A Cultural Overview
Egypt, with its millennia-old civilization, is a country that bridges northeast Africa with the Middle East. It is renowned for its ancient heritage, contributing significantly to human knowledge, art, and culture. Today, Egypt’s population reflects a blend of its rich past and the dynamics of modern life.
Ethnicity and Language: The majority of the population is Arab, with small minority groups, including Nubians, Bedouins, and Berbers. Arabic is the official language, serving as a cornerstone of national identity and cultural cohesion.
Culture and Heritage: Egypt’s culture is heavily influenced by its ancient civilization, Islam, and various foreign dominations, including Greek, Roman, and Ottoman. Its contributions to literature, art, architecture, and science are unparalleled. Modern Egyptian culture, seen through its cinema, music, and literature, plays a pivotal role in the Arab world.
Social Fabric: Egyptian society is characterized by its familial bonds and communal relationships. Hospitality and social gatherings are integral, with a strong emphasis on respect for tradition and elders. Egypt faces challenges related to urbanization and economic disparity, but its social fabric remains resilient, underpinned by a deep cultural heritage.
Where Egypt is on the Map of
Africa
Egypt at a Glance
Independence: 28 February 1922
Capital: Cairo
Population: 102,674,145
Language: Arabic
Area: 1,010,408 square km
Provinces: Egypt is divided into 27 governorates: Ad Daqahliyah, Al Bahr al Ahmar, Al Buhayrah, Al Fayyum, Al Gharbiyah, Al Iskandariyah (Alexandria), Al Isma’iliyah, Al Jizah (Giza), Al Minufiyah, Al Minya, Al Qahirah (Cairo), Al Qalyubiyah, Al Sharqiyah, As Suways (Suez), Aswan, Asyut, Bani Suwayf, Bur Sa’id (Port Said), Dumyat (Damietta), Janub Sina’ (South Sinai), Kafr ash Shaykh, Matruh, Qina (Qena), Shamal Sina’ (North Sinai), Suhaj, Red Sea (Al Bahr al Ahmar) and New Valley (Al Wadi al Jadid)
Ethnic groups: Egyptians 99%, Bedouins, Nubians and Berbers 1%
Egypt is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and the Sinai Peninsula of Western Asia. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Gaza Strip (Palestine) and Israel to the northeast, the Red Sea to the east, Sudan to the south, and Libya to the west.
