Last Updated on August 16, 2022 by
A centuries-old civilization, pharaoh kings, mysteries and immense pyramids, Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. For the authors, Egyptian civilization is an inexhaustible source of inspiration. From Flaubert to Christian Jacq via Agatha Christie, this magical country has crossed all eras and is still today an object of fantasy for millions of enthusiasts around the world.
The greatest adventurers are unanimous on the beauty and importance of the country: Alexander the Great, Napoleon, Champollion, etc. All have a deep admiration for ancient Egyptian civilization. For history buffs, an Egypt tours is a must. Because despite the centuries, the singular magic of the country still fascinates, and its unsolved mysteries stimulate curiosity and imagination; the perfect board for writing great stories.
From Cairo to the Pyramids via the Nile Valley by Nile River cruise, discover the hidden treasures of ancient Egypt
To discover Egypt is to dive into a rich heritage dating back more than four millennia. Its capital Cairo is full of ancient treasures. Well sheltered in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the famous gold sarcophagus of Pharaoh Tutankhamun testifies to the power of kings at the height of this civilization. Egyptology enthusiasts will be amazed at the bust of Ramses and that of Amenhotep IV.
An organized trip to Egypt lasts forever. On the Giza plateau, just 25 km from Cairo, are the famous pyramids of Khafre, Menkaure, and the largest, that of Cheops. And of course, impossible to miss the legendary Sphinx and its gigantic measurements: 73 m long, 20 m high, and 14 m wide, majestic guardian of this magnificent place.
In the main cities (Giza and Cairo), you will enjoy a typical Egyptian lifestyle: working-class neighborhoods, large souks where you will find absolutely everything, cafes where you can enjoy mint tea or smoke shisha. You will be able to admire the architecture of the largest mosques in the world, and chat with the locals who are very welcoming and proud of their country.
After the city and the desert, Egypt’s other treasure is its river, the Nile. As you cruise aboard a cruise ship on its peaceful waters, you will better appreciate the beauty and natural wealth of the country.
A country that fascinated the greatest explorers in history
The Greeks and Romans were not mistaken. Having come into contact with Egypt through Alexander the Great who drove the Persian invader from the country, they literally marveled at the richness of this very special civilization. Thus, a cultural and religious interbreeding takes place over the centuries, even if much later, after having conquered the country, these same Greeks impose Christianity.
Originally from a small town in the Lot, Champollion found himself captivated by Egyptian treasures. He devotes his life to it and manages, thanks to the Rosetta Stone, to decipher the hieroglyphics. He is considered the father of Egyptology.
Egypt in literature: from Flaubert to Christian Jacq, including Agatha Christie and Asterix
Many writers have been inspired by the beauties of Egypt. Between mysteries, spirituality, desert landscapes and colossal buildings, Egypt has been the main subject of many works by author Christian Jacq who has devoted dozens of books to the land of the gods. Gustave Flaubert, in 1849, set off on a trip to the land of the pharaohs, a trip that lasted a year and a half. During his stay, he writes a journal in which he will note all the wonders of the country he has crossed. This was published posthumously in 1881 under the title Voyage en Egypt.
In the United States, it is the American author Elizabeth Peters who wrote very beautiful novels in which Egypt is the backdrop. We can also note the famous thriller of Agatha Christie, Death on the Nile, whose main character, the detective Hercule Poirot is known all over the world. And even in the comic strip Egypt has a place of choice thanks to the duo Goscinny and Uderzo, which features their characters Asterix and Obelix in the adventures of Asterix and Cleopatra.
Ancient Egypt is definitely an inexhaustible source of inspiration. And it’s a safe bet that it will inspire future generations for centuries!
