Roman Tower: Echoes of Ancient Babylon in Cairo

The Roman Tower, also known as the remains of the Roman Babylon tower, stands as a testament to Cairo's rich and layered history. These towers are the remnants of the Babylon Fortress, established in AD 98 by the Roman Emperor Trajan. The name 'Babylon' is believed to be derived from the Pharaonic name 'Per-hapi-en-on,' meaning the 'Estate of the Nile God at On'.Once part of the fortress's western gate, the two round towers served as integral defenses for the riverfront. The Nile's waters once lapped against their sturdy foundations. Excavations around the southern tower have revealed sections of the ancient quay, several meters below the current street level, offering a glimpse into the past. Atop the northern tower sits the Greek Orthodox Monastery and the Church of St. George, honoring a Palestinian conscript in the Roman army who resisted the suppression of Christianity.Today, the Roman Tower is easily accessible, located right outside the Mar Girgis metro station in Old Cairo. While most of the original fortress was demolished in the 19th century, these towers remain as a tangible link to the Roman era in Egypt. Visitors can explore the visible structure of one tower at street level, while the original location lies several meters below, showcasing the city's continuous development.