Bahariya Oasis is one of the most beautiful oases of Egypt. It is located in the Western Desert, 370 km north of Cairo. It belongs to the Giza Governorate.
The history of Bahariya Oasis:
Bahariya Oasis is divided into two Arabic words meaning the northern oasis in the English language. During the ancient Egyptian civilization, it was known by two names (Djesdjes) and (wḥt-mḥtt).
Bahariya Oasis was an important stopping point on the trade route between the Western Desert and the Nile Valley. Its importance increased during the Greco-Roman period because it was the center for the production of many crops such as grains and dates and commodities such as olive oil and wine.
These days, more than 30 thousand people live in the Bahariya Oasis. Bahariya Oasis has economic importance as it is a place for iron mining and agriculture, such as guava, mango, dates, and olives. Also, it has tourist importance, as it includes many tourist attractions such as:
El Bawiti: The largest administrative center in Bahariya Oasis and is considered as its capital. El Bawiti city contains an Ethnographic Museum established by Mohammed Eid, one of the local artists in the oasis. This museum displays terracotta sculptures, Mohammed Eid’s paintings, and some things that represent the customs and traditions of the Bahariya Oasis.
Valley of the Golden Mummies in El Hayz: It was discovered in 1996 by archaeologist Zahi Hawass and his team. The history of the valley dates back to the Greco-Roman period. This valley houses 1000 well-preserved mummies.
Temple and chapels of Ain El Muftella: This site was discovered by the Egyptian archaeologist Ahmed Fakhry. It dates back to the 26th dynasty, the reign of King Amasis. The temple consists of 4 chapels, and its walls are decorated with inscriptions depicting the king making offerings to the gods.
The tombs of Zed Amun ef Ankh and his son Bennentui in the village of Qaser Salem: These tombs date back to the 26th dynasty. It was discovered by Ahmed Fakhry. The tombs are decorated with religious inscriptions, such as making offerings to the gods of ancient Egypt.
The White Desert: It is located on the road between Bahariya Oasis and Farafra Oasis, and it is divided into two deserts.
Ancient desert, where mushrooms and tents area.
The new desert that is distinguished by its limestone formations because, in the past, the desert was covered by the sea, so its rocks contain some seashells.
The Black Desert: It is located on the road between Bahariya Oasis and Farafra Oasis. The mountains of this desert are made of black rocks due to volcanoes.
you can visit Bahariya Oasis with DayTours 8 Days in Egyptian Oases