Latest news with #Pharaonic
Al-Ahram Weekly
12-07-2025
- Al-Ahram Weekly
The Rokn Farouk Museum in Helwan is safe and sound: Tourism Ministry - Tourism
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities denied recent rumours circulating on social media claiming that a fire had broken out at the Rokn Farouk Museum in Helwan. In an official statement, the Ministry affirmed that the museum is entirely safe and has not sustained any damage. The fire in question occurred at a plant nursery approximately two kilometres away from the museum and had no connection to the museum premises or its operations. The Rokn was initially opened by King Farouk, Egypt's last monarch, in 1942 as a family rest house on the Nile in Helwan, south of Cairo. It is a boat-shaped edifice with three floors and a basement that houses the kitchen and servants' quarters. The interior is decorated with Pharaonic motifs and furnishings. A replica of the Luxor and Karnak temples is situated on the balcony, while three replica mummification beds are displayed in the main hall. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
CairoScene
30-06-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Matrouh Figs, Grapes & Olives Registered as Local Heritage Crops
Egypt has formally registered figs, grapes, and olives from Matrouh as GI products, linking heritage to global markets and expanding protection for regionally distinct crops. Jun 30, 2025 Egypt has officially registered figs, grapes, and olives from Matrouh as geographical indications (GIs), recognising their unique local characteristics and reinforcing efforts to connect agricultural products with regional heritage. The move was announced during a session on agricultural GIs held on the sidelines of the 6th EU-Africa Agriculture Ministers Conference in Rome. The registration of the three crops was presented as a result of the Integrated Rural Development Project in Matrouh, implemented in partnership with the European Union. Egypt has placed growing emphasis on protecting and registering products tied to specific regions and traditional farming methods, aiming to boost their competitiveness on international markets, particularly within the European Union. A unique visual trademark, inspired by Pharaonic design, has been developed for each registered product to support branding and readiness for export. A national committee has been formed to manage the registration and protection of GI products, while the intellectual property rights portfolio has been transferred to the National Intellectual Property Authority, now operating under the Prime Minister's Office to streamline governance.
See - Sada Elbalad
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Mohamed Mounir.. Malamehna
Elham Aboul Fateh Mohamed Mounir's latest song "Malamehna" came to delight us as usual with his songs that touch the soul and heart. After an artistic silence that lasted more than a year, the king Mohamed Mounir returns with his new song, "Malamehna." He says, "Every time we photograph our features... we aren't always who we are. Sometimes we appear calmer in the picture... and sometimes we appear alone in the gathering. Every time we bak-pats ourselves… we are slaughtered by memories. Every time we gather our wounds… our hearts ache." What distinguishes Mounir is that he doesn't just present songs, but rather creates entire worlds of emotions. In "Malamehna," we hear that magical blend of authenticity and modernity that we've always longed for. The melody bears the imprint of ancient Nubia, while the lyrics touch upon the space shared by all Egyptians and Arabs—the space of memories, identity, and belonging. Mounir is a son of great Nubia, the brown land that gave birth to an ancient civilization with roots dating back thousands of years. Nubia is not just a place, but a civilization and a human heritage, the land of Pharaonic temples, towering mountains, and the Nile River. This great cultural heritage is reflected in Mounir's voice, where in his tones you hear the echo of ancestors' hymns, and in his melodies you sense the antiquity and radiance of the land. The beautiful thing about Mounir is that, despite his global fame, he has always remained a simple, knows exactly how to speak to people using the language of the heart. In "Malamehna," we find that rare balance between artistic depth, simplicity, and authenticity, modernity. The song is like a reassuring message to his listeners: "No matter how times change, there will always be true art that speaks to the soul." Mohamed Mounir has a long and varied artistic history, "El Leila Ya Samra", "Shajar El-Lemon" "Younes", ",Hadota Masreya" "Fi Eshk El Banat"... Over the course of decades, he has shaped our artistic and emotional features. It's strange that I haven't seen him honored, even though the whole world has honored him in Germany, America, and elsewhere. But I hope that he would be honored, and that musical festivals will celebrate him, or that we will name a music hall after him, or that his house in Nubia will be turned into a museum. Mohamed Mounir shaped a new generation emotionally, and this return is an occasion to celebrate and honor an artist who has been sowing joy in our hearts for years. Mounir, who sang about love, homeland, and life, returns today to remind us that true beauty never fades, and that some voices remain immortal because they are simply a part of us. Welcome back, the King, and all appreciation to that voice that has become a feature of our character. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean News 3 Killed in Shooting Attack in Thailand
Zawya
12-06-2025
- Zawya
The economic power of food tourism in Egypt
In recent years, food tourism has become a major trend in global travel, reshaping how destinations attract and connect with visitors. Egypt, with its rich and diverse culinary heritage influenced by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African cultures, is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this growing trend. As international interest in food tourism reaches new heights, Egypt stands at a pivotal moment to showcase its distinctive flavors and culinary traditions. By embracing its food heritage and leveraging modern digital storytelling, Egypt can establish itself as a premier destination for travelers seeking authentic and immersive food experiences. The Emergence of Food Tourism Food tourism is traveling to experience the taste of a place in order to get a sense of its culture, according to the World Food Travel Association. Countries like Spain, Egypt, and India have gained attention for their rich food traditions, drawing in travelers seeking authentic and memorable experiences. Egyptian cuisine is one of the most distinguished in both the Arab world and the Mediterranean, celebrated for its unique flavors and deep historical roots. The country's culinary identity has been shaped by a rich tapestry of civilizations, including Pharaonic and Graeco-Roman, as well as the Byzantine, Coptic, and Islamic eras. Each has left its mark on Egypt's food culture. This diversity is further enriched by Egyptian Bedouin traditions. Bedouins have developed exceptional culinary practices using simple, time-honored methods such as firewood, heated sand, and clay ovens. Some signature Bedouin dishes include Mebaqbaqa and Kadid in Matrouh, Grisha in Sinai, and Asida across Bedouin communities. This is along with distinctive breads such as Tanour, Sag, and Qarasa. These dishes offer a glimpse into Egypt's remarkable gastronomic heritage, as highlighted in a Journal entitled 'Gastronomic Tourism as a Core Tourism Product for Augmenting Cultural Tourism in Egypt' by Ahmed Adel Hammad and Reham Mamdouh Abd El Maksoud. Recognizing, celebrating, and preserving these local food traditions is vital for Egypt's cultural tourism sector. However, the country has not fully capitalized on gastronomic tourism as a means to attract more cultural travelers despite the richness and uniqueness of Egyptian cuisine, as per the journal. Unlocking this potential represents a significant opportunity for Egypt to enhance its appeal as a premier destination for culinary and cultural exploration. The Rising Potential of Culinary Tourism in Egypt Egypt's food scene is rapidly gaining recognition among international travelers. They are drawn not only for its rich flavors but also for its ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences and offer authentic cultural experiences. Many visitors highlight how Egyptian cuisine serves as both a gateway to the country's heritage and a welcoming table for all. Paola Scarabotti, an Italian tourist, says: 'To be honest, I was not sure if it would be easy to find food I could eat in Egypt as a vegetarian. I also cannot eat gluten, but I was very curious.' 'I love discovering how different cultures make plant-based dishes, and Egypt has such a rich food history. I did a bit of research online and saw some TikToks and Instagram reels showing street food and traditional meals that helped me feel excited I would find options,' she adds. 'But the real motivation was wanting to connect with the local culture through food,' Scarabotti explains. 'I absolutely loved ful medames, it became my go-to! It is filling, naturally gluten-free, and full of flavor, especially with olive oil, cumin, and a bit of lemon.' She further elaborates: 'Taameya (Egyptian falafel) was another great surprise, being made with fava beans, instead of chickpeas. The herbs made it taste so fresh. I just made sure it was not served in bread. Also, the hibiscus tea (karkadeh) was a beautiful experience, especially when shared with locals. What stood out most was how generous people were in helping me find something I could eat.' Similarly, Anni Cree, a British tourist, found Egypt's culinary landscape both vibrant and accommodating, with a focus on freshness and authenticity. 'The quality was generally quite good. Everything felt fresh and full of flavor.' 'I had to be a bit cautious at times with my stomach. The variety was wonderful, from rich stews to light mezzes. There was something for everyone. As for authenticity, it does not get more real than being served a bowl of lentil soup by someone's grandmother in a tiny café,' Cree says. 'I especially enjoyed molokhia. It was unlike anything I had before. And the stuffed vine leaves were simply delightful. All in all, a lovely culinary adventure,' Cree points out. Food Tourism as a Catalyst for Economic Diversification Egypt's tourism revenues reached $8.7 billion in the first half (H1) of fiscal year (FY) 2024/2025, up from $7.8 billion in H1 FY 2023/2024, according to according to the Central Bank of Egypt's (CBE) latest report on balance of payment (BoP). Encouraging culinary tourism can further boost tourism's contribution to Egypt's economy. Ahmed Zayed, an economist, tells Arab Finance: 'Food tourism has the potential to become a major catalyst for economic diversification in Egypt's tourism sector.' 'While Egypt has traditionally focused on heritage and beach tourism, food tourism can tap into a growing global trend. Nearly one-third of travel spending is food-related. If Egypt attracts just 5% more from food-focused experiences, it could bring in an extra $600 to $800 million annually,' Zayed says. He adds: 'Egypt has a compelling opportunity to become a food tourism hotspot. With millions of family-run restaurants and food vendors across the country, there is already a solid grassroots foundation.' 'If we can better market our food culture through culinary festivals, branded food trails, or regional food tourism hubs, we could tap into the rapidly growing global food tourism market. This market is projected to reach $4.6 trillion by 2030. Capturing even 0.1% of that would mean billions in revenue,' according to Zayed. On the other hand, Zayed explains that culinary tourism stands out as an incredibly job-rich and inclusive form of tourism. It creates opportunities for a wide range of individuals, extending beyond just chefs and restaurant owners to include farmers, local producers, and artisans, especially in rural communities. For instance, experiences like farm-to-table dining or visits to date farms and olive groves can significantly boost rural incomes. This is particularly helpful for women and youth who are often deeply involved in traditional food preparation. In urban centers, culinary tourism has the power to revitalize older neighborhoods, drawing visitors to areas rich in food culture, much like the historic districts of Downtown Cairo or Alexandria. 'Globally, data shows that every $1 million spent on food tourism creates between 45 to 60 jobs. This kind of employment intensity is crucial for Egypt, where youth unemployment remains high,' Zayed points out. Egypt is at a promising crossroads where its rich culinary heritage can significantly enhance its tourism sector and broader economy. With centuries of diverse cultural influences shaping its distinctive cuisine, Egypt offers authentic and memorable food experiences that resonate with the growing global appetite for food tourism. As international visitors increasingly seek immersive and inclusive culinary journeys, Egypt can stand out by offering diverse dietary preferences and unique regional specialties. Beyond cultural enrichment, food tourism can drive economic diversification, job creation, and rural development, addressing critical challenges such as youth unemployment. © 2020-2023 Arab Finance For Information Technology. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Days of Palestine
11-06-2025
- Politics
- Days of Palestine
UN Committee: Targeting of Schools and Cultural Sites in Gaza Amounts to Genocide
DaysofPal – A United Nations international commission of inquiry has concluded that Israel's systematic attacks on schools, religious institutions, and cultural sites in the Gaza Strip constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity, including acts of genocide. In its newly released report, the committee stated that the Israeli occupation's deliberate targeting of Palestinian educational, cultural, and religious infrastructure has inflicted severe, long-term damage on Gaza's society, eroding not only its present but also its future. This destruction, the report argues, effectively undermines the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. The inquiry accuses Israel of having deliberately dismantled Gaza's educational system and damaged or destroyed more than half of its religious and cultural landmarks. These actions are part of what the commission describes as a 'relentless, large-scale assault on the Palestinian people,' during which Israeli forces have committed war crimes and genocidal acts. Judge Navi Pillay of South Africa, chair of the commission, emphasized in an official statement that there is mounting evidence of a systematic Israeli campaign to erase Palestinian existence in Gaza. 'This is not collateral damage — it is targeted erasure,' Pillay said. The commission was established by the UN Human Rights Council in May 2021 and tasked with investigating alleged violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territories. It comprises three prominent experts in international law and human rights. The findings come amid what observers are calling a deliberate campaign to eradicate Gaza's cultural and historical identity. In addition to military operations against civilian populations, Israeli forces have been accused of deliberately targeting cultural institutions such as museums, libraries, mosques, and churches. Gaza, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, is home to an archaeological heritage that spans multiple civilizations — Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic. These legacies are now under existential threat as Israeli airstrikes and shelling raze centuries-old structures and cultural treasures. The report also highlights the symbolic and strategic significance of this destruction. By wiping out the institutions that preserve Palestinian knowledge, memory, and identity, the occupation seeks to dismantle the cultural foundation necessary for any future Palestinian self-governance or national revival. This damning UN report adds to the growing chorus of international voices accusing Israel of employing genocide as a tactic of war in Gaza. The international community, however, remains divided over accountability, with several Western governments continuing to provide military and diplomatic cover to Israel despite mounting legal and humanitarian concerns. The commission has called for urgent international intervention to halt the destruction and protect what remains of Gaza's heritage, educational infrastructure, and civilian life, warning that inaction will only further entrench the mechanisms of genocide and cultural annihilation. Shortlink for this post:
