Bibā, Egypt
Region: Bibā, Egypt is located in the Alexandria Governorate
Geographic Coordinates: 28.921800, 30.984400
Climate: Dry and hot climate with very little rainfall, with temperatures reaching their highest in the summer months.
Population: 385528
Language: Arabic
Bibā is a small town located in the Beheira Governorate of Egypt, Situated in the Nile Delta region. The town has a population of approximately 50, 000 people and is known for its rich history and cultural significance. Bibā was established during the Pharaonic era and has been inhabited ever since. One of the most notable landmarks in Bibā is the ancient temple of Bubastis, Which dates back to 945 BC. The temple was dedicated to Bastet, An Egyptian goddess who was believed to protect women and children.
The ruins of this temple are still visible today and attract many tourists who come to explore its fascinating history. Another significant attraction in Bibā is the Mosque of Al-Abd, Which was built during the Mamluk period (1250-1517 AD). This mosque features impressive architecture with intricate geometric designs on its walls and ceilings. It also houses a beautiful courtyard that provides visitors with a peaceful retreat from everyday life. The town’s economy primarily relies on agriculture as it lies within Egypt’s fertile delta region that produces crops such as cotton, Rice, Wheat, And fruits like oranges.
Additionally, Biba has some industrial factories producing textile products like clothes & carpets. Bibā also hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. One such festival is Sham el-Nessim which takes place every spring after Coptic Easter Sunday when people gather together to enjoy traditional food like Fesikh (salted fish), Colored eggs & onions as well as participate in various activities like kite flying & picnicking by Nile river banks.
In terms of transportation options available for traveling around Biba are buses or taxis; however many locals prefer bicycles or walking due to short distances between places within their community making it easy for them not having any traffic congestion problems. Overall, Bibā offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture, And natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins or experiencing local festivals and traditions, This small town has something for everyone.
- The Great Sphinx of Giza
- The Pyramids of Giza
- The Egyptian Museum
- Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
- Cairo Tower
- Al-Azhar Mosque
- Saladin Citadel of Cairo
- Saqqara Necropolis
- Memphis Open-air Museum
- El-Moez Street
- Agriculture: Bibā is renowned for its fertile land that makes it perfect for cultivating crops such as rice, wheat, corn, and vegetables.
- Fishing: Bibā has a thriving fishing industry due to its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea that supplies fresh fish to local markets.
- Small-scale manufacturing: Several small factories in Bibā produce goods such as textiles and furniture.
- Retail: There are numerous small shops and markets selling various products including clothing, food items, household products etc.
- Service sector: As with most towns there are also a variety of service-oriented businesses present such as banks and medical facilities catering to the needs of the community.
- The Battle of Raphia: In 217 BCE, the Seleucid Empire and Ptolemaic Kingdom fought near Bibā at Raphia. The Ptolemaic Kingdom emerged victorious.
- Roman Occupation: During the Roman occupation of Egypt, Bibā was part of the province of Augustamnica.
- Islamic Conquest: After the Islamic conquest of Egypt in 641 CE, Bibā became part of the Muslim world.
- Ottoman Rule: During Ottoman rule, Bibā was part of the Sanjak (district) of Gaza.
Notable people associated with Biba are:
- Sheikh Hasan al-Banna: Al-Banna was born in nearby Mahmudiyya and founded the Muslim Brotherhood organization in 1928.
- Ahmed Shawqi: Shawqi was an Egyptian poet who lived during the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is considered one of Egypt’s greatest poets.
- Muhammad Anwar El-Sadat: El-Sadat was born in Mit Abu al-Kum near Biba and served as President of Egypt from 1970 until his assassination in 1981.
- Temple of Hibis: This ancient temple is located in the town of Kharga and is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
- Al-Kharga Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Kharga Oasis, including artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.
- Bagawat Necropolis: Located near Kharga, this ancient cemetery contains hundreds of tombs dating back to Roman times.
- Qasr el-Ghueita: This well-preserved mud-brick fortress dates back to the 4th century AD and was likely used as a military outpost.
- Dakhla Oasis Museum: Located in Mut, this museum features exhibits on local history, including agriculture, crafts, and daily life.
- Deir al-Hagar Temple: This temple complex dates back to Ptolemaic times and features beautiful carvings and hieroglyphics.
- Al-Muzzawaka Monastery: This Coptic Christian monastery is located near Farafra and features stunning frescoes dating back to medieval times.
- White Desert National Park: This surreal landscape is filled with unique rock formations that have been eroded by wind and sand over millions of years.
- El-Qasr Village: Located in Bahariya Oasis, this traditional village features mud-brick houses that have been inhabited for centuries.
- Black Desert National Park: Another stunning desert landscape filled with black volcanic rocks that contrast beautifully with white sand dunes nearby.
- Moulid Abu El Haggag: This festival is celebrated annually to honor Saint Abu El Haggag.
- Ramadan: A month-long Islamic festival where people fast during the day and break their fast at sunset with a large meal called iftar.
- Eid al-Fitr: This three-day festival celebrates the end of Ramadan where families gather together for meals and gift-giving.
- Coptic Christmas: Celebrated on January 7th by Coptic Christians who attend church services, sing hymns, and exchange gifts.
- Sham el-Nessim: An ancient Egyptian spring festival that takes place on the first Monday after Easter Sunday where people celebrate by eating traditional food like salted fish, onions, and lettuce.
- Luxor International Film Festival: An annual film festival held in Luxor which is just a few hours’ drive from Bibā.
Note that this list may not be complete as there could be other cultural events or festivals that occur in Bibā throughout the year depending on local customs and traditions.
- Kebda Eskandarani: a dish made of liver cooked with onions and spices.
- Feteer Meshaltet: a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat.
- Mahshi: stuffed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
- El Abd Bakery: a popular bakery known for its fresh bread and pastries.
- El Khayam Cafeteria: a traditional Egyptian café serving tea and coffee along with light snacks like sandwiches and pastries.
- Al-Masryeen Restaurant: famous for its seafood dishes such as grilled fish and shrimp.
- Al-Farouk Restaurant: serves Egyptian classics like koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas topped with tomato sauce) and shawarma (meat cooked on a spit).
- Abu Shakra Restaurant: offers traditional Egyptian cuisine such as molokhia (a stew made from jute leaves) and pigeon stuffed with rice.
- Al-Azhar Park: A beautiful public park with stunning views of Cairo’s skyline.
- Gezira Sporting Club: This club offers various sports facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools, and a golf course.
- Dream Park: An amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages.
- Family Land: Another family-oriented amusement park with rides and games.
- Magic Land: A waterpark that offers fun water activities for visitors of all ages.
- Cairo Festival City Mall: A shopping mall that includes a variety of entertainment options such as cinemas, restaurants, and gaming zones.
- Wadi Degla Protectorate: A natural reserve that provides opportunities for hiking and bird watching.
- The Nile River Cruise: Visitors can take a boat ride along the Nile River to enjoy scenic views of the city’s landmarks while enjoying dinner or drinks on board.
Please note that some of these places may be closed or have limited access due to COVID-19 restrictions or other reasons beyond our control; it is always advisable to check before planning any visit/activity in any part of the world during these times.
