City of the Dead, Egypt

The City of Dead in Egypt is an ancient cemetery at the same time a living city. In the past the rulers in Cairo used this area to burry their dead as it was outside the city. But history reveals that since the time of Pharaohs the burial place was considered to be a place where life begins.

From 14th century onwards one finds that the City of Dead began to be occupied for dwelling and the cenotaphs were used as place to entertain the guests. Today these cenotaphs are used as tables and are important in this part of the city.

But the City of Dead in Cairo has become a permanent shelter for the urban poor, as the stay here is inexpensive. Here one would find communities living here as a tolerated separate society. According the statistics there are approximately five million Egyptians living in the City of Dead.

In modern times the cities lack of urban infrastructure and unaffordable housing has led to several communities to embrace the cemeteries and make it a part of their lives. But this has been without any qualms, as traditionally Egyptians have never seen cemeteries as a place of dread but where life begins. But given an opportunity the residents would definitely like moving out.

But in the tour to Cairo one should visit the City of Dead as this place has a charm of its own, as it is so different from the rest of the city. It would also be a time to know how the people live in this part of the city.