Port Said, Egypt

One of the most architecturally interesting cities in Egypt, Port Said is located on the Suez Canal and is a vibrant, modern city with deep historical roots. An important Egyptian port.

History

In 1859, Port Said Egypt was just a camp for workmen building the Suez Canal. Much of the city was built on a section of Lake Manzala, which was reclaimed by landfill. Today, that camp, constructed by Said Pasha, is an important port city.

Now home to over 400,000 people, the city has been re-constructed several times. It was badly damaged during the Suez Crisis, and then twice more during the wars of 1967 and 1973. Today it is a very pleasant city. In fact, Egyptians consider it a summer resort. Indeed, the main beach is lined with vacation bungalows, even as the main street of town, Sharia Palestine, is largely composed of commercial enterprises.

What to See?

Just outside of town is where the huge ships wait to enter the Suez Canal; lined up far as the eye can see, this can really be something to see! Additionally, in the town center you will find colonial architecture from the 1800's. I mention this because for some reason folks tend to overlook this fascinating site.

If you love museums, one of the most interesting in the world is located on Sharia Palestine. It is the National Museum, and it houses many artifacts from both the Islams and the Copts, along with items from most periods of Egyptian history, including Pharaonic and even prehistoric times. You will see textiles, coins, manuscripts, and much more. In fact, there is even a separate room of artifacts from the Khedival family.

Another great museum with a slightly different theme is located on Sharia 23rd of July. The Military Museum houses artifacts from the Suez Crisis and the two later wars, along with some interesting displays of the Pharaonic and Islamic wars.

If you're looking for a lovely place to take a stroll, across the Canal you will find Port Fuad, really nothing more than Port Said's bedroom community, yet it is replete with sprawling residences and gardens among which to wander.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that The Statue of Liberty was originally slated to stand in Port Said Egypt? Yes, it's true. The statue was based on the huge statues at Abu Simbel.

The design of the statue was supposed to represent "Egypt carrying the light of Asia." However, when the sculptor, Auguste Bartholdi, learned that the Khedive Ismail was balking at the price, he happily sent it to the U.S., where it became known as the Statue of Liberty.

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