Monuments And Ancient Sites In The Fayoum Oasis

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Will take you only 47 miles (76 kilometers) south of Africa's most populated city of Cairo where the oasis town of El Fayoum is located. The main attractions in this tranquil town are the wooden waterworks, yet another example of the ingenuity displayed by ancient Egyptian engineers. Originally named Crocodilopolis, then Arsinoe, and lastly Medinet El-Fayoum, it was the main place of worship of the crocodile god, Sobek. It is said that during ancient times, crocodiles were adorned with gold and fed honey cakes and meat by the priests. Of interest are the huge wooden waterwheels, another incredible engineering achievement by the ancient Egyptians, though less known than the mighty Pyramids. The waters of the Bahr Yusef are distributed throughout the oasis from Medinet El-Fayoum, the capital of the Fayoum. Approximately 200 of the great waterwheels are located throughout the oasis. The Seven Waterwheels, a Fayoum landmark, are surrounded by mangoes, palms, and willows. Enjoy a quiet and relaxing time on the beautiful lake Morris and enjoy the landscape surrounding the area, you can go on a felucca ride upon your request to explore the lake (additional cost).