Embarking on a private day tour to Tanis, Bubastis. The Suez Canal from Cairo is an expedition that promises a tapestry woven with history, culture, and the intriguing essence of ancient and modern Egypt. This journey is not just a physical passage but a transcendence through the corridors of time. Offering a profound encounter with the country’s illustrious past and dynamic present. Enjoy Private day tour to Tanis Bubastis and the Suez Canal from Cairo.
Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and modern marvels, is home to a rich tapestry of history that spans millennia. Among its many historical sites are Tanis and Bubastis, two ancient cities that played significant roles in the religious and political landscape of ancient Egypt. In contrast, the Suez Canal represents a modern engineering feat that has transformed trade and transportation in the region. This exploration delves into the historical significance of Tanis and Bubastis, their contributions to ancient Egyptian culture, and the impact of the Suez Canal on Egypt and the world.
Tanis, known in ancient Egyptian as “Djanet,” was the capital of Egypt during the 21st and 22nd Dynasties, specifically in the Third Intermediate Period (c. 1070–664 BCE). Located in the northeastern Nile Delta, Tanis was strategically positioned near the Nile River, facilitating trade and communication with other regions. The city was dedicated to the worship of the god Amun and served as a religious center, attracting pilgrims and worshippers from across Egypt.
The archaeological site of Tanis is renowned for its impressive ruins, which include temples, palaces, and burial sites. Excavations at Tanis have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including statues, inscriptions, and pottery, providing valuable insights into the daily life, religious practices, and political history of ancient Egypt. One of the most significant discoveries at Tanis was the royal tombs of the 21st Dynasty, which contained a wealth of treasures, including gold jewelry, canopic jars, and elaborate sarcophagi.
The Temple of Amun at Tanis is particularly noteworthy, featuring massive stone columns and intricate reliefs that depict scenes of worship and offerings to the gods. The temple complex served as a center for religious ceremonies and rituals, reinforcing the city’s status as a major religious hub in ancient Egypt.
Tanis was not only a political capital but also a center of religious activity. The worship of Amun, one of the most important deities in the Egyptian pantheon, played a central role in the city’s identity. The annual festivals held in honor of Amun attracted large crowds, fostering a sense of community and devotion among the people.
The city’s significance extended beyond its religious practices; it was also a center for the arts and culture. The artisans of Tanis produced exquisite works of art, including sculptures and jewelry, that reflected the city’s wealth and artistic achievements. The legacy of Tanis continues to influence modern understandings of ancient Egyptian culture and religion.
Bubastis, known in ancient Egyptian as “Bubastet,” was another important city in the Nile Delta, dedicated to the worship of the goddess Bastet, the feline deity associated with home, fertility, and motherhood. Bubastis flourished during the 22nd Dynasty and became a major religious center, attracting worshippers from across Egypt.
The archaeological site of Bubastis is characterized by its impressive temples and monuments dedicated to Bastet. The most notable structure is the Temple of Bastet, which featured a large courtyard, columns adorned with intricate carvings, and statues of the goddess in her feline form. The temple complex served as a focal point for religious ceremonies and festivals, particularly the annual Bubastis Festival, which celebrated the goddess and attracted thousands of pilgrims.
Excavations at Bubastis have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including amulets, pottery, and statues, providing insights into the religious practices and daily life of the city’s inhabitants. The discovery of numerous cat cemeteries at Bubastis highlights the significance of cats in ancient Egyptian culture, as they were revered as sacred animals associated with the goddess Bastet.
Bubastis was a vibrant center of worship and cultural expression, with festivals dedicated to Bastet drawing large crowds. The Bubastis Festival, held annually, was one of the most important religious events in ancient Egypt, featuring music, dancing, and feasting. The festival fostered a sense of community and devotion among the participants, reinforcing the city’s identity as a center of religious activity.
The city’s association with cats and the goddess Bastet contributed to its cultural significance, as cats were seen as protectors of the home and symbols of fertility. The reverence for cats in Bubastis reflects the broader cultural attitudes toward animals in ancient Egypt, where many species were considered sacred and integral to religious practices.
The Suez Canal, completed in 1869, is one of the most significant engineering achievements in modern history. It connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, providing a direct maritime route between Europe and Asia. The canal was conceived by Ferdinand de Lesseps, a French diplomat and engineer, who envisioned a waterway that would facilitate trade and commerce by reducing the need for lengthy sea voyages around Africa.
The construction of the Suez Canal was a monumental undertaking that involved the excavation of vast amounts of earth and the creation of a navigable waterway. The project faced numerous challenges, including political opposition, financial difficulties, and engineering obstacles. Despite these challenges, the canal was completed and officially opened on February 17, 1867.
The Suez Canal is approximately 120 miles (193 kilometers) long and varies in width and depth along its course. The canal’s construction involved the use of advanced engineering techniques, including the use of steam-powered machinery and the development of locks to manage water levels. The canal’s completion revolutionized global trade, significantly reducing travel time for ships and facilitating the movement of goods between Europe and Asia.
The Suez Canal has had a profound impact on global trade and commerce. It serves as a vital shipping route for oil, goods, and commodities, making it one of the busiest waterways in the world. The canal has played a crucial role in shaping the economies of Egypt and the surrounding region, generating significant revenue from tolls and fees charged to passing vessels.
The canal’s strategic importance has also made it a focal point of political tensions and conflicts throughout history. Control of the Suez Canal has been a contentious issue, particularly during the Suez Crisis of 1956, when Egypt nationalized the canal, leading to military intervention by Britain, France, and Israel. The crisis highlighted the canal’s significance as a geopolitical asset and its role in international relations.
While Tanis and Bubastis represent the rich religious and cultural heritage of ancient Egypt, the Suez Canal symbolizes the country’s modernization and integration into the global economy. The historical significance of Tanis and Bubastis lies in their contributions to the religious and political landscape of ancient Egypt, while the Suez Canal reflects the aspirations of a nation seeking to embrace modernity and progress.
The archaeological sites of Tanis and Bubastis continue to be important for understanding ancient Egyptian culture and religion. They attract scholars, archaeologists, and tourists interested in exploring the rich history of the region. The preservation of these sites is essential for maintaining Egypt’s cultural heritage and promoting awareness of its ancient past.
In contrast, the Suez Canal represents a modern achievement that has transformed Egypt’s economy and position in the world. The canal has facilitated trade and commerce, connecting Egypt to global markets and contributing to its economic development. The juxtaposition of ancient sites like Tanis and Bubastis with the modern engineering marvel of the Suez Canal highlights the dynamic interplay between history and progress in Egypt.
The tourism potential of Tanis and Bubastis, combined with the economic significance of the Suez Canal, creates opportunities for sustainable development in the region. Efforts to promote tourism at archaeological sites can contribute to local economies, providing jobs and supporting cultural preservation initiatives. The Suez Canal, as a major trade route, continues to generate revenue for Egypt, further enhancing its economic prospects.
By fostering a deeper understanding of its ancient heritage while embracing modern development, Egypt can create a balanced approach to economic growth that respects its historical legacy. The integration of tourism, cultural preservation, and economic development can contribute to a sustainable future for the country.
Tanis, Bubastis, and the Suez Canal represent different facets of Egypt’s rich history and cultural heritage. Tanis and Bubastis, with their ancient temples and religious significance, offer valuable insights into the beliefs and practices of ancient Egyptians. In contrast, the Suez Canal stands as a testament to modern engineering and the transformative power of infrastructure in shaping economies and societies.
As Egypt continues to navigate the complexities of the modern world, the interplay between its ancient heritage and contemporary development will remain a crucial aspect of its identity. By preserving its historical sites and embracing modern advancements, Egypt can honor its past while forging a path toward a prosperous future. The stories of Tanis, Bubastis, and the Suez Canal are woven into the fabric of Egypt’s narrative, reflecting the enduring spirit of a nation that has captivated the world for millennia.
You will be picked up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza by Ancient Egypt Tours representative, start visiting to Tanis is one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt. You will Visit Visit the Royal tombs of Kings from both the 21st and the 22nd Dynasties were buried within the temple precinct at Tanis. On February 27, 1939, a French Egyptologist, Pierre Montet, entered into what looked like a tomb plundered many centuries ago among the fertile palm groves of the Nile Delta. On the walls of the underground chamber could be seen engraved the name of Takelot II, sovereign of the XXII dynasty. What that man had just discovered was nothing less than the lost Necropolis of the pharaohs of Tanis, which contained some of the most awesome treasures found in Egypt.
and moving to Suez Governorate to view the Suez Canal. It is an artificial waterway at sea level that extends in Egypt from north to south across the Isthmus of Suez, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. It separates the continents of Asia and Africa and is considered the shortest sea route between Europe and the countries located around the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. It is the most common canal. Navigational intensity in terms of use.
At the end of the Tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
| Adults Numbers | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single | 200 $ |
| 2 -3 | 140 $ |
| 4 – 6 | 120 $ |
| 7 – 10 | 100 $ |
| 11 – 15 | 80 $ |
Tour price currency is set to USD but you can pay in Euro or British pound. The prices quoted per person per tour all-inclusive of tax and prices are always updated to ensure you receive the lowest price possible. Once your tour is confirmed we guarantee the price will not be changed.
0 – 05.99 free of Charge.
6 – 11.99 pay 50% of tour price.
12+ pay full tour price as per adult person.
Children policy is not applied on all kinds of transportation (Flight, train or bus) full ticket payment is required
We are offering a considerable down payment of just 25% to secure your spaces on the tour including domestic flight ticket, and other travel-related services. The remaining balance can be paid up to two days prior to your arrival date or in cash upon arrival at the destination. Therefore, making your booking a risk-free investment.
Ancient Egypt Tours does not charge a cancellation fee for tours and excursions canceled for ‘force measures reasons such as volcanoes, earthquakes, or reasons beyond control. If cancellation happens due to personal or business reasons and Ancient Egypt Tours has already incurred costs on your behalf, these costs will not be refunded to you.
To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
Flight & train tickets are nonrefundable
After your tour is confirmed, we will email final confirmation and voucher to print and bring with you. Details will include contact numbers of your tour operator and customer care and additional information for your convenience.
