Gezira

Gezira formed naturally in the 15th century and wasn’t always inhabited; in fact, no one lived here until 1830 when Mehmet Ali, the founder of modern Egypt, decided that the north of the island would be a good place to build a palace. And so began the history of Gezira Island, which is currently divided into two districts: Zamalek, in the north, and Gezira, in the south.

Zamalek is the most residential, smart and sought-after; it’s filled with noble residences, and many have today been converted into embassies. A story dating from the beginning of the island’s history recounts that Viceroy Ismail Pacha built a summer palace here in 1869 to house part of his harem. However, history reveals that this wasn’t actually true, it was built to house guests who came to the opening ceremony of the Suez Canal, which was attended by public figures such as Napoleon III and his wife Eugénie de Montijo. In the 20th and 21st centuries, luxury residences have continued to be built, now following careful urban planning. Today, it’s one of the most expenses places to buy a home in Cairo.

Apart from elegant houses and embassies, Zamalek also has luxury stores, art galleries and first-class restaurants (with prices to match) that fit the socio-economic profile of Gezira Island’s residents. El Sawy Cultural Centre is well worth visiting; it’s under 15 May Bridge and puts on an excellent and varied programme.

Gezira, the other district, has plenty of green areas and important cultural and leisure spaces such as Cairo Opera House, housed in an impressive building, the Modern Art Museum, and the Mukhtar Museum, which displays a collection of sculptures by Mahmoud Mokhta, father of modern Egyptian sculpture. Another important stop in Gezira district is the Museum of Islamic Ceramics, located in the old Palace of Prince Ibrahim. It has a wonderful collection of pieces from different Muslim countries. If you’d like a great view of the area, ascend to the top of Cairo Tower – it’s 187 m tall and has a panoramic restaurant where you can eat and enjoy the spectacular views.

Green spaces on Gezira Island are plentiful and it has beautiful parks, areas for doing sports and even the Gezira Sporting Club. The Corniche Gardens are close to the opera house and are one of the most romantic places to go for a walk with your partner. If you’re travelling with children, make sure to visit Genenet El-Asmek, which has gardens with surprising desert plants, artificial caves and even an aquarium. You can reach Gezira Island by public transport and there is a metro stop next to Cairo Opera House.