Culture & Traditions in Egypt

In Egypt the past feels alive!

Culture & traditions in Egypt

Egypt has five thousand years of recorded history. It is amongst the earliest of civilisations. Egypt’s culture has influenced later societies in Europe, the Middle East Africa.

After the time of the Pharaohs, Egypt fell under the influence of Hellenism, then Christianity and later Arabic and Islamic culture. Today, Egypt's ancient culture exists with the influence of modern westernised culture.

Apart from the country’s sheer beauty, Egypt’s visitors are overwhelmed by the warmth and welcome of the local people. Many visitors to this very large but most charming country are surprised by the exceptional hospitality they receive.

Religion in modern Egypt

In Egypt nowadays visitors find traditions that remain from the time of the Pharaohs alongside tribal customs and the traditions that were brought into the country throughout the ages.

The holy month of Ramadan is observed, during which time, Muslims in Egypt fast from sunrise to sunset.

Egypt’s family customs

Many weddings in Egypt are still "arranged marriages" with the old tradition still alive of the groom's family proposing to the bride to be. The traditional wedding march, the Zaffa is still practised before the vows with belly dancers, music, drums and flaming swords.

Traditional music and dance in Egypt

Music and dance have always formed a very important part of Egyptian life. It has found its way into all walks of life; from temples and palaces, to workshops and farms, even on battlefields and in tombs. It is thought that the "Belly Dance" originated in Egypt.

Music in the country today is a mix of Egyptian, Arabic, African and Western. Both Egyptian folk music and pop music are very popular.

Food and drink in Egypt

Egyptian cuisine is known for its distinctive flavour that comes about by the use of fresh ingredients. Some of dishes still prepared today are the same as those eaten in ancient Egypt.

Ful medames is a popular and traditional bean dish, usually eaten for breakfast but which can be snacked on throughout the day. This dish dates back to ancient times and has actually been found on hieroglyphics by archaeologists.

Like other countries that have seen so many different peoples pass through, Egyptian cuisine has been so influenced by them. The steady flow of immigrants from Syria, Lebanon other Arabic countries means the celebrated array of meze is now seen on many tables.

Another popular dish is of tasty stuffed vegetables and baklava, which has been a popular dish from way back in the Middle Ages when Egypt was ruled by the Ottoman Turks.

Most Egyptians (Egypt being a predominantly Muslim nation) do not drink alcohol or eat pork. Alcohol is available, however, as Egyptians do not object to others drinking.

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