10 fun and interesting Cairo facts

1. Half a Million in A Bustling Metropolis

Cairo is a bustling metropolis, with a population of around half a million people, making it the largest city west of China. This makes it a major hub of activity, with a wide variety of cultures, languages, and religions all living together in harmony. It is a city of great historical significance, with many ancient monuments and sites, and is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Cairo is a vibrant and exciting city, and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the culture and history of the Middle East.

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2. 200,000 people died in Cairo due to the Black Death

In the 14th century, Cairo was hit by the devastating Black Death, which killed an estimated 200,000 people in the city between 1348 and 1517. This was a particularly devastating period for the city, as the plague wiped out a significant portion of its population and caused widespread suffering and death. The Black Death had a lasting impact on Cairo, leaving it with a much smaller population and a legacy of fear and sorrow.

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3. Cairo - A City of Intricate Islamic Architecture

Cairo is a city of immense beauty and culture, and is often referred to as the 'city of a thousand minarets' due to its impressive Islamic architecture. The city is home to a plethora of minarets, which are tall, slender towers that are typically part of a mosque. These minarets are often intricately decorated with intricate designs and patterns, and are a stunning sight to behold. The city is also home to a number of other Islamic architectural wonders, such as the Citadel of Saladin, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. All of these structures are a testament to the city's rich Islamic heritage, and are a must-see for anyone visiting Cairo.

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4. Cairo experiences rare snowfall

In 2013, Cairo experienced a rare phenomenon - for the first time in decades, the city was blanketed in a form of snow known as graupel. This type of snow is made up of soft, white flakes that are smaller than hail and larger than regular snowflakes. It is created when snowflakes are coated with supercooled water droplets, which freeze on contact with the snowflakes and form a layer of ice around them. The sight of snow in Cairo was a surprise to many, as the city is located in a desert climate and rarely experiences snowfall.

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5. Cairo is the most 24 hour city

In 2011, Cairo was ranked the world's 'most 24 hour city' due to its bustling online activity at night compared to during the day. This is a testament to the city's vibrant nightlife, with locals and tourists alike taking advantage of the city's many attractions, from its bustling markets to its lively bars and restaurants. The city's online activity is a reflection of its diverse culture and its ability to provide entertainment and activities for all hours of the day.

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6. Cairo businesses relieved by midnight law postponement

In 2012, the Egyptian government attempted to pass a law that would have forced businesses to close at midnight in an effort to conserve energy. However, the proposal was met with much criticism and ultimately postponed. This decision was met with both relief and disappointment from the citizens of Cairo, as many businesses rely on late-night hours to stay afloat.

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7. Explore Ancient Egypt in Cairo!

The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo is a must-see for any history buff. It houses hundreds of thousands of ancient Egyptian antiques, including the tomb of the renowned Pharaoh Tutankhamun. This incredible collection of artifacts spans from the Pre-Dynastic period to the Greco-Roman era, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. From the iconic golden death mask of Tutankhamun to the intricate hieroglyphic carvings of the Great Sphinx, the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities is a treasure trove of ancient history.

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8. Air Pollution Kills Thousands in Cairo

Cairo is a city of immense beauty and culture, but it is also a city of immense danger. Every year, an estimated 10,000 to 25,000 people in Cairo die due to air-pollution. This is a staggering number, and it is a tragedy that so many lives are lost due to the city's poor air quality. The air-pollution in Cairo is a serious problem that needs to be addressed in order to protect the health and safety of its citizens.

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9. Cairo's Mosque of Ibn Tulun is a remarkable site

The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is a remarkable testament to Cairo's rich history, having been built in 876-879 AD - making it the oldest mosque in its original form in the city. Not only is it a remarkable historical site, but it is also one of the largest mosques in Cairo, with its impressive minarets and intricate architecture. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the city, and a reminder of the city's long and fascinating history.

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10. The bustling capital of Egypt

Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is known by many names. Its official name, Al-Qahirah, translates to 'the vanquisher' or 'the conqueror', reflecting its long and storied history as a major center of power. But it is also affectionately known as 'Umm al-Dunya', which means 'the mother of the world', a testament to its importance as a cultural and economic hub.