The capital of Egypt, Cairo, is the largest city in the Middle East and Africa. Located on the banks of the River Nile, Cairo is the first stop on any of the Nile cruises in Egypt. Cairo, culturally, is an amalgam of Pharaonic, Coptic and Islamic influences. A significant part of the Jewish population lives in cities.
West of Cairo is the magnificent ancient city of Giza, whose remains are only the Great Pyramids of Giza (see pyramids in Egypt). Memphis, the ancient Egyptian capital, is located 24 km outside of Cairo. Saqquara, near Cairo, is home to an ancient Egyptian cemetery.
The Solar Boats of Khufu, near the Pyramids were built to facilitate the travel of the late King Khufu in the underworld. They are located right next to the Great Pyramid of Khufu. The Sphinx, the half human, half lion statue that has become synonymous with mystery, is a little 'far from the Great Pyramids.