Museum of Tatra

Tatra Museum was established to honor the achievements of Titus Chałubiński Warsaw physician, scholar and great lover of the Tatra Mountains and mountain culture. The oldest collections, which consisted of collections: botanical, geological, zoological and ethnographic and beginning the library were collected as gifts and buy whole collections from private collectors.

In the years before the First World War, the museum still gathered donations and bequests of funds for the construction of a brick museum building and enlarging the museum collections. In 1911, the museum has adopted to implement the plans drawn up by architect Franciszek Mączyński. Mączyński project has been criticized by Stanisław Witkiewicz, the creator of Zakopane style. As a result, the project of building in Zakopane style according to the concept of Stanislaw Witkiewicz developed Franciszek Mączyński.

The construction of the new building began in 1913. The outbreak of World War I interrupted the work. It was finished in 1920. The opening ceremony of the Tatra Museum was the summer of 1922. The new building opened to the public two exhibitions: ethnographic on the ground floor  and natural on the first floor. Director of the museum was Juliusz Zborowski. Greatly increased the library collections and gained for it valuable collection.

The period of World War II, Tatra Museum successfully survived without major losses, and after the war, in 1950, was nationalized. With more jobs and financial stability can begin a systematic field research and development of collections. He could also arise third division collector - artistic and historical and conservation workshop.

Juliusz Zborowski led the Tatra Museum until 1965. In the seventies was established department heritage protection, dealing with the renovation of historic buildings, located within the statutory activities of the Museum.

In the main building of the Tatra Museum are permanent exhibitions showing the history of the region and the richness of the culture and nature of the Tatras.

• historical

• ethnographic

• nature

Historical exhibition consists of photographs, archival materials and publications - tells the story of Zakopane and the surrounding area. Subsequent parts of the exhibition show the development of Zakopane from the small highland village in the Tatra Mountains through the spa and cultural center to "winter sports capital" in the interwar period. In 1886 highland village obtained the status of the spa which resulted in the construction of numerous health resorts, guesthouses and private villas. Zakopane gathered prominent representatives from politics, science and Polish art. With fascination of the Tatra Mountains and mountain culture gave rise to literary works, music and painting. Interwar period was an intensive development of mountaineering, winter sports and urban development.

Ethnographic department consists largely of imitating the interior of the cottage chambers "black" and "white", separated by a hallway. The decor of the rooms presents the equipment mountain hut from the middle of the nineteenth century. Everyday life family went on a "black" chamber, blackened from the smoke of the fire - here and in the hallway were collected appliances, utensils and tools needed in the household.

The "white" room was festive, hospitable. Dances were held here and all important family celebrations. Furniture "white" room consisted of equipment more richly decorated and carefully made.

The rest of the exhibition is dedicated to the old economy Podhala: collecting and and of hunting and agriculture. In the showcases presented sculpture, ceramics, musical instruments and former and contemporary costume of Podhale.

The first floor of the main building is an exhibition of nature. There are rocks and fossils of the Tatras. The most beautiful specimens from the collections of the Museum document the processes occurring in the region in the Earth's crust and on its surface at various geological periods.

In this part of the exhibition presents the plants and animals of the Tatra Mountains. The botanical the showcases are vascular plants, fungi and lichens. In the showcases can admire mountain animals such as goats, marmots and bears.

Source: http://www.muzeumtatrzanskie.com.pl/

Heraklion, long story

The first traces of Neolithic settlements around the city dates back to approx. 7 millennium BC .

Heraklion lies near the ruins of the palace of Knossos, built around 2000 BC . The collapse of Knossos took place around 1400 BC Then, Crete came under the control of Mycenaean culture, until its collapse around 1100 BC.

The current city was founded in 824 years by the Saracens, who dug a huge ditch of defense around the city. Saracens provides port pirates who rob Byzantine ships, as a refuge and base.

In 961 the Byzantines led by Nikiforos Phocas captured the city and plundered it and murder all the Saracens, it completely burned, and the huge treasures collected by the pirates transported to Constantinople, supposedly for 300 ships. Byzantium controlled rebuilt later Khandak for the next 243 years.

In 1204 the town was bought by Venice, reportedly for 1000 pieces of silver. To protect yourself first before rebellions reluctant them local people, then before the Turkish raids, the Venetians greatly improved defense of the city, building enormous fortifications, most of which still exists - among Koules fortress in the harbor, and a huge wall, thick in places to 40 m, with 7 bastions. Chandak name has replaced its Italian version, Candia. Under Venetian Candia bloomed and after the fall of Constantinople was one of the major cultural centers of the Renaissance. From here came from, among others, El Greco.

After the Venetians came the Turks, bringing the 200-year rule of the Ottoman Empire (with a transition period of supremacy of Egypt in the years 1832-1840).

The Ottoman Empire withdrew from Crete in 1898, after a series of uprisings of the local population and the Greek-Turkish war on the continent. The city became the first part of the Republic of Crete, and then, after 1913, was incorporated into the Kingdom of Greece. After liberation, the name was changed to the city of Iraklion (Heraklion - "city of Hercules"), with reference to the port of Heracleum existing nearby in Roman times.

In 1941, the city was largely destroyed by German bombing during the invasion of Crete. After the war, the destruction rebuilt. In 1971 moved the administrative center from Chania to Heraklion.

9 the most important sites of Heraklion:

1. Palace of Knossos

Fragment of ruins of the palace was discovered in 1878. In 1899. Sir Arthur Evans discovered during excavations extensive ruins of the palace derived from the period 2000-1400 BC (Minoan), called the palace of Minos or Cretan labyrinth.

About 1450 BC when the Achaeans occupied Crete, the palace was finally destroyed at the end of the fourteenth century. BC

2. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

It is the largest museum collecting exhibits from excavations on the island and the second largest collection of ancient Greek monuments and excavations.

3. Koules Fortress

The "Castello a Mare" is a fortress located at the entrance of the old port of Heraklion. It was built by the Republic of Venice in the early 16th century. The fort has two stories, with a total of 26 rooms, which were originally used as barracks, a prison, storage rooms, a water reservoir, a church, a mill and a bakery.

4. Historical Museum

The museum presents exhibits closely connected with the history of Crete from early Christian times to the present.

The most valuable exhibit of the museum is one of the first paintings of El Graco - Mount Sinai.

5. Church of Agios Titos

It has Byzantine origins in AD 961, was converted to a Catholic church by the Venetians and turned into a mosque by the Ottomans, who also rebuilt it after the devastating 1856 earthquake. It has been an Orthodox church since 1925.

6. Cathedral of St. Minas

It is a Greek Orthodox Cathedral, serving as the seat of the Archbishop of Crete. It was built over the time period of 1862-1895. The construction was interrupted during the Cretan Revolution of 1866–1869. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Greece, with a capacity of 8,000 people.

7. Morosini Fountain

Eleftheriou Venizelou Square is a square in the city centre, named after the Cretan statesman Eleftherios Venizelos. It dates back to the Venetian era and is more commonly known as Lions Square, after the Venetian-era Morosini Fountain its midst, which features four lions supporting the main basin.

 8.Loggia

The elegant building of the Loggia is one of the finest monuments of Venetian Crete. The Loggia (noblemen's club) now standing in Heraklion was constructed in 1626-28 by Francesco Morosini, the same man who built the Lions Fountain (Fontana Morosini) in Eleftheriou Venizelou Square. This is the fourth and final Loggia built during the period of Venetian rule.

9. Venetian Walls and Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis

These great walls and bastions were part of the fortress-city the Venetians called Candia. Two of the great city gates have survived fairly well. On the Martinengo Bastion at the southwestern corner of the great walls is the grave of Nikos Kazantzakis (1883-1947), a native of Iraklion and author of Zorba the Greek and The Last Temptation of Christ.

The architecture of Petra

The first Nabataeans, who came to Petra lived in tents that formed fairly loose encampment among the rocks, and in natural caves. Progressively, with the change of lifestyle new residents from a nomadic to a settled, they began to emerge flat, white buildings, which today can be a lot to see in Jordan. In the heyday city crossed one main street lined with white stone. On the terraces were located three large markets, surrounded by shops and numerous structures carved in the rock - from temples and palaces, and ending with the magnificent tombs. In Petra was also a large theater, building testified to the cultural development of the city.

Petra settlement was carved in the rock, in many ways resembled other cities of its era, such as. Ephesus. Nabataeans, being recently nomadic people, they had no tradition of builders, which necessitated them reaching the patterns of other cultures. Therefore, a characteristic feature of the architecture of Petra is the intersection of architectural styles of Egyptian, Syrian, Greek (mainly Hellenistic) and Roman. Nabataeans developed its own design, which in effect led to the development of their own, original style.

A significant expansion of the city made Aretas IV in the first half. I. Century AD, referring mainly to the style of Roman architecture. The reign of the rulers of Petra is called the golden age of the monumental building. Then was built a temple - the so-called. Qasr al-Bint (Palace of Pharaoh's Daughter), theater, expanded the existing water supply system.

The monumental building is dominated by the influence of Greco-Roman, mainly for the reason that were created in the period of Roman domination of political and Greek superiority in culture and art. The distinguishing feature of the architecture of the Nabateans is the use of numerous pilasters with heavy, richly decorated capitals.

The graves have been forged in the rocks as the burial caves with richly decorated entrances in the shape of a triangle. Sometimes there were also built in the shape of pyramids - the so-called. nefesh - indicating strong Egyptian influence.

The most famous buildings of Petra:

Al-Chazna called by the Bedouins "The Treasury" (Chaznat al-Firaun) is carved in the rock, floor structure was formed around. I-II. A.D. It is the flagship and most famous monument of Petra. It is seen as the first after entering the city. At that time tradesmen have to make a stunning impression. It is not clear purpose buildings, although recently most common view that it was the tomb (and not the Temple), one of the rulers of Petra.

Ad-Deir, meaning "monastery" the name comes from the Byzantine period, when in this building actually was a Christian monastery.

Qasr al-Bint, ie. Palace of Pharaoh's daughter. It is a temple erected from sandstone in the second half. I c. BC (Reign Obodas III 30-8 BC), or in the first half. I. Century AD, which is already in the reign of Aretas IV.

Huge impressive big group Tombs of the Kings on the so-called Wall of the Royal, which consists of "Urn Tomb," "Tomb of Silk", "Tomb of Corinth," and the monumental "Tomb Palace"; not found in them any remains.

In the city there was the theater, one of the largest object in Petra, suitable from 6 up to 10 thousand spectators. It was probably built in the first century. Also during the reign of Aretas IV.

In Petra there are also residential buildings, carved in the rocks with numerous windows, mainly consist of one room, sometimes resemble bunk houses.

The history of Petra

Petra is the ruined city of the Nabateans, which had prosperity in ancient times, between the III. BC for I c. A.D. Petra was then the capital of the kingdom of the Nabateans. It is located in a rocky valley, which leads one narrow road among the multicolored and inaccessible rocks. Petra is famous for its buildings carved into the rocks. The Nabataeans called Petra Rqm (Rakmu), which means "multicolored".

Before Petra settled Nabataeans, the place was inhabited by different groups of hunters, gatherers and nomads. Archaeologists found the settlements from the Neolithic period (c. 9000 BC). Until the Arab conquest valley of Petra was regularly inhabited by different groups of nomads.

The first known mention of the living Nabataeans in Petra come from  IV in. BC, but certainly they were there before - probably from the sixth century. BC Since III in. BC role of the city has increased considerably, thanks to the location at the crossroads of trade routes - from India to Egypt and from southern Arabia to Syria - has become an important transportation hub and commercial center in the region. Nabataeans from Petra profited from both the supply caravans of water and other necessary equipment during the trip, as well as imposed on merchants a variety of fees and trading. Safe location of the town among the rocks is another factor that contributed to the growing importance of the Nabateans and Petra prosperity.

Petra Nabataeans resident led a fairly quiet life. Little is known about this period of development rock town, but it was then Petra gradually became a permanent settlement with an urban character. The increasing weakness of the Hellenistic empires, supported the development of Petra, which has become the center of a powerful monarchy Nabateans, constantly expanding his dominion at the expense of declining powers.

When in 64 BC some areas in the Middle East conquered the Roman commander Pompey the Great, Petra was still unbeaten and independent. They failed to win Petra also the king of Judea, Herod the Great, attempting to gain Petra together with the Egyptian queen Cleopatra, nor the emperor Octavian Augustus. However, Petra supported the Roman Empire for the price of peace. It gave the rulers of rock state status to the client, having as an ally of the empire a significant degree of independence. This period is the peak of the importance and prosperity of the city, especially during the reign of King Aretas IV (9 BC - 40 r. Century AD). It is estimated that the number of inhabitants ranged from 30-40 thousand.

The status of a formal alliance and the relative independence of Petra, lasted until the time of Emperor Trajan, who took the city in 106 AD., A year after the death of its last ruler Rabel II and established in the new capital of the Roman province - Saudi. 

It was the end of an independent kingdom of the Nabateans. But still, Petra was an important trading center in the region. In the year 130 to Petra arrived Emperor Hadrian to inspect the province. He so liked Petra that, he decided to invest in its development. As part of the Pax Romana, Petra experienced its economic and cultural renaissance. After the Council of Nicea in 325 AD. The population Petry adopted Christianity. In the Middle Ages, during the Crusades, Petra was occupied by the Crusaders, who built here two citadels. The city subsequently gained by Saladin, was largely destroyed. In the fall of Petry they had had important natural disasters, specifically earthquakes. Especially earthquake of 363. Caused a lot of damage and contributed to a significant depopulation of the city.

July 7, 2007 Petra was declared one of the seven new wonders of the world.

Photos by Mag Jack

Wadi Rum, the most beautiful desert in the world

Wadi Rum is a valley lying among the granite and sandstone rocks. It is the largest desert valley in Jordan. These forms of valley occurring in desert areas. During the rainy season filled with water, creating a sometimes swift, wide, long and winding river.

Wadi Rum is one of the biggest Jordanian attractions. It is one of the most beautiful deserts in the world. In the spring, you'll find more than 2,000 species of flowers and 110 species of birds.

Wadi Rum was inhabited in the prehistoric period by many different cultures, including the Nabateans, they left behind cave drawings, petroglyphs and temples. Currently they live in Wadi Rum Bedouin group.

Region Wadi Rum is one of the most popular tourist regions in Jordan. Popular forms of recreation are seeing the desert surroundings, camping, horseback riding or jeep and rock climbing.

Sandy area, which grow out of pink sandstone cliffs of unusual shapes, painted in colors depending on the time of day. Take a trip off-road vehicle of majestic rocks and dunes, as well as to spend the night under a starry sky in a Bedouin tent.

Wadi Rum became famous in the world by British officer, Thomas Edward Lawrence, who worked in the area during the anti-Turkish Arab uprising in the years 1917-1918.

In 2011, the protected area of Wadi Rum has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Photo by Mag Jack

Jordan, plan of journey

After a stay in Egypt time to journey to Jordan. Long holiday by the sea made the more I want to desert climates of Jordan. Jordan has limited access to the sea. In this small space adjoined to the Red Sea is located Aqaba, a beautiful seaside resort, where I plan stop for a moment before I move through the desert up to the Amman.

Jordan is one of the most tourist-friendly countries in the Middle East. Jordanians with great pleasure be our guides and share traditions and history of their country. Jordanians are very open, willing to talk with tourists, you can also count on a Jordanian coffee.

This place is so ancient and contemporary. On the way to the modern and bustling Amman, I plan to visit Petra, the ancient settlement and Bedouin in the desert of Wadi Rum. Jordan can be proud of its cultural diversity.

Jordan as a country created as a result the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. In the first phase, the British formed east of the Jordan Emirate of Transjordan. After the Second World War, Transjordan from the West Bank created the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Everything changed after the war in 1967, when Jordan lost the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

It should be remembered that 80% of the country is desert stretches up to Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Desert landscapes dominate and give character to this country. Access to the sea provides only port in Aqaba, which dates back to X in. BC In Roman times ran here important route from Damascus to Egypt and Palestine. The Crusaders fortified away 7 km from the Ile de Graye-island called in Arabic Pharaoh's Island. On the other side of the bay you can see the Israeli resort Eljat.

Journey plan:

Day 1-2

Aqaba. It is the only seaside town of Jordan. Before continuing my journey once again dive into admiring the coral reefs of the Red Sea. The beaches of Aqaba is divided into three parts: the north - North Beach, where are most of the hotels, including the most luxurious, middle - Middle Beach - the public beach Al-Hafayer and South - South Beach - the main public beach in the water park Aqaba Marina Park and an exclusive beach in Tala Bay resort.

Day 2-3

Wadi Rum. Pink desert. One of the most beautiful places in the Middle East, unusual valley lying among the rocks, inhabited by the hospitable Bedouins. Wadi Rum was inhabited in the prehistoric period by many different cultures, they have left a mark in the form of cave paintings, petroglyphs and temples.

In 2011, the protected area of Wadi Rum has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 4-6

Petra. This obligatory punk while exploring the Jordani and one of the most unique places in the world. It is the most valuable architectural monuments of the Kingdom of Haszimit (monument inscribed on the UNESCO list), located in inaccessible mountain valley. The entire city is carved into the rock. There are an incredible, huge temples, palaces, tombs and vaults. The site was probably abandoned in the sixth. A.D. because of numerous strong earthquakes. Re-discovered them in 1812. In 1958. Petra opened for tourists. Some of the buildings are located on the nearby summit.

Day 7-8

Madaba. During my stay I visit Mount Nebo, where is a splendid panorama of the valley of the river Jordan and the Holy Land, as it saw Moses. According to tradition, Mount Nebo, the place where Moses first and last saw the Promised Land.

In Madaba I visit the Orthodox Basilica of Saint George, where the floor is a mosaic map of Palestine and Lower Egypt from the sixth century. Inside the church there is also an icon representing St. George killing the dragon.

In addition, I visit the Church of the Holy Apostles, where in 1902 also discovered a number of mosaics, exposed in a specially built hall at the church

In the city there are the ruins of Roman and Byzantine  buildings.

Day 9-11 

Amman is the capital of the Jordani. In Amman, I plan to visit the citadel of the VIII century, built under the rule of the Arab, the Ethnographic Museum and the Museum of Folk Tradition. Additionally, in the city there are monuments from the Roman forum built in 190 years, and surrounded on three sides by columns, the Odeon amphitheater audience and archways built in the second century.

Worth seeing the Temple of Hercules, built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius and the Ruins of the Umayyad palace of the seventh or eighth century, destroyed by an earthquake in 749 years.

In Amman, there are also beautiful mosques: the mosque of King Hussein in 1924, the mosque of Abu Darwish of black and white facade and the mosque of King Abdullah covered with distinctive blue dome.

Day 12-13

Jarash. The ancient city probably founded in the fourth century BC by Alexander the Great or his general Perdiccas. At the end of the second century BC incorporated by the Maccabees Judah, in 63 BC It was occupied by the Roman army. The development of the town occurred in the reign of Emperor Trajan. In VI. During the reign of the Byzantine Justinian built in at least 7 churches. In 614 Geraz won the Sassanids, and in 636 the Arabs. In the city there are ancient temples of Zeus and Artemidt, theaters, hippodrome and bath complex.

Day 14 

Jericho. Transfer to Israel

Egyptian tips

Egypt is famous for its diversity. Everyone will find something for themselves. It is a country for sun  and heat lovers (temperature throughout the year does not fall below 20 degrees.) but also for lovers of water sports, photographers and explorers of history and culture. Egypt is a combination of beautiful nature with amazing ancient monuments. Sahara, raw and majestic mountains of Sinai and the shimmering colors of the coral reefs of the Red Sea. Ancient monuments located along the Nile from Alexandria to Aswan tempt explorers and lovers of history and ancient culture.

Traditions

For every Egyptian service will consist of a tip - the so-called. baksheesh. It is highly inappropriate not to leave even a dollar - both the waiter and someone who will show us the way.

There are a etiquette associated with clothes. In places other than the beach is not suitable swimsuit. In the holy places in general should not wear shorts, women should also have covered shoulders and neck. Entering the mosque should take off your shoes. All this is to respect local customs and not be exposed to unpleasant teasing. If you travel deep into Egypt, then you better take seriously the recommendations.

It is worth remembering also of Ramadan - at the time the Egyptians do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so it is not advisable to eat a meal on the street.

Men and women do not kiss on the street and do not show each other their feelings otherwise than by holding hands. It is a matter of culture and religion, but not allowed to do this also because of the law.

Egypt is a Muslim country, eg. In Sinai may shock the absence of women. All work performing men often coming from all over Egypt, arrive at Sinai only for profit for a few months a year.

While the Arabs have to haggle for everything and every step, it Nubians not worth it, because they offer from the beginning of the prices very favorable. Nubians can meet mainly during a cruise on the Nile and in Aswan.

I encourage you to allow the Egyptian traders to present their goods. They are used, the customer can not buy anything, and the seller will not be offended. If you are already a dialogue with them, sometimes they invited for tea, or regale local food. The call on the street, to encourage the buying and haggling is part of their culture. They are open and friendly.

Food

By far the most common dish in all of Egypt is Kosheri. It is a meatless dish based on pasta, rice, chickpeas and lentils, topped with warm tomato sauce. For this dish waiters serve a jug of water. Average portion, which may be sufficient for the lunch costs about 4-7 LE, depending on bar.

Popular are the sandwich bars, where for the LE 0.5-2 you can order a sandwich with any exposed on the counter contribution (meat, cooked and raw vegetables, chips, freshly roasted chips and shrimp).

Common are bars where juices are made from fresh fruit. Can usually be identified by hanging above the entrance meshes with oranges. Juices are made from oranges, strawberries, sugar cane, gauawy, banana, melon. Pint 0.5l costs 2 LE.

Eat at local fast food can be even 2 pounds and eat well - you order the foul and falafel. You can order breads as sandwiches or pack a takeaway pouches. Very tasty and very cheap, available on every corner.

Prices

Accommodation in Egypt are very cheap, from 3-10 USD. At this price, you can find a nice hotel with a swimming pool and meals. In many shops, there are no listed prices. The prices should ask seller, especially for foreign tourists, they often overstate and you have to haggle.

In the tourist destinations room rates and meal are naturally higher than in Cairo. Rich dinner in a good restaurant - UDS 5-7. Lunch at McDonald's, the cost of approx. 2-3 UDS. The most expensive are the sweets and chocolate.

The average budget for one day, without saving it 10-15 USD. It is worth mentioning that Egypt was one of the cheapest places in the world for tourists.

The most cost tourist attractions, for example. Entrance fee to the museum in Cairo is $ 20 (this is the price for foreign tourists, Egyptians pay cheaper)

Money

The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound. 1 pound is about $ 0.11, and 0.1 Euro.

It is not worth exchange all cash to Egyptian currency, because it is difficult to replace it outside the country. 

Cash Machines and banks are on everywhere, so there are no problems with the exchange of money. However, the commission withdrawals from cash machines is quite high, so you better get together the cash, preferably US dollars or euros, and exchange to as necessary on the spot. Courses in different exchange offices vary slightly, so not worth it to look better.

In the Sharm and Hurghada can be a problem with the exchange Egyptian pounds back into dollars, so it is better exchange to a little bit. In the tourist resorts you can also easily pay with dollars, British pounds and euros, although you can overpay on the course.

Weather

Egyptian climate is tropical climate, extremely dry, and on the coast of the Mediterranean, subtropical. Summers are very hot, the winters are cooler, especially in the desert. Actually, it never rains. All year round there are more than 20 deg., In the summer above 35.

To explore the best time is winter. The temperature of the day is 25 degrees at night is chilly, especially in the desert. It should then take a warm sweater. It should also be noted that many tour buses are not equipped with heating. In the summer sometimes the air conditioning in coaches is so untwisted that it also should have something warm at hand.

To avoid the crowds and the heat, it's best to come between the end of February and May and from September to November.

Transport

Between the cities most convenient way to move public buses (ticket to be bought from the driver, the stop is just a larger group waiting).

Navigating the Cairo bus is a challenge, ride without timetables, stops are contractual, buses are often crowded, it's easy to get lost.

Bus route Hurghada-Cairo in the best class (First Class) will cost approx. 80 le and approx. 5 hours drive.

When in Luxor, you can buy a ticket for a bus to Dahab (route through Qenę, Hurghada, Suez, Sharm el-Sheikh). The ticket costs 130 LE, driving time 20-22h. Air-conditioned buses.

Tourists are allowed on cars only in the cities. Egyptians do not have to accept an international driving license. If anyone has one plank visa can apply for a local driving license. Hiring a car is of course possible, but definitely not recommend. Traffic in Egypt is definitely incomprehensible to Europeans, especially driving without lights at night. The advantage can be a good road condition.

Travel by ferry from Hurghada to Sharm El Sheikh takes approx. 2 hours. For Duby (Saudi Arabia) - 180 min.

The main line traction is a Cairo-Aswan.

In the cities you can ride ordinary taxi. The prices are very low. Best price determined before the start of the course or ensure that taxi driver turned on the taximeter.

What is importante

Matchstick Men. You can overpay for everything and a lot of money. Be sure to bargain, and the starting price given the very low, often 4 or 5 times lower than suggested by the vendor.

The danger is to drink tap water, which may cause diarrhea. Always boil water, and the best drink only bottled. Note on the ice in the drinks! Teeth also better to wash with water from a bottle.

In Cairo rather avoid side streets. In the places of recreation rather you are safe. A large number of armed police. After sunset, outside the tourist resorts, ladies should not move without the company of a man.

In the subtropical countries such as Egypt is different bacterial flora. We must therefore be careful what one eats, and especially - where. I would avoid fast food bars, and more to minimize raw vegetables and fruits. Enjoy a variety of preventive obtain a drug called Antinal.

Visa

There are two types of visas:

FREE so. "Sinai only" - for those who are only in the Sinai. The visa is issued on arrival. Useful for sunbathers and diving and water sports lovers.

PAID ($ 15) - after purchase, you can move around the country.

Cleopatra, the last queen of Egypt

Cleopatra was the daughter of Ptolemy XII and mother of unknown name, probably coming from the lineage of the priests of Ptah of Memphis and being the royal wife of a lower rank. Ptolemy XII died in 51 B.C. Seventeen Cleopatra and her ten year old brother Ptolemy XIII came to power and in accordance with the tradition of the Egyptian entered into marriage.

Young Ptolemy XIII had fallen into political dependence on their own court dignitaries, Pothejnosa, royal teacher Theodetesa of Chios and the army commander Achillas, who sought to offset the power of the queen. Cleopatra in 49 B.C. had to leave the country and go to Palestine, where his own funds proceeded to organize the army. Faction of the king began preparing to repel a potential invasion, gathering strength in the port city of Pelusium.

Caesar in the conflict between the royal couple supported Cleopatra, who already during her stay in Alexandria was his mistress. He demanded that Ptolemy XIII dissolved the army and made peace with his wife-sister. Caesar interference caused discontent of Egyptian society. Against him, and the queen rebellion broke out, which was accepted by Ptolemy XIII and Arsinoe IV, a younger sister of the royal couple. To subvert uprising was brought Roman armies of Syria and Palestine. Ptolemy was killed as a result of the fighting in 47 years BC, and Cleopatra married her half-brother Ptolemy XIV.

At the end of April 47 B.C. Caesar left Egypt, leaving three legions in Alexandria. A few weeks after the departure of Caesar's queen gave birth to a son, and gave the names of Ptolemy Caesar, but it was called Caesarion, ie. Little Caesar. In the middle of 46 years BC Cleopatra with her husband went to Italy to renew an alliance with Rome. After the death of Caesar was forced to leave the capital of the empire.

After returning to Egypt, Ptolemy XIV in 44 B.C. was murdered on the orders of the wife. Cleopatra took governments on behalf of his son Caesarion, who ascended the throne as Ptolemy XV. After the death of Caesar in Rome was a civil war, which determined the future fate of the empire, Cleopatra supported cesarians on the East. At the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC won by supporters of the empire under the leadership of Mark Antony and Octavian Augustus. Cleopatra could expect that the winners will support the position of her son in Egypt. Antony called her to Tarsus, where the conversations on the organization of a new order in the East. During these meetings between the leader of the Roman and Egyptian queen began an affair.

In the winter of 41-40 B.C. Antony stayed with Cleopatra in Alexandria. But he had to leave the queen for several reasons. First, he organized an expedition against the Parthians, secondly, he was going to execute a plan to marry Octavia, sister of Octavian Augustus, for political reasons. Cleopatra, who remained in Egypt, gave birth twins Alexander Helios and Cleopatra Selene.

The alliance between resident in Antioch Antony and Octavian residing in Rome did not last long. 37 B.C. Antony sent his wife to Rome. To Antioch called Cleopatra. On the one hand, this decision affect his feelings for the Queen, on the other hand need the support of Egypt in the war with Rome. Cleopatra loved Antony. She was in the conflict Antony and Octavian political goal. She came to Antioch with children Antony.

On September 31 B.C. there was a battle of Actium between the forces of Octavian and Antony, supported by Cleopatra. Antony was defeated. Ten months later, Octavian marched to Egypt. Mark Antony committed suicide. Cleopatra acted to preserve the independence of the kingdom and the power to provide for their children. Negotiations with Octavian, however, did not produce successful results. He feared the political strengthening of Caesarion and focus around the opponents of Roman rule in Egypt. Dated August 12, 30 B.C. Cleopatra committed suicide when it turned out that none of her attempts did not bring the expected results.

source: Wikipedia

Egyptian mythology

Initially, it was believed in many gods of Egypt. Beliefs changed depending on the political situation in Egypt and its leaders, the gods were combined and changed.

In the final stage of the Egyptian religion was founded triad of deities: Osiris, Isis and Horus and Set their enemy. Each deity had its own worship center. Sometimes a combined figure of Osiris and Horus, seeking to introduce monotheism. Earlier attempts to introduce monotheism by some pharaohs, by selecting one of the gods and the rejection of others have failed.

In the beliefs of Egyptian human soul exists even after the death of the body. In order to preserve the identity of existence after death, the body was embalmed and mummified. The bodies were temporarily placed in a reed coffins in a very hot sand, which quickly drying out delay and prevented decomposition. Then followed the funeral. Embalming was invented during the Fourth Dynasty. All soft tissues are removed and the empty space filled with natron.

An important role was played by the Book of the Dead - a collection of nearly two hundred magical texts, drawings and songs, each matched to a person deceased, to facilitate his transition to the world of the post-mortem. In some graves Book of the Dead is also painted on the walls.

According to later belief, the soul of the deceased will be brought before Anubis, and the weight of his heart - the recording of morality - is compared with the weight of a pen Maat - goddess of truth, justice and order. If the result is favorable deceased, the deceased is led by Horus to Osiris, otherwise it is devoured by the devourer of sinners with the head of a crocodile, the body cheetah and hindquarters of a hippopotamus.

The gods of ancient Egyptian civilization came from the prehistoric animistic cults and were part of a very rich mythology. One of the most important gods was usually the Pharaoh. The most famous was the Egyptian god of the sun god Ra (Re) and Osiris, the god of death and reborn life.

Ra (Re) was the sun god, the creator of the world and the Lord of order in the universe. Was presented with the solar disk and the head of a falcon. He was regarded by the Egyptians as the most important of the gods and ruler of the people. The ancient Egyptians believed that the self-created from Praoceanu Nun. His children were Horus, Anubis, Maat, Bastet, Hathor, Sekhmet, Thoth, Shu, Tefnut.

The ancient Egyptians believed that formerly Re reign on earth as Pharaoh, and every day he left his temple in Heliopolis and walked through the 12 provinces of the earth for 12 hours of the day. However, when approaching the people, then they burn them so Re leave the earth and wandering in the day of the sky. Specially composed for the royal anthem to use Re, called. Litany Solar, inscribed in the corridors of input royal tombs of dynasties XIX and XX in the Valley of the Kings.

Osiris was the god of death and reborn life, the Great Judge of the dead. He married Isis and was the ruler of the earth, and the underworld land of the dead. He had two sons, Anubis and Horus. Ages ago Osiris taught people farming. He was killed by his brother Seth. His wife Isis found his dismembered body and with Nephthys restored her husband to life. Osiris could not live on earth, but lived in the afterlife. He was killed and then resurrected by the gods, became the ruler of the underworld and judge of the dead. Isis was the goddess of fertility, family protectress. It is presented as the best mother, the incarnation of goodness.

Set was the god of storms, deserts, darkness and chaos. It was a deity of a demon. He was portrayed as a man with the head of the animal unknown to this day. It includes features the head of a jackal, antelope and okapi. Previously he appeared perhaps as a god of war, and could be a deity older than the Egyptian religion. In the Egyptian religion was one of the main gods. His attribute was the antelope with the head of a jackal. Set was the enemy of Horus and the killer of his own brother, Osiris. Starting from the XXII dynasty, it becomes the incarnation of evil. During the New Kingdom his cult was forbidden.

From the beliefs of ancient Egypt comes the phoenix, the mythical bird, considered a symbol of the sun and the eternal rebirth of life. Phoenix flew from Arabi to Egypt once every 500 years. On the altar of the sun at Heliopolis, in the month of Adar, the priests were preparing a special stack, where the bird burned and was resurrected after 3 days to go on a return journey.

Sharm el-Sheikh, trips&tips

Sharm el-Sheikh is known for over 500 resorts. Hotels are mostly two-storey buildings blended into green areas. Today, almost the entire coastline is already built. Sharm el-Sheikh is the richest part of the Sinai. Residing it sheikhs who put on the development and popularization of the region, hence the excellent infrastructure and tourist service on the highest level. Here his residences has also former President Hosni Mubarak, many Arab politicians and businessmen. Every year, tourists come from all over the world to enjoy the wonderful weather and soak up the sun.

There is a 255 different coral reefs and more than 1,000 species. In Sharm el-Sheikh are located 140 schools and bases diving. Until the mid 80's to the city came almost exclusively amateur diving. Today, they constitute only 20-30% of the total number of tourists. The city has to offer more than 30 dive sites are available both from the shore and from boats, which are marked by buoys.

Almost the entire shore in Sharm el-Sheikh are the underwater coral gardens. In the area the city you can admire the mangroves, can be found here approx. 50% of the total number of trees across the northern hemisphere. In the immediate vicinity of the city is Ras Mohammed National Park covering a vast area of desert and captivating coral reefs and Shark Observatory.

The city is also the starting point to other tourist attractions of the region, among others, Mount Sinai, Monastery of St. Catherine, Coloured Canyon, Blue Hole, Serabit el-Khadim, Hammam Faraun, as well as Israel, the island of Tiran, Cairo, Luxor, Abu Simbel and the surrounding area of Hurghada and Petra in Jordan. Sharm el-Sheikh is often a transit city round trips Israel and Jordan.

In Sharm el-Sheikh airport is located. It is the largest international airport in the Sinai peninsula, serving traffic Intrastate and the European and Middle East. The city is also a seaport serving regular lines to Hurghada (approx. 2 hrs.), As well as routes and tourist cruise organized, usually by large travel agencies. Bus station Delta Sharm offers bus connections to Cairo, Suez, Ismailia, Luxor, Alexandria and more important towns of the Sinai.

The temperature in the winter day is from 15 to 35 degrees Celsius in summer 20 to 45 degrees Celsius. Red Sea water temperature varies from 21 (winter season) to 30 degrees Celsius in the summer. Low air humidity (approx. 4%) allows removal of these high temperatures. Rainfall here belong to the extraordinary rarity.

Red Sea, resorts and coral reefs

Red Sea Riviera is a very popular tourist destination. Along the coast, on the western shore of the Gulf of Aqaba and the eastern shore of the Gulf of Suez in the Sinai peninsula and along the eastern continental coast of Egypt are located numerous tourist centers, towns and villages visited by thousands of tourists every year.

In the coldest month of February day air temperature is approx. 25 degrees C and the water in sea approx. 22 deg. C, in the warmest August temperature is from 25 to 30 degrees C, and water approx. 35 degrees Celsius. Moisture the air is very low. Rainfall is very rare, dry and warm air is in all seasons. Sea water is extremely clean and transparent. Visibility in the sea reaches 20 m, which makes the diving conditions are ideal.

With the Red Sea Riviera is more than 90 shipwrecks that are available for divers. Egyptian Riviera is known for its coral reefs, open to both beginners and experienced divers, as well as for practicing snorkeling. These reefs with beautiful flora and fauna, are available both from the shore and from boats. Gulf of Suez is, however, relatively shallow (10 m), but also full of coral reefs that extend close to the coast, to the border with Sudan.

Red Sea easiest way to get is a plane. Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada have direct charter flights from Europe and the Middle East, and tickets are relatively cheap. The seaside resorts of the Riviera have a connection between them and the air and sea bus. In the cities there are also taxis, which reach almost all of the selected tourist destinations in the country.

All arriving tourists are required to purchase a monthly tourist visa. They can do this directly at the airport. Tourists arriving directly from abroad to Sharm el-Sheikh (or to the town of Taba, Dahab and Nuweiba) and wishing to remain only in the city or in the villages, or visit the Mount Sinai does not require a visa, enough is a free stamp in your passport Only Sinai.

The safety of tourists supervised by specially appointed for this purpose tourist police, whose officers speak English and are trained to provide help. Organized trips to some of the sites are compulsorily escorted by them, or at least accompanied by the coaches. Around all the tourist attractions, as well as railway stations and checkpoints are guarded by armed security forces.

The most popular destinations within Red Sea include:

1. Taba - a small Bedouin village, approx. 8 km from the Israeli Eilat and 15 km from the Jordanian Aqaba, south of the village is the resort of Taba Heights marina sea, and Pharaoh's Island. North of Taba is located the airport.

2. Dahab - the local coral reefs stretching the entire length of the coast. The most popular among divers is the Blue Hole, located a few meters from the coast, wide, approximately 50 m hollow reaching a depth of 100 m. The village operates several resorts. In the area Dahab is a reserve of Ras Abu Dżallum and reserve Dahab.

3. Sharm el-Sheikh - the famous resort called. Golden Bay Red Sea Riviera, consisting of many smaller bays, just 80 kilometers south of Mount Sinai. One of the largest in Egypt tourist centers of international importance. Situated between nature reserves and national park Ras Muhammad Observatory sharks, often called the jewel in the crown of the Red Sea. The expansive resort of Sharm el-Sheikh is known for more than 500 resorts and more than 30 dive sites are available both from the shore and from a boat, there are over 250 different coral reefs and 1000 species of fish in the warm waters of the sea. In Naama Bay there are numerous dining and entertainment options. In the bay there are numerous shipwrecks, which are an attraction for divers.

4.  Ras Sudr - known resorts and sports, due to favorable winds allow windsurfing and kite surfing.

5. Hammam Musa - Moses baths consist of five natural sulfur springs at a temperature of 37 degrees C. According to legend, on the way to the Promised Land of Israel rested here under the leadership of Moses.

6. Hurghada - one of the largest in Egypt tourist centers of international importance. In the area of Hurghada is available approx. 45 coral reefs. The city has an airport.

7. Barnis - historical resort at Cape Ras Banas, located here one of the biggest rock needles northern Africa and the Middle East and Mukawwa Island.

8. Safaga - hotel resort and a small port. Around there are lots of diving on the reef and wreck. The largest islands in the area include Safaga and Tobia Island. In the area is a reserve Coral Sharm el-Naga in which the corals are already at a depth of 1.5 m.

9. At-Tur - resort, where windsurfing and kitesurfing. The neighborhood is Airport At-Tur. There is also an archaeological site and Castle At-Tur built in 1520.

10. Asl - a small town on its outskirts have located the small resorts, located near hot springs Hammam Faraun, ancient countries turquoise Serabit el-Khadim and Mafkat and a large oasis of Wadi Fajran.