
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Suez, As Suways, Egypt
1. Pharos of Suez
Ancient lighthouse built by the Ptolemaic Kingdom to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Gulf of Suez.
- Unique Design: One of the tallest structures in its time, standing over 137 meters (450 feet) high.
- Historical Significance: Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a symbol of Egyptian ingenuity.
- Ruins Preservation: Remnants still standing after more than two millennia, providing insight into ancient architecture.
2. The Colossal Statue of Ramses II
A massive statue carved directly into the rock face at Abu Safa, depicting Pharaoh Ramses II.
- Size and Craftsmanship: Standing over 35 meters (115 feet) tall, it's one of the largest statues ever carved.
- Historical Significance: Showcases the grandeur and power of the Pharaoh Ramses II during his reign.
- Carved in Stone: Crafted directly into the limestone cliff, showcasing ancient Egyptian artistry and resilience.
3. The Alabaster Mosque
Stunning Islamic architectural marvel located within the Suez Fortress, featuring intricate alabaster carvings.
- Alabaster Material: Constructed almost entirely from alabaster, a type of limestone with a white or off-white color.
- Intricate Carvings: Decorated with elaborate geometric patterns and floral motifs, a testament to Islamic artistry.
- Historical Significance: Built by Khedive Ismail Pasha during the construction of the Suez Canal, showcasing Ottoman and Egyptian architectural styles.
4. The Sphinx of Ramses II
A massive sphinx carved from a single limestone rock, depicting the face of Pharaoh Ramses II and a lion's body.
- Size and Craftsmanship: Standing over 20 meters (65 feet) tall, it is one of the largest sphinxes in Egypt.
- Historical Significance: Symbolizes Ramses II's power and reign, standing guard at the entrance to his mortuary temple.
- Single-Stone Carving: Carved from a single limestone rock, demonstrating ancient Egyptian skill in large-scale sculpting.
5. The Mausoleum of Sheikh Yusuf
An ornate mausoleum built for the Sufi saint Sheikh Yusuf and his family in As Suways.
- Ornate Architecture: Features intricate geometric patterns and delicate floral designs, symbolizing Sufi spirituality.
- Historical Significance: Pilgrims visit the site to pay their respects to Sheikh Yusuf and seek his blessings.
- Location: Located in a peaceful oasis, offering visitors a tranquil and spiritual experience.
6. The Waterwheel of As Suways
An ancient waterwheeling system used to draw water from the wells in the oasis.
- Agricultural Irrigation: Used for irrigating farms and gardens, supporting local agriculture.
- Historical Significance: Demonstrates ancient technologies used to harness water resources.
- Visiting Opportunities: Offers visitors an opportunity to learn about and experience ancient irrigation systems.
7. The Tomb of Hammam Abd El-Basit
An elaborate tomb in As Suways, featuring a unique and colorful design.
- Colorful Design: Features bright and vibrant colors, contrasting with the typical white and sand-colored tombs.
- Historical Significance: Belonging to Hammam Abd El-Basit, an influential local figure who played a crucial role in the region.
- Architectural Style: Showcases a mix of Arab and Turkish architectural styles, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.
8. The Mastaba Tombs of As Suways
A series of ancient tombs located in the oasis of As Suways, featuring unique decorations and designs.
- Decorated Tombs: Featuring intricate paintings and carvings on their walls, depicting daily life in ancient Egypt.
- Historical Significance: Provide insights into the lives of ordinary Egyptians during ancient times.
- Location: Located in a serene oasis, offering visitors a tranquil and spiritual experience.
9. The Nile Dolphinarium
A unique attraction where visitors can observe and learn about the Nile River's resident dolphins.
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for the endangered Nile River dolphin species.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about these fascinating creatures and their habitat.
- Interactive Experience: Provides visitors with opportunities to interact with the dolphins in a safe and controlled environment.
10. The Straits of Tiran
A group of narrow straits connecting the Gulf of Aqaba with the Red Sea, famous for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Scuba Diving Opportunities: Offers excellent scuba diving opportunities due to the vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life.
- Historical Significance: Plays a strategic role in the history of maritime trade and military conflicts.
- Natural Beauty: Features some of the most beautiful and diverse coral reefs in the world.
11. The Sharm El-Musa Mosque
A modern mosque located near the Straits of Tiran, featuring a unique and striking design.
- Modern Architecture: Designed by renowned architect Rashad Said El-Mahdy, showcasing contemporary Egyptian design.
- Historical Significance: Serves as a place of worship for local residents and tourists alike.
- Location: Overlooks the stunning waters of the Red Sea, offering breathtaking views.
12. The Temple of Hathor at Daira
An ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor, featuring well-preserved carvings and hieroglyphs.
- Well-Preserved Carvings: Featuring detailed carvings and hieroglyphs that showcase ancient Egyptian artistry.
- Historical Significance: Serves as an important historical artifact, providing insights into ancient Egyptian religion.
- Location: Located in a peaceful desert setting, offering visitors a serene and spiritual experience.
13. The Amulet Factory at Ain Sukhna
A factory where traditional Egyptian amulets are handcrafted using age-old techniques.
- Traditional Craftsmanship: Uses traditional techniques to create amulets, preserving ancient Egyptian craftsmanship.
- Souvenir Opportunities: Offers visitors the opportunity to purchase authentic, handcrafted Egyptian amulets as souvenirs.
- Educational Experience: Provides insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs and practices surrounding amulets.
14. The Camel Market of Suez
A bustling market where locals buy and sell camels, offering a unique cultural experience.
- Cultural Experience: Offers visitors a glimpse into local Bedouin culture and traditions.
- Camel Trading Opportunities: Allows visitors to observe and learn about camel trading practices.
- Unique Photography Opportunities: Provides excellent opportunities for photographers to capture stunning images of the camels and market activities.
15. The Suez Aquarium
A marine aquarium featuring a wide variety of fish species native to the Red Sea.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about the diverse marine life found in the Red Sea.
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for various fish species and their habitats.
- Interactive Experience: Provides visitors with opportunities to interact with marine life in a safe and controlled environment.