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18 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 2 JUNE 2019 TRAVEL CAIRO, Egypt's capital city, is full of bustling streets, endless markets, a fas- cinating and vibrant culture, and more than seven million people. Cairo was es- sentially founded as a Muslim city in the 10th Century. Many of the oldest mosques and ma- drasas in the world can be found in Cai- ro. It is home to the country's primary international airport, which in turn means that most tours start and end in Cairo. Tourists can spend several days exploring this enchanting city and the many attractions as seen below. Pyramids of Giza No trip to Egypt is complete with- out time spent at one of the world's most recognisable tourist attractions. The monumental tombs are relics of Egypt's Old Kingdom era and were constructed approximately 4,500 years ago. Egypt's pharaohs expected to be- come gods in the afterlife. To prepare for the next world they erected tem- ples to the gods and massive pyra- mid tombs for themselves, filled with things they'd need to guide themselves in the next world. The three primary pyramids on the Giza plateau were built over the span of three genera- tions by the rulers Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. In addition to these major structures, several smaller pyramids belonging to queens are arranged as satellites. The shape of the pyramid was a solar reference, perhaps intend- ed as a solidified version of the rays of the sun. A camel ride is a must-do for every first-time Egypt traveller. Mount a camel during sunrise and ride it through the desert to the base of the Great Pyramid. There are also horses if a camel seems a bit intimidating. Egyptian Museum An ideal introduction to ancient Egypt, this museum houses the world's biggest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, 120,000 to be precise, in- cluding the contents of Tutankha- men's tomb, most of the mummies as well as their belongings that have been discovered since the 19th century. Be- fore you leave the museum, check out the tomb of Egyptologist Auguste Ma- riette (1821–81), a French scholar and archaeologist, in the eastern end of the garden. Mariette's work was signifi- cant in opening the field of Egyptol- ogy, bringing knowledge of this early civilisation to the West, while at the same time advocating for the right of the Egyptian nation to retain owner- ship of its own historical artefacts. Khan Al Khalili Bazaar and its surrounding areas Established in the 14th century, Khan El-Khalili, located in Islamic Cairo, has always been an important area for cultural and economic activities. The bazaar is loud, crowded, colourful, and exciting—famous for clothing, spices, traditional jewellery and perfumes. The items are of high quality which is part of the reason that this market has survived for so long. The mar- ket has several restaurants and cafés spread throughout where you can take a break from shopping. Al Azhar Park Al Azhar Park offers a 30-hectare expanse of greenery on what was dust and rubble from earthquakes, wars, fires, and urban reconstruction for over two centuries. In 1984, His High- ness the Aga Khan announced his plan to reclaim the wasteland and create a public park. Thus began a complex urban redevelopment process that spanned 20 years and included social and economic community regenera- tion, historic restoration, and the pro- vision of open space and recreational facilities. Gardens and pavilions en- hance the arrival point on the edge of the lake. Two readers have the chance to win a complimentary return ticket each for travel on any scheduled Air Malta flights (excluding taxes and charges). All you have to do is answer the question below and send in your name, mobile number and email address to: Maltatoday competition, Air Malta plc, Sky Parks, Malta International Airport, Luqa, LQA 4000. The closing date is 28 June 2019 Getting there Air Malta will start operating to Cairo on 1st September 2019 with one way Go-Light prices starting from just Eur71 inc taxes and charges Question: How often does Air Malta fly to Cairo? a) Once a week b) Twice a week c) Four times a week Mobile Number Name Email TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY Exploring the city of Cairo