If you are looking for a country filled with rich history, look no further. Egypt may be known for its Ancient Civilization, but what about the rest of its past? The land itself has seen the rise and fall of many rulers, both Egyptian and non-Egyptians. Besides Ancient Egypt, one of the most noted historical points is the Royal Era. Egypt was ruled by many kings and queens, who built glorious palaces that still stand today. As you explore Cairo, you will see many that have been repurposed, but there are a few that you can still visit as historical sites. The three main ones in Cairo are the Manial Palace, El Baron Empain Palace, and Abdeen Palace.
Mohamed Ali Palace (Manial Palace)
This breathtaking Palace was built by the uncle of King Farouk, Prince Mohammed Ali Tewfik, between 1899-1929 and was occupied between the 19th and early 20th centuries. Prince Tewfik used design elements from the Ottoman, Moorish, and Persians. The Palace is filled with art, furniture, clothing, and manuscripts dating back to the Middle Ages.
– The main highlights of the Manial Palace include:
– The clock tower.
– The Sabil.
– The mosque.
– The hunting museum.
– The throne hall.
– The golden hall.
– Luscious gardens surround the exterior of the Palace.
The Manial Palace is open for public seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm.
El Baron Empain Palace
After undergoing renovations for two years, El Baron Empain Palace was opened to the public in 2020. Built between 1907 and 1911, it is one of the most famous palaces in Cairo due to its unique architectural design. Its owner, Edward Louis Joseph Empain, was a Belgian businessman.
The Palace is designed in a peculiar way for Egypt. It is inspired by Indian architecture. The Palace is surrounded by a large garden and consists of three floors and a rooftop, all of which are open to the public.
El Baron Empain Palace is open to the public seven days a week from 9 am to 6 pm.
Abdeen Palace and Museum
The Abdeen Palace is one of the most beautiful palaces in Cairo! It is filled with many unique pieces, some of which are adorned with pure gold. This Palace was built under Ismail Pasha’s ruling time between 1863-1874 and became Egypt’s official government headquarters. The garden was added by Sultan Fuad I in 1921. Today, it is home to a museum. The upper floors are inaccessible by the general public and reserved only for visiting foreign dignitaries. The lower floors house the museum, which include:
– The Silver Museum
– The War Museum
– The Royal Family Museum
– The Presidential Gifts Museum
– The Historical Documents Museum
Abdeen Palace is open every day of the week, except Fridays, from 9 am to 3 pm.
If you enjoy looking into the windows of the past and viewing the glorious and spectacular places that still stand today, you must visit these palaces on your next dive into history!
