Culture
Egyptian culture dates back thousands of years to the ancient pharaohs and has been influenced by numerous invaders throughout history. Undoubtedly, this colonial footprint has mixed with the country’s rich tradition and shaped Egyptian culture as we know it today.
Gatherings based on food are, in fact, one of the main social pillars of Egyptian culture, with family gatherings around the round table taking center stage.
The menu mainly includes legumes and rice with onions, garlic and many spices. There is nothing better than feasting on delicious national cuisine such as foul, ta’miyah and koshari while enjoying the hospitality of the locals, whether in town or at a Bedouin camp in Aswan. Take a stroll along the Corniche in Zamalek and stop at one of the many Nile cruise ships.
Against the unbeatable backdrop of the city’s dancing lights and shimmering waters, enriched by a gentle breeze, authentic Middle Eastern dishes are served. If you have the opportunity to head north to Alexandria, seafood is right up your alley. The Mediterranean Sea is just inches away, and saltwater fish and shellfish are a dime a dozen. Choose your fish and your preferred method of preparation, and enjoy a seat by the window where you can watch the small boats coming in and out of the harbor as the sun sets over the Mediterranean in the distance.
Egypt is also known for its captivating entertainment program. Belly dancing, or oriental dance as it is officially known, has long been a part of Egyptian culture and permeates all facets of life, from cabarets to the most extravagant weddings. These cultural performances extend to the whirling dervishes of the Sufis and the famous Tanoura. Originally a means of attaining a higher spiritual consciousness, this display of dazzling, colorful skirts spinning to the hypnotic pulse of music is guaranteed to captivate. Egyptians’ love of the performing arts even goes so far as to stage live Arabic music concerts in the vaulted halls of the Cairo Opera House and the Sayed Dervish Theater in Alexandria, where the beat of the tablah, or drum, reverberates to the depths of the bones.
In tune with the oriental rhythm, Egyptians speak Arabic, the official language. While Standard Modern Arabic is used on television, in government speeches, and in educational institutions, Egyptian “colloquial” Arabic is the common form that is generally understood, especially in the Middle East because of Egypt’s role in the film industry. Within Egyptian Arabic, there are a number of different dialects that are still fairly recognizable, but show some variation. The Bedouins in the Sinai have their own dialect, which is different from that spoken in the western desert. There are also smaller language groups such as the Nubians, who speak Eastern Sudanese languages, and other minorities such as Greek and Armenian, which have undoubtedly dwindled over time.
Similar to the official language, Egyptians throughout the country share a very similar trait: their friendliness. Egyptians are a very warm, sociable people who are always ready to strike up a conversation. They will offer you directions or help whether you have asked for it or not, and they will do whatever it takes to get you where you need to go. If you are invited to an Egyptian’s home for a snack or a six-course meal, do not expect to finish your plate so quickly, as your generous hosts may refill faster than you can eat. If you really want to experience Egypt, be sure to mingle with the locals to experience the meaning of the phrase “a home away from home.”
Egyptian culture has so much to offer both locals and visitors who want to experience its charm. Whether you are interested in ancient history or simply looking for an adventure, this place and its people are sure to captivate you.
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