Egypt is full of ancient mysteries and wonders that have captivated people for centuries. Egypt is home to some of the most well-known landmarks in the world, like the beautiful pyramids and grand temples. The ancient Egyptians were very smart and creative, and these fantastic structures are proof of that. In this blog post, we’ll take a virtual tour of famous landmarks in Egypt, that have stood the test of time and still amaze people worldwide.
We will talk about these landmarks’ history, architecture, and cultural significance, which will help you understand and appreciate their beauty and complexity more. We will start our trip by seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the famous pyramids of Giza. Since the Middle Ages, these tall buildings have been shrouded in mystery, and we will examine the fascinating history and theories about how they were built.
Next, we’ll go to the beautiful temple complex of Karnak, one of the world’s largest religious sites. Here, we will be amazed by this great site’s beautiful statues, tall columns, and intricate carvings.
You will find more detailed information in our related article Discover Egypt
Top 14 Famous Landmarks in Cairo, Egypt
1- Famous Landmark in Egypt: Great Pyramids of Giza
The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the world’s most iconic and mysterious landmarks. They were built as tombs for the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom of ancient Egypt, between 2600 and 2500 BC.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of the ancient Egyptians. They also serve as a powerful reminder of the power and wealth of the Pharaohs.
In addition to the three pyramids, the Giza pyramid complex includes several other monuments, such as the Sphinx, the Valley Temple, and the Corridor. The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are genuinely one of the most impressive and impressive artificial structures in the world. It is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Egyptians, and it continues to fascinate and amaze people from all over the world today.
2- Landmarks in Ancient Egypt: The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza is a limestone statue of the Reclining Sphinx, a mythical creature with a human head and a lion’s body. Facing directly from west to east, it is located on the Giza Plateau on the west bank of the Nile River in Giza, Egypt. The face of the Sphinx appears to represent Pharaoh Khafre.
The Sphinx has been a source of magic and mystery for centuries. Its exact purpose is unknown, but it is believed to have been a guardian of the pyramids of Giza and a symbol of royal authority. The Sphinx was also associated with the sun god Ra and the god of the horizon, Horus.
Today, the Great Sphinx of Giza is one of Egypt’s most popular tourist attractions. It is an awe-inspiring sight and a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Egyptians.
The Great Sphinx of Giza is a genuinely magnificent monument and one of the most enduring secrets of the ancient world. It is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Egyptians and continues to fascinate and amaze people worldwide.
3- Egypt Landmarks: Grand Egyptian Museum
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is an archaeological museum under construction in Giza, Egypt, about 2 kilometers (1.2 mi) from the Giza pyramid complex. When completed, it will be the most significant archaeological museum in the world, dedicated to the history and culture of ancient Egypt.
The Great Pyramid of Giza inspired the design of the Grand Egyptian Museum. The main entrance to the museum is a large lobby topped with a glass pyramid. The atrium will lead to a series of galleries, which will be organized chronologically and thematically.
The Grand Egyptian Museum is a long-awaited project expected to revolutionize how ancient Egypt is presented to the world. Once it opens, it will be one of the most important museums in the world and a must-see for any visitor to Egypt.
4- Landmarks of Ancient Egypt: Djoser’s Step Pyramid
The Step Pyramid of Djoser is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations. It is a fine example of ancient Egyptian architecture and engineering and provides important insights into the funerary beliefs and practices of the time.
The pyramid is the central feature of a vast funerary complex in an enormous courtyard surrounded by structures and ceremonial decorations. Its architect was Imhotep, the pharaoh’s advisor and high priest of the god Ra.
The Step Pyramid is one of the important landmarks in the history of Egyptian architecture. It is the first known pyramid to be built and represents a significant step forward in the development of stone construction.
5- Famous Landmarks in Egypt: The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) is a large museum located in Old Cairo, a district of Cairo, Egypt. It is the first of its kind in Egypt and the Arab world. It presents the full scope of the richness and diversity of Egyptian civilization throughout the ages, from prehistoric times to the present day.
The museum’s exceptional collection includes over 50,000 artifacts, including the royal mummies of 22 pharaohs and queens. The mummies are displayed in a new interactive show using the latest 21st-century technologies to enter under the covers and reveal their secrets, highlighting the rituals and religious beliefs surrounding mummification in ancient Egypt.
6- Egypt Famous Landmarks: Old Cairo
Old Cairo is a historic area in Cairo, Egypt, which includes the site of a Roman-era fortress, the Christian settlement of Coptic Cairo, and the Muslim-era settlements pre-dating the founding of Cairo proper in 969 AD. It is part of what is referred to as Historic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
7- Landmarks Egypt: Al-Muizz Street
Al-Moez Street is a main north-south street in the historic walled city of Cairo, Egypt. It is one of Cairo’s oldest streets, dating back to the founding of the town (not counting the former Fustat) by the Fatimid dynasty in the 10th century, under their fourth caliph Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah (after whom the street is named). Historically, it was the city’s most important artery and was often called the Kasbah (or Kasbah).
Al-Muizz Street is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest open-air museum of Islamic architecture. The street has various historical monuments and buildings, including mosques, schools, shrines, and markets. Among the most prominent archaeological landmarks on Al-Muizz Street are the following:
8- Egypt’s Landmarks: Ibn Tulun Mosque
Ibn Tulun Mosque is one of the famous ancient mosques in Cairo. It was built by Ahmed Ibn Tulun, the governor of Egypt during the era of the Abbasid faith, between 876 and 879. The mosque was located in the Sayyida Zeinab neighborhood, one of the largest mosques in Cairo.
Ibn Tulun Mosque is distinguished by its unique design, combining Abbasid, Persian, and ancient Egyptian architectural elements. The mosque has a large courtyard with arcades and a sizeable mid-century altarpiece. It also contains a towering, 82-metre-high flourishing mosque.
Ibn Tulun Mosque is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Cairo. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
9- Famous Landmarks in Cairo Egypt: Cairo Tower
The Cairo Tower is a 187 m (614 ft) tall free-standing concrete tower in Cairo, Egypt. It is one of the well-known modern monuments in Cairo and is sometimes considered the second most famous landmark in Egypt after the Pyramids of Giza. It is located in the Gezira area on Gezira Island in the Nile River, near downtown Cairo.
The tower is inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol of ancient Egypt, and consists of 8 million mosaic rhombuses. It has a revolving restaurant at the top, which offers beautiful views of the city and the monuments.
The Cairo Tower is a popular tourist destination and a must-see for anyone visiting Cairo.
10- Egypt Landmark: Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque is a truly unique and special place. It is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, an educational center, and an active area of worship. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Cairo.
Al-Azhar Mosque is a popular tourist destination, but it is also an active place of worship. Visitors to the mosque are asked to dress respectfully, and women must cover their heads.
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most important Islamic sites in the world, and its Sheikh is considered the highest religious authority among Egyptian Muslims. The mosque also includes one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, Al-Azhar University.
11- Landmarks of Egypt: Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali Mosque, also known as Alabaster Mosque, is located in the Cairo Citadel in Egypt. Muhammad Ali Pasha ordered its construction between 1830 and 1848, and it is considered one of Cairo’s most prominent landmarks. The mosque was built in memory of his eldest son, Tosun Pasha, who died in 1816. The mosque is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Cairo. It is renowned for its Ottoman architecture and twin minarets, which are the tallest in Egypt and have an alabaster interior.
12- Important Landmarks in Egypt: Salah El-Din Citadel
Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi Citadel is a historical Islamic castle in Cairo, Egypt. It was built by Saladin Al-Ayyubi and developed by subsequent kings of Egypt. It was the seat of government in Egypt and the seat of its rulers for nearly 700 years from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The castle is located on a hill of Mount Mokattam near central Cairo, providing a strategic location overlooking the city and dominating the city skyline.
Saladin built it between 1176 and 1183 to protect Cairo from the Crusaders’ attacks and provide a secure ruling center for his new regime. It also emulates a feature of many Syrian cities, such as Damascus and Aleppo, which had walled castles serving as centers of power that Saladin was familiar with.
Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi Citadel is one of Cairo’s most important tourist attractions. It is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
13- Egyptian Landmarks: Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Located in the heart of historic Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar is a bustling and charming market that has been a focal point of Egyptian trade and commerce for centuries. Stepping into this labyrinthine bazaar is like stepping into a time machine, with its narrow, winding lanes, aromatic scents of exotic spices, and kaleidoscopes of vibrant colors from its countless stalls.
The bazaar dates back to the 14th century and offers a rich tapestry of Egyptian culture and a treasure trove of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional goods. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the cultural vitality of Egypt.
14- Major Landmarks in Egypt: Egyptian Museum of Antiques
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is the largest in Africa and contains the world’s most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities. It was founded in 1902 in the heart of Cairo, Tahrir Square. The museum houses over 120,000 objects, with a representative amount on display.
The museum’s collection extends from the Predynastic to the Greco-Roman era and includes numerous artifacts, including statues, sarcophagi, jewelry, and papyri. Among the most famous pieces in the collection are the Treasure of Tutankhamun, the Narmer Stela, and the figures of the great kings Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.
Read more about Cairo City in our related article: Things To See in Cairo
Top 4 Famous Landmarks in Luxor
15- Famous Landmarks of Egypt: Karnak Temple Complex
The Karnak Temple Complex is an extensive collection of temples, chapels, towers, and other buildings in Luxor, Egypt. It is the largest religious complex ever built and was dedicated to the ancient Egyptian gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu.
Construction at Karnak began in the Middle Kingdom (around 2000 BC) and continued for over 1,500 years. The complex consists of several temples dedicated to different gods or goddesses. The most important temple is the Temple of Amun Ra, the largest religious building ever built.
The Karnak Temple Complex is one of Egypt’s most essential and impressive archaeological sites. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that millions of tourists visit annually.
16- Famous Egyptian Landmarks: Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is a large ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile River in the city known today as Luxor (ancient Thebes) and was built around 1400 BC. It was known in Egyptian as ipet resyt, meaning “southern sanctuary.” One of the two main temples was on the east bank, the other being the Karnak Temple. Unlike other temples in Thebes, Luxor Temple is not dedicated to a cult god or a deified version of the pharaoh upon death.
Luxor Temple was the main venue for the annual Opet Festival, a prominent religious celebration marking the reunification of the god Amun with his wife Mut and their son Khonsu. During the festival, statues of the three gods were transported from their temples in Karnak to Luxor Temple in a large procession.
Luxor Temple is an imposing monument and one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors can explore the temple’s many courts, halls, and rooms and admire the well-preserved reliefs and inscriptions. The temple is also a great place to watch the sunset as the stones glow in the golden light.
17- Famous Landmarks Egypt: Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a valley in Egypt where rock-cut tombs of the pharaohs and powerful nobles were excavated under the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt over approximately 500 years from the 18th to the 20th Dynasty.
The valley was chosen as a royal burial ground because it was isolated and difficult to access, making it less vulnerable to tomb robbers. The tombs were also carefully hidden in the cliffs and hidden by natural features.
The tombs of the Valley of the Kings are richly decorated with frescoes and reliefs depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology and the afterlife. The tombs also contain a wealth of funerary possessions, such as furniture, jewelry, and weapons, which were buried with the pharaohs to assist them on their journey to the afterlife.
The Valley of the Kings is one of Egypt’s most famous tourist destinations. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
18- Landmark of Egypt: Temple of Hatshepsut
The Temple of Hatshepsut is a funerary temple built during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut of the Eighteenth Dynasty in Egypt. It is located opposite the city of Luxor and is considered a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Its three massive terraces rise above the desert floor and reach the slopes of Deir el-Bahari.
The temple was built on the face of the cliff and consists of three terraces rising above the desert floor. A wide ramp reaches each mastaba, and the walls are decorated with carvings depicting scenes from Hatshepsut’s life and reign and images of gods and goddesses.
The temple was designed by Hatshepsut’s chief architect, Senenmut, and is believed to have taken about 15 years to build. It was completed in about 1458 BC, shortly before Hatshepsut’s death.
Hatshepsut’s temple was dedicated to the god Amun, and it is believed that Hatshepsut hoped she could join him in the afterlife. However, her successor, Thutmose III, destroyed many of her images and inscriptions after her death to erase her from history.
Read more about Luxor City in our related article: Things To Do in Luxor
Best 6 Tourist Attractions in Aswan
19- Famous Egypt Landmarks: Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam is a rock-fill dam at the Nile River’s First Cataract, 13 kilometers south of Aswan, Egypt. It is the 11th largest electrical power plant and one of the world’s most giant earthen dams. The dam was finished in 1970 and opened to the public in 1971.
Egypt’s business and culture considerably changed because of the Aswan High Dam. It has helped farmers grow more crops, lessen the damage from flooding, and make energy. However, the dam has also been blamed for social and natural issues, such as forcing people to move and the spread of diseases that live in the water.
20- Landmarks in Egypt: Nubian Village
A visit to a Nubian village is a great way to learn about the unique culture of the Nubian people. It is also a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of southern Egypt.
Nubian villages are located in southern Egypt along the Nile River. They are known for their colorful houses, traditional dress, and unique culture. The Nubian people are descended from the ancient Nubians, who lived in the region for thousands of years.
One of the most popular things to do in a Nubian village is to visit a traditional Nubian house. These houses are typically divided into two parts: the public area for entertaining guests and the private area for the family. The public area is usually decorated with colorful carpets, cushions, and pillows. The private area is where the family sleeps, cooks, and eats.
21- Famous Landmarks in Egypt: Abu Simbel Temples
Abu Simbel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Egypt’s most impressive archaeological sites. It is located in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan, and is home to two massive rock-cut temples built by the pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. The temples are dedicated to Ramses II himself and his queen Nefertari and are considered masterpieces of ancient Egyptian architecture.
The temples are carved into the face of a sandstone cliff and are flanked by four colossal statues of Ramses II, each over 60 feet tall. The entrance to the Great Temple is flanked by two more statues of Ramses II, seated on thrones. The temple’s interior is decorated with reliefs depicting Ramses II’s military victories and religious ceremonies.
22- Egypt Important Landmarks: Edfu Temple (Temple of Horus)
Edfu Temple is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt and a must-see for any visitor to the country. It is dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus and was built during the Ptolemaic period between 237 and 57 BC. The temple is located in Edfu, on the west bank of the Nile River, about 120 kilometers south of Luxor.
23- Landmarks of Ancient Egypt: Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo Temple is a unique double temple dedicated to the crocodile-headed god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Horus the Elder. It is located on a peninsula overlooking the Nile River, about 45 kilometers north of Aswan, Egypt.
The temple was built during the Ptolemaic period (305-30 BC) and is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. It is divided into two symmetrical halves, each dedicated to one of the gods. The two halves are almost identical, with entrances, courts, and sanctuaries.
One of the most striking features of the temple is its relief carvings. These carvings depict the gods Sobek and Horus, other deities, scenes from Egyptian mythology, and everyday life in ancient Egypt. Some carvings are still brightly colored, giving visitors a sense of what the temple would have looked like in its prime.
24- Landmarks in Ancient Egypt: Philae Temple
The Temple of Philae is an ancient Egyptian temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis. It is located on the island of Agilkia in the Aswan Reservoir, south of the Aswan High Dam in southern Egypt.
Philae was one of the most important religious centers in ancient Egypt, and its temple complex is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved in the country. The main temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis and is decorated with elaborate reliefs and hieroglyphs. The complex also includes several smaller temples and chapels, as well as a nilometer, which was used to measure the level of the Nile River.
Read more about Aswan City in our related article: Things to do in Aswan
Top 3 Tourist Attractions in Alexandria, Egypt
25- Famous Landmarks in Egypt: Alexandria Library
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, also known as the Library of Alexandria, is a modern reconstruction of the ancient Library of Alexandria, one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. It was founded in 1995 and officially opened in 2002.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a major center for learning and culture in the Middle East and North Africa. It houses a collection of over eight million books, periodicals, manuscripts, and other materials. The library also has several museums, including the Manuscript Museum, the Sadat Museum, and the Museum of Antiquities.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning, culture, and history. It is a beautiful and inspiring place that offers something for everyone.
26- Important Landmarks in Egypt: Pompey’s Pillar
Pompey’s Pillar, also known as the Pillar of Diocletian, is a 27-meter (89-foot) red granite column on a rocky hilltop in the middle of Alexandria, Egypt. It was erected in 297 AD to commemorate the Roman emperor Diocletian’s victory over the Persians and Nubians. The Pillar is one of the most iconic landmarks in Alexandria and a popular tourist destination.
Pompey’s Pillar is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into Alexandria’s rich past. With its stunning architecture and panoramic views, Pompey’s Pillar is a must-see for anyone visiting Alexandria.
27- Landmark of Egypt: Qaitbay Citadel
Qaitbay Citadel is an impressive 15th-century castle on the western tip of Pharos Island in Alexandria, Egypt. Sultan Al-Ashraf Saif Al-Din Qaitbay built it on the ruins of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The castle is a square-shaped structure with four towers and a moat. It contains a mosque, a museum, and several halls and rooms. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the castle’s history, including cannons, weapons, and armor.
Visitors to the castle can climb to the top of the towers to enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Alexandria. The court is also a popular place for fishing and swimming.
Read more about Alexandria City in our related article: Things to Do in Alexandria Egypt
Top 5 Hidden Gems in Egypt
28- Famous Landmarks of Egypt: Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis is an oasis in the Western Desert of Egypt, known for its stunning natural scenery, ancient ruins, and unique culture. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and authentic Egyptian experience.
29- Egypt Famous Landmarks: White Desert National Park
White Desert National Park is a national park in Egypt located in the Farafra Oasis. The park is renowned for its white chalk rock formations, created through erosion by wind and sand.
The White Desert is a truly unique and awe-inspiring place. With its otherworldly rock formations and starry night skies, it is a must-visit for any visitor to Egypt.
The White Desert is also home to various wildlife, including the endangered Rhim gazelle and the vulnerable Dorcas gazelle, Barbary sheep, jackals, Rüppell’s, red and fennec foxes, and the sand cat.
Visitors to the White Desert can enjoy various activities, including camping, hiking, sandboarding, and quad biking. A number of tour operators also offer day trips and overnight safaris to the park.
30- Landmark Egypt: Monastery of St. Catherine
Saint Catherine’s Monastery, officially the Holy Royal Monastery of Saint Catherine of Mount Sinai Holy and Tread by God, is a Christian monastery in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations.
The monastery was built around the site traditionally considered the site of the burning bush seen by the Prophet Moses. It also includes the “Moses’ Well,” where Moses is said to have met his future wife, Zipporah. To this day, the well remains one of the primary water sources in the monastery.
The monastery houses several important religious artifacts, including the Codex Sinaiticus, one of the oldest surviving manuscripts of the Bible. It also includes an extensive library of early Christian manuscripts and icons.
31- Major Landmarks in Egypt: Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a popular pilgrimage site for people of all three religions. It is also a popular tourist destination for its stunning scenery and religious significance.
The most popular way to climb Mount Sinai is to start at the Saint Catherine Monastery and hike to the summit. The hike takes about 2-3 hours and is moderately challenging. There are also several other routes to the forum, ranging from easy to complex.
At Mount Sinai’s summit is a small chapel and a mosque. There are also stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you plan to climb Mount Sinai, you must be prepared for the heat and the challenging terrain. It is also important to bring plenty of water and snacks.
32- Famous Landmark of Egypt: Ras Mohammed National Park
Ras Mohammed National Park is a protected area at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It was established in 1983 as Egypt’s first national park and is known for its stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and rugged desert landscapes.
Ras Mohammed National Park is a vital ecological and cultural resource protected by the Egyptian government. Visitors to the park must pay an entrance fee and are prohibited from collecting seashells, corals, or other marine life.
FAQs About Famous Landmarks in Egypt
What is the Most Famous Landmark in Egypt?
The Pyramids of Giza, particularly the Great Pyramid, are the most famous landmarks in Egypt. They are iconic symbols of ancient Egyptian civilization and are located just outside Cairo.
What are the Famous Landmarks in Egypt?
Egypt is home to numerous famous landmarks, including:
- The Pyramids of Giza
- The Sphinx
- Karnak Temple in Luxor
- The Valley of the Kings in Luxor
- Abu Simbel Temples
- The Egyptian Museum in Cairo
- Philae Temple in Aswan
- Siwa Oasis
- Alexandria Library
- Mount Sinai
What is the Oldest Landmark in Egypt?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara is the oldest landmark in Egypt. It dates back to the 27th century BCE and was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Djoser by his architect Imhotep.
What are the 7 Wonders of Egypt?
The concept of the “7 Wonders of Egypt” is not as commonly defined as the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. However, some significant landmarks often considered in such a list include:
- The Pyramids of Giza
- The Sphinx
- Karnak Temple
- The Valley of the Kings
- Abu Simbel Temples
- The Egyptian Museum
- The Temples of Luxor
What are the Top 3 Important Landmarks in Egypt?
- The Pyramids of Giza: The most iconic and well-known symbol of ancient Egypt.
- Karnak Temple: One of the largest temple complexes in the world, located in Luxor.
- The Valley of the Kings: The burial site of many pharaohs, including the tomb of Tutankhamun, also located in Luxor.
Conclusion and travel tips for seeing famous places in Egypt
Egypt is a great place to visit, especially if you like learning about the history and culture of the past. Egypt has many places to see, but these are some of the most well-known and important ones.
You can get a visa at any airport or border crossing with Egypt when you arrive (except Rafah). Before you go, it’s best to research what places are open when (some temples are only open during certain months), how long each site takes, and how long it takes to get from one place to another. You can find travel tips online or by asking people who live nearby!
If you’re going to Egypt, you should see these well-known places. They are lovely and will teach you about the country’s long history.
