El-Gendy Unveils Secrets of Islamic Egypt to World Ambassadors During Tour of "Al-Azhar" and Old Cairo

Within the framework of its pioneering role to enhance Egyptian soft power and open channels of cultural communication with the international community, the Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities and Heritage organized a high-level archaeological tour for an extensive group of foreign ambassadors. The tour spanned a number of unique architectural treasures in the historic Cairo area and the Al-Magharbelin neighborhood, concluding at one of the most magnificent Mamluk palaces, the Prince Taz Palace.

The tour witnessed a heavy diplomatic presence, led by the former U.S. Ambassador, Herro Mustafa Garg; Ambassador of the Republic of Estonia, Ingrid Amer; Ambassador of the Republic of Finland to Cairo, Riikka Eela; Ambassador of Slovenia to Cairo, Sašo Podlesnik; and Ambassador Christian Berger, former Head of the European Union Delegation. This was alongside Mr. Ali Abu Dashish, Director of the Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities and Heritage, the Director of the World Bank in Cairo, and a select group of cultural attachés and prominent figures.

The tour and historical commentary were presented by Dr. Tarek El-Gendy, the well-known businessman and Secretary-General of the Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities and Heritage. Dr. El-Gendy accompanied the diplomatic delegation on a historical journey starting from the Al-Azhar antiquities area to the heart of the Al-Magharbelin district, showcasing stories of the ancient Egyptian street and the details of daily life during those historical eras. The tour also included a field visit to prominent historical landmarks, including the Wikala of Al-Ghouri, the Mosque of Sultan Al-Mu'ayyad Shaykh, and the famous Bab Zuweila.

During the tour, Dr. Tarek El-Gendy emphasized that these visits primarily aim to introduce foreign ambassadors to the cultural and religious depth of Egypt's Islamic history. He noted that the Prince Taz Palace and its surrounding areas represent a unique human heritage that reflects the genius of Islamic architecture.

El-Gendy explained that the Foundation places the dissemination of Egyptian culture and history on the global stage at the forefront of its priorities. He stressed that these diplomatic tours serve as a direct and powerful promotional message for Egyptian tourism, as they highlight the aesthetics of Historic Cairo as a safe, enchanting, and world-class cultural and tourist destination that welcomes visitors from all corners of the globe.

For their part, the foreign ambassadors expressed their profound fascination with the monumental architecture, as well as the enchanting heritage atmosphere and the warm hospitality experienced in the Al-Magharbelin area.