Audio Guide of Old Damietta

Since it is a historic district rather than an enclosed site, Old Damietta is accessible 24 hours a day for walking around. However, if you wish to enter specific monuments such as the Mosque of Amr Ibn al-As, the recommended visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, avoiding prayer times.

Access to the streets and the appreciation of the historic architecture is completely free, as it is a living urban area. Some religious sites may accept donations, but there is no central ticket office or mandatory tickets for the area.

To absorb the essence of the place without rushing, I recommend setting aside between 2 and 3 hours. This will allow you to walk through the historic alleys, visit the main mosque, and enjoy the local atmosphere at a relaxed pace.

This place is legendary for its resistance during the Crusades; it was here that King Louis IX of France was defeated and captured. It is also home to the second mosque built in Egypt after the Arab conquest, making it a gem of Islamic and military history.

Definitely the winter months, from October to April, are ideal because the weather is milder and more pleasant for walking. If you travel in summer, try to go early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the scorching midday sun.

You should keep in mind that this is an old area with uneven paving and narrow sidewalks, which makes wheelchair access quite difficult. Most historic buildings do not have modern ramps, so assistance is required.

Do not miss Ras El Bar, located a few kilometers away, where the Nile River meets the Mediterranean Sea (the Ocean and the River kiss). It is a unique geographical phenomenon called 'El Lesseps' that perfectly complements the historic visit.

Carry cash in Egyptian pounds for small purchases and wear modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for local culture and to make access to mosques easier. And a secret tip: try the local sweets called 'Meshabbek'; Damietta is famous throughout Egypt for its pastries.