:

1. El Tawfiq Restaurant – known for its traditional Egyptian cuisine including koshari and molokhia.
2. El Farouk Restaurant – serves a variety of Middle Eastern dishes including shawarma and falafel sandwiches.
3. Al Bashaer Restaurant – offers local Egyptian dishes as well as international cuisine such as pizza and burgers.
4. El Darb Café & Restaurant – serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with an extensive menu featuring both Egyptian and Western dishes.

---



Parks and Recreation

1. Al-Azhar Park is a lovely public park situated in the heart of Az Zaqāzīq. It boasts beautiful gardens, fountains, and a lake.
2. Al-Shohadaa Park is a large recreational area that offers visitors playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
3. El-Salam City Park is perfect for families looking to spend quality time together. The park features boating on the lake, cycling paths, and even a small zoo.
4. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, El-Tawfikia Garden is an excellent choice with its walking paths and benches for relaxation.
5. Az Zaqāzīq Sports Club has something for everyone with various sports activities like football (soccer), volleyball courts, and swimming pool facilities available to enjoy.
6. Thrill-seekers will love Dreamland Aqua Park with its water slides and other exciting attractions.
7. For another serene garden experience head over to El-Nilein Garden where you can enjoy beautiful flowers & trees along with fountains & benches to relax in nature’s lap.
8. The Az Zaqāzīq International Stadium hosts various sporting events like football (soccer) matches that people can attend as spectators or participate in as players.

---



Its All About The Journey.

---