It is the capital of the homonymous governorate, on the western bank of the Nile River. This city, located 225 km. south of Cairo is called by the locals the Bride of Upper Egypt because it lies right on the border between the kingdoms of Upper and Lower Egypt.

It is famous in the nation for being the main producer of soap and perfumes, and also a processor of sugar. Prosperous for years, its economy was formerly based on the harvest of cotton, and those years corresponded to some elegant houses that added to an already charming landscape.

A few kilometers from Al-Minya are the largest known cemetery in the world. Its name is the City of Death, and it belongs to Christian and Muslim families.

This city on the banks of the Nile is truly an excellent place to enjoy the beauties of Egypt far from the saturation caused by the crowds of tourists who come to the big cities every year. Its streets are a temple for art, and its Greek fountains recall the times of Greek and Roman rule and the strong heritage they left in Al-Minya.

Most important places to visit in Al Minya:

Beni Hassan

which is the site of almost 40 tombs of the 11th and 12th dynasties. These tombs are the Tomb of Baquet, governor and soldier, the second for his son Khety, the third for Amenemhat and the fourth for Khunumhotep, the successor of King Amenemhat.

Tuna El Gebel

which was the cultural center where the pilgrim’s paid homage to God Thot.

Tell Al Amarna

where King Ikhnaton and his wife Queen Nefertiti founded this city as a dedication to the worship of the new god Aton.