Student diary

Today, I visited the Gayer-Anderson Museum, and it felt like stepping into a treasure trove of art, history, and mystery. Tucked beside the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the museum’s charm lies not only in its remarkable collection but also in the house itself—a beautiful blend of Islamic and Ottoman architecture. The moment I walked in, I was transported back in time. The intricate mashrabiya screens, colorful stained-glass windows, and detailed carvings on the walls were mesmerizing. The house is divided into several rooms, each filled with artifacts that reflect the diverse tastes and eclectic personality of Major Gayer-Anderson, the British officer who restored and lived in the house in the early 20th century. One of the first rooms I explored was the Persian Room, where every corner seemed to hold a story. The delicate Persian tiles, antique rugs, and stunning painted ceilings made me feel like I had entered a palace. The lighting, soft and warm, added to the sense of timelessness. The Har...

Today, I visited Mogamaa El-Adyan (The Complex of Religions), and it was an unforgettable journey through the spiritual and historical heart of Cairo. This unique area, where mosques, churches, and a synagogue coexist, is a beautiful testament to Egypt’s rich history of religious diversity. As I entered the area, I felt a sense of calm and reverence. The first stop was the Hanging Church, an architectural marvel perched atop the Roman Babylon Fortress. The intricate wooden ceiling resembling Noah's Ark and the colorful icons depicting saints and biblical stories immediately caught my attention. The peaceful atmosphere inside made me pause for a moment of reflection. From there, I visited Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church, where tradition holds that the Holy Family took refuge during their flight to Egypt. Standing in the crypt where they supposedly stayed was surreal. It gave me chills to think about the layers of history in that very spot. Next, I made my way to the Ben Ezra Synago...

Today I visited the Mohammed Ali Palace in Manial, and it was like stepping into a fairytale of art, history, and elegance. From the moment I entered, I was captivated by the lush gardens surrounding the palace, filled with exotic plants and winding pathways that felt like they belonged in a storybook. The palace itself was breathtaking. Its unique blend of Islamic, Ottoman, and European architecture made every corner a feast for the eyes. The intricate details on the ceilings and walls were unlike anything I’d ever seen before—geometric patterns, delicate floral designs, and vibrant colors that seemed to tell a story of their own. The Golden Hall was a particular highlight for me. Its opulent chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and luxurious furniture made me feel as though I’d stepped into a royal banquet. Standing there, I tried to imagine the grand gatherings that must have taken place in that very room. Another room that left a lasting impression was the Throne Hall. The ornate carvings ...

Today, I spent the day exploring West El-Balad, and it was like stepping into a blend of the old and the new—a vibrant snapshot of Cairo's heart and soul. The energy of the place was infectious, with its bustling streets, historic architecture, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh coffee wafting from the cafés. The first thing that caught my attention was the beautiful, old European-style buildings. Many of them were adorned with intricate balconies and decorative details, reminiscent of a bygone era. I couldn’t help but stop and admire the charm they added to the neighborhood, even as they stood alongside modern storefronts and fast-paced city life. Walking down Talaat Harb Street was an adventure in itself. Shops lined both sides of the street, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and textiles to modern clothes and electronics. I couldn’t resist browsing through some of the small boutiques, where the shopkeepers welcomed me warmly and even offered a little haggling. Midday...

Today I visited the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and it was like stepping into a treasure chest of ancient wonders. From the moment I walked through the doors, I felt transported to another world—a world filled with pharaohs, gods, and mysteries. The first thing that caught my attention was the grand statue of Ramses II in the entrance hall. It was massive, and the intricate details of his face and posture were mesmerizing. It felt humbling to stand before something so ancient yet so full of life and power. As I wandered through the halls, I marveled at the golden artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb. His golden mask was even more breathtaking in person than I imagined. The craftsmanship was incredible—the intricate patterns, the radiant shine of the gold, and the piercing blue of the lapis lazuli. I found myself wondering about the artisans who made it and the young pharaoh who wore it. One of my favorite sections was the room filled with mummies. It was eerie yet fascinating to see ho...

Today was the day I finally visited the Pyramids of Giza! It felt surreal to stand in front of such monumental pieces of history. The morning air was crisp, and the sun was just starting to rise as I approached the site. The golden hues reflecting off the pyramids made the entire landscape look magical. The Great Pyramid of Khufu was the first to catch my eye. Its sheer size was overwhelming, even though I knew it would be big. Up close, the limestone blocks were weathered but still stood firm, a testament to their enduring strength. I tried to imagine the effort and skill it must have taken to build something so massive thousands of years ago. Walking around, I could see camels lined up, their colorful saddles adding vibrancy to the desert’s muted tones. I couldn’t resist taking a short camel ride. It felt bumpy but fun, and the view from atop was stunning—I could see the pyramids, the sand stretching endlessly, and even the bustling city of Cairo in the distance. The Sphinx was equal...

Today was one of those days that felt creatively fulfilling and oddly therapeutic. I spent the day working with ceramic paste, something I’ve been curious to try for a while. The idea of shaping something with my hands and bringing a blank piece of material to life was so appealing. It started with setting up my little workstation—just a table, some tools, and, of course, the ceramic paste. The texture was soft and cool to the touch, and it had this satisfying pliability that made it so easy to work with. I decided to start with something simple: a small trinket box and a flower-shaped ornament. The trinket box was challenging at first. Getting the sides smooth and even was harder than I thought, but I quickly got the hang of it. Patience was key! The flower ornament, on the other hand, was pure fun. I loved shaping the petals, layering them to make them look delicate and natural. I even added tiny grooves to mimic veins on the petals. By midday, I was covered in bits of dried paste an...