CAIRO TOWER Details

CAIRO TOWER

Cairo Tower is the most outstanding and solid structure after Pyramids of Giza. Built on Gezira Island, it is also known as El-Gezira and is one of the tallest structures in Egypt that gives skyline views of Cairo stealing breathe out of the body.

History

Cairo Tower was built from 1956 to 1961 during the presidency of Gamal Abdel Nasser with Soviet assistance. Affronted with US government’s attempt to bribe him, he chose to publicly rebuke the U.S. government by building the tower, which was 'visible from the US Embassy across the Nile River and is believed a taunting symbol of Arab resistance and pride'. The tower was designed by the Egyptian architect Naoum Shebib which became the tallest structure in Egypt and North Africa for 50 years.

However, during 2004 and 2009, it underwent 35 million of Egyptian pounds in renovation project which was later completed in time for its fiftieth anniversary in 2011.

Features

• • It is 187 m high partially open lattice-work design that broadens slightly at the top is intended to evoke a pharaonic lotus plant that represents Ancient Egypt.
• • The tower foots on the base of Aswan granite stones that ancient Egyptians used for monasteries and temples has a restaurant that rotates at an unnoticeable speed.
• • The tower has 16 floors and elevator that takes you to top in just about 45 seconds.
• • The views from Cairo Tower: Museum of Modern Art, panoramic view of Cairo, pyramids, Sphinx, Nile, Castle Salah-El-Din not to mention Azhar Park.
• • Best time to visit: At sunset, when millions of twinkling lights come to life.
• • You can capture these heart-stealing views with camera or video camera after paying for tickets and use telescopes for more pleasurable views during open hours between 9:00 am to 1:00 am.