Egypt is like an onion. “Oh?” I can hear you saying. “Alright, tell me. Why is Egypt like an onion?”
Okay, I’ll tell you. It’s the layers, people. On the outer layer you can find the modern high rises on the Corniche, the stately apartment buildings downtown, the endless villas of the suburbs. Near the center of the onion are, of course, the pyramids of Giza, the temples of Karnak, the tombs of Thebes. Head back toward the outer layers of this metaphorical onion and you will find the architectural landmarks of the Muhammed Ali dynasty or, for us laypeople, the period from the 19th to the mid-20th century.
(Courtyards – one of the many architectural delights found in the Manial Palace compound)
One of these architectural masterpieces is the Manial Palace. Are you one of those people who enjoy home tours? If so, you are really going to love this place. Come on, let’s get started planning your trip.
(Grab a few friends and get on over to the Manial Palace)
Transportation: Situated on Roda Island, the Manial Palace is easily accessible by private car, Uber, and minibus. For those of you eager to try your hand at public transportation, this is the perfect excuse. Hop on a bus headed to/from Tahrir and get off here.
(Go by private car, Uber, minibus, or fishing boat – take your pick)
What to expect: As always, Egyptian visitors pay a nominal entrance fee, whereas foreigners pay more – and, in fact, may be expected to pay via credit card. Don’t let this upset you; honestly, the place is more than worth the entrance fee.
(The Manial Palace and Museum entrance gate)
The Manial Palace is suitable for families with children of all ages. Those interested in architecture and interior design will get their fill. Each room of the palace, filled to the eye teeth with period furniture and, amazingly, crowned by a unique and intricately designed ceiling, will impress even the toughest customer in your crew.
(Each in the palace has its own unique ceiling)
That said, kids who do not fully appreciate the astonishing integration of traditional European and Islamic architectural styles will certainly enjoy the meticulously manicured grounds surrounding the palace and museum. Hungry kids can grab a bite at the small snack stand located within the compound. Kids who “gotta go” can find relief in the moderately clean restrooms.
(If for nothing else, come for the garden!)
The palace compound boasts a “Hunting Lodge Museum.” This is a fancy name for a collection of stuffed animal trophies. My kids find the museum unsettling and, ever since our first visit to the Manial Palace, have avoided the taxidermy collection completely. You do what works for you. The Hunting Lodge Museum may just be your kids’ favorite part of the entire excursion.
(The Hunting Lodge Museum)
Listen. I weigh all the factors when planning a field trip with my kids, and believe me when I say that this outing has a comfortable risk-reward ratio. It takes little to no effort to get there, and “customer” satisfaction is almost 100 percent guaranteed. I’ll see you there!
