Rawda Island Nilometer: Measuring the Nile's Legacy
Explore the historic Nilometer on Rawda Island, a unique landmark showcasing ancient Egyptian ingenuity and the Nile's vital role.
The Rawda Island Nilometer, built in 861 AD, is one of Egypt's oldest Islamic-era structures. This ancient device measured the Nile River's water levels, crucial for agriculture and taxation. Located on the southern tip of Rawda Island in Cairo, it offers a glimpse into ancient Egyptian engineering and the importance of the Nile to the region's prosperity.
A brief summary to Rawda Island Nilometer
- 264G+Q2J, Al-Miqyas Street, Southern Tip of Al-Roda Island, Cairo Governorate شارع المقياس, الطرف الجنوبي, Old Cairo, لجزيرة الروضة, Cairo Governorate, EG
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and beautiful sunrise views over the Nile.
- Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the Nilometer.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will likely want to explore the area on foot.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central Cairo, take the Metro to the Al-Malek Al-Saleh station. From there, you can take a local bus or a short taxi ride to the southern tip of Rawda Island, where the Nilometer is located. Bus fares are typically around 9 EGP , and a short taxi ride should cost approximately 20-30 EGP.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Cairo. A taxi ride from downtown Cairo to the Rawda Island Nilometer typically costs between 50-80 EGP, depending on traffic and the time of day. Be sure to confirm the fare or meter usage before starting your journey.
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Walking
If you are already on Rawda Island, the Nilometer is located at the southern tip and is accessible by foot. Follow Al-Miqyas Street south; the walk offers pleasant views of the Nile. There are no specific access fees for reaching the entrance.
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