Of course, first of all, this country is known to tourists as a place in which there are cryptic and mysterious pyramids and tombs of ancient Egyptian kings and queens.Here is the Nile, the world's only river that crosses the entire Sahara desert.This ancient kingdom of sand, mountains and quaint antique intricate characters.
Culture of Egypt quite interesting and informative.One has only to start studying it, you'll understand: this process can capture so that you completely forget about the events taking place around.
Well, let's start from the beginning.
Unit 1. Culture of Egypt: the largest city in the country
Of course, it is impossible to talk about this country without mentioning such famous cultural and ancient centers as Alexandria, Aswan, Cairo, Luxor, Port Said, El Giza.Let's look at each of these in more detail.
Alexandria , first of all, is the main sea port of Egypt.Here come those who want to visit many monuments, take a swim in the gentle and warm Mediterranean Sea, as well as admire the huge ships and luxury yachts.
Aswan ... probably from the time of school do you remember about the existence of such a powerful hydraulic structure as the Aswan Dam.In addition, visiting Aswan, you should definitely visit the local botanical garden, the tomb of the medieval nobility, the country and the current Aga Khan Mausoleum.In his spare time, go for a memorable and stunning island of Elephantine its history or to the ruins of the monastery of St. Simeon.
Cairo , which now is integral with the once separate town Giza is the capital of the state.There the civilization of ancient Egypt appear before you in all its grandeur, because this is where tourists can go inside the pyramids and take a picture with the mysterious Sphinx.
Luxor .A small town in which there are such world-famous attractions such as the Karnak Temple, City of the Dead, Valley of kings and queens, as well as funerary temples known Egyptian rulers: Medinet Habu, Hatshepsut and Ramesseum.
Section 2. Culture Egyptian language, customs, traditions
Language .Generally accepted spoken language of Egypt is considered to be rather peculiar Arabic dialect of local origin.This mixture of several dialects, among which still dominates the kind of speech in Cairo.The official language is Arabic, but it is only spoken highly educated residents, who make up a small percentage of the population throughout the country.
Local customs .Of course, in many ways, if not - around the rhythm of life of Egyptians determines the Muslim faith.Guests of the country immediately striking features of national costumes, which are observed everywhere, and not only, as often happens in rural areas and tiny towns.Men in most cases put on loose-fitting white shirt, and a woman, on the contrary, dressed in black, and allow themselves to decorate a garment with lace.Egyptian head and hair hidden under a so-called higabom, but they do not wear the veil, therefore it is possible to see the face.
Religion. I guess I did not surprise you if I say that this country is quite religious.If you at least once able to go there, you probably noticed that the term "Egyptian Culture" implies, among other things, general prayer, which is performed five times a day.In big cities there are special speakers, through which the muezzin regularly urges all the faithful to turn to God.
Most Egyptians are Muslims, but in this country can be traced quite a rich history of Christianity.
Section 3. Culture of Egypt.National kitchen
Tourists usually characterized as the local dishes are simple, but at the same time is very hearty and nutritious.Everything here is mostly made from ripe fruits and vegetables.Very generously added a variety of condiments and spices.
In general, if we talk in general, for the country is characterized by the presence of two kitchens: the southern (more severe) and northern (relatively mild).
most favorite dishes of the local population are prepared with beans and called fulami.Meat Egyptians happy to eat the lamb, which can be cooked on the grill, STTS with vegetables, as well as in the form of minced meat added to other dishes.Eating pork is forbidden for religious reasons.
But local people with great pleasure prefers pigeon from which prepares excellent hammam, McShane (this bird stuffed with rice and spices and grilled over coals), as well as fish, which in most cases is supplied in conjunction with sweet peppers and tomatoes.
Egyptians - known sweet tooth.In any house, hotel or restaurant for dessert you will be offered a dish called menenas, which is a burger, cooked cinnamon, pistachios, almonds and figs, water is added to the dough previously insisted on orange flower.
