Disūq, Egypt
Region: Kafr el-Sheikh Governorate
Geographic Coordinates: 31.142200, 30.645000
Climate: Dry and hot climate with low precipitation, and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C throughout the year.
Population: 143404
Language: Arabic
Disūq is a small town located in the Kafr el-Sheikh Governorate of Egypt. It is situated on the western bank of the Nile River and has a population of around 100, 000 people. Disūq is known for its rich history, Beautiful scenery, And unique culture. One of the most significant historical landmarks in Disūq is the Mosque of al-Malik al-Adil Izz al-Din Aybak. The mosque was built in 1240 AD during the reign of Sultan Aybak and has since undergone several renovations. The mosque features stunning architectural designs, Including intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics that depict scenes from Islamic history.
Another notable landmark in Disūq is the Al-Qanater Bridge. This bridge spans over the Nile River and connects Disūq to other cities such as Cairo and Alexandria. The bridge was built during Ottoman rule in Egypt and remains an important transportation link to this day. Disūq is also famous for its fertile agricultural land, Which produces crops such as cotton, Wheat, Rice, Fruits, Vegetables, And sugarcane. The town’s location on the Nile River makes it an ideal location for farming activities as it provides a constant source of water for irrigation purposes.
The local market in Disūq offers visitors a unique shopping experience where they can find traditional Egyptian handicrafts such as pottery items made from clay sourced from nearby quarries along with handmade textiles like carpets or tapestries woven by skilled artisans who still use traditional techniques passed down through generations.
For those interested in exploring nature’s beauty while visiting Egypt should visit Lake Burullus National Park near Disuqq which covers more than 450 square kilometers area with lush greenery surrounded by water bodies where one can witness various migratory birds flying around making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers or nature enthusiasts. if you are looking to explore the rich history and unique culture of Egypt, Disūq is a must-visit destination. From its stunning mosques and historic landmarks to its fertile agricultural land, There is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming town.
Whether you are interested in shopping for traditional handicrafts or exploring nature’s beauty, Disūq has something for everyone.
- Disūq, Egypt is primarily an agricultural area with crops such as cotton, wheat, and rice being the major industries.
- Other industries include fishing and livestock farming.
- There are also some small-scale manufacturing businesses such as textile production and food processing.
- Additionally, there is a growing tourism industry in Disūq due to its historical sites and natural attractions.
- The Battle of Disūq: In 1801, General Jean-Baptiste Kléber led French forces into a battle against Ottoman forces under Ibrahim Bey near Disūq during the French campaign in Egypt.
- Al-Adil Kitbugha: He was a Mamluk sultan who ruled Egypt from 1294 to 1296 and is buried in Disūq.
- Ibn al-Qifti: He was an Arab historian born in Disūq during the 13th century who wrote several works on Arabic literature, including Ta’rikh al-Hukama (History of the Wise Men).
- Al-Nuwayri: An Egyptian writer who lived during the 14th century and authored Nihayat al-Arab fi Funun al-Adab (The Ultimate Ambition in the Arts of Erudition), considered one of the most important encyclopedias on Arabic literature, also hailed from Disūq.
- Sheikh Ali Gomaa: Born in Disūq, he is a prominent Islamic scholar who served as Grand Mufti of Egypt from 2003 to 2013 and has written numerous books on Islam and contemporary issues facing Muslims worldwide.
- Saint Abanoub: A Coptic Christian martyr believed to have been killed for his faith at a young age during Roman times, his relics are kept at St Abanoub Church located near Disuq.
- Mohamed Atta: He grew up in Disūq before moving to Cairo to study architecture; he later became one of the masterminds behind September 11 attacks carried out by hijackers from Al-Qaeda group against United States targets.
- Disūq Museum showcases the history and culture of Disūq and its surrounding areas.
- Al-Masjid Al-Kabir Mosque is one of the oldest historic mosques in Egypt, dating back to the 8th century.
- El-Sheikh Saad El-Din El-Shazly Monument honors a famous Egyptian military leader who played a key role in the October War of 1973.
- The Royal Palace of Muhammad Ali Pasha was built by Muhammad Ali Pasha, who ruled Egypt in the 19th century.
- The Old Market (Souq) is a traditional market offering goods such as spices, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- The Sabil-Kuttab of Sulayman Agha al-Silahdar served as a water fountain and school during Ottoman times.
- Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque is located in nearby Alexandria and is one of the most important religious sites in Egypt.
- Alexandria National Museum houses an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts and antiquities just a short drive from Disūq.
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina is another must-visit attraction in Alexandria that’s home to millions of books and hosts many cultural events throughout the year.
- The Roman Amphitheater at Kom el-Dikka dates back to Roman times with seating capacity for around 800 spectators; it’s an ancient amphitheater located near downtown Alexandria that’s worth visiting!
- Eid al-Fitr: A three-day festival marking the end of Ramadan.
- Moulid al-Nabi: Celebrated to commemorate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Sham El-Nessim: An ancient Egyptian spring festival celebrated on the Monday after Coptic Easter.
- Abu Simbel Sun Festival: Celebrated twice a year when sunlight illuminates statues inside Abu Simbel Temple.
- Luxor International Balloon Festival: A hot air balloon festival held annually in Luxor.
- Cairo International Film Festival: The oldest and most prestigious film festival in the Arab world, held annually in Cairo.
- Aswan International Women’s Film Festival: A film festival celebrating women’s achievements and empowerment through cinema, held annually in Aswan.
It is recommended to check local sources for up-to-date information on events and festivals happening in Disūq or other parts of Egypt as dates may vary from year to year due to religious observances or other factors that may affect scheduling of these celebrations.
- Mahshi – a traditional Egyptian dish made with vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, peppers or grape leaves stuffed with rice and spices.
- Fattah – a dish made of bread soaked in meat broth and topped with meat and garlic sauce.
- Kofta – grilled minced meat shaped into balls or cylinders served with rice or bread.
- Fish dishes – Disūq is located near the Mediterranean Sea; therefore, fresh fish is abundant in the area.
If you’re looking for great places to eat these dishes, here are some popular options:
- Al Quds Restaurant
- El Gomhoreya Restaurant
- Al Amin Restaurant
- El Khedewy Cafeteria
Please keep in mind that due to COVID-19 restrictions, some of these restaurants may have limited hours or services available at this time.
- Disūq Public Park is a popular gathering spot for families and friends to enjoy the outdoors. It features a playground, picnic areas, walking paths, and green spaces.
- Al-Mahrousa Garden is a beautiful garden located near the center of Disūq that features a variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can stroll through the garden or sit on one of its benches to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Visitors can take a boat tour along the Nile River from nearby cities like Alexandria or Rosetta to see some of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks.
- The Nile River is also popular among fishing enthusiasts who want to try their luck at catching catfish or tilapia.
- Several stables in Disūq offer horse riding lessons and guided trail rides through the surrounding countryside.
- There are several sports fields in Disūq where visitors can play soccer, basketball, volleyball or other sports with local residents.
- Visitors can attend cultural events such as music concerts, theater performances or art exhibitions at local venues like El-Salam Theater or El-Gomhouria Palace Museum in nearby Alexandria city center which is just 30 minutes away by car from Disūq town center.
