History comes alive on a vacation to Cairo
2010-01-26
When explorers first listed the seven wonders of the ancient the world, the Pyramid of Giza was the oldest site on the list. It is - ironically - the only site from this ancient list that is still standing. Giza is one of the many historical landmarks one can visit on a trip to the Egyptian capital of Cairo.
Cairo is the largest city in Africa, and offers much to do and see for international travelers.
The biggest draw will undoubtedly be the pyramids located just outside of the Giza district. Visitors to the Necropolis will be greeted by three monolithic pyramids that were initially the burial grounds of the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure.
The site is now home to some of the best preserved artifacts in the world ranging from small statuettes and vases, to the Great Sphinx and the pyramids themselves.
In the center of the city is Islamic Cairo, home to a number of traditional and ancient mosques, temples and buildings from showcasing the country's medieval architectural feats.
Tourists staying at any of the luxury hotels in the downtown district of Midan Tahrir can experience a bit of history at the nearby Egyptian Hotel, home to the perennial exhibition of King Tutankhamen's treasures.