A fascinating and highly original contribution to the study of Egypt’s religious folklore. First published in Cairo during World War II, The Moulids of Egypt is a study of moulids, the popular Egyptian religious festivals celebrated by both Muslims and Christians in the first half of the twentieth century. The book talks in detail about the secular side of moulids, where sports, games, theatres, dancing, and laughter were as much part of the festivals as the religious processions and the whirling of dervishes. Some of the rites and customs analyzed here date from as far back as the Pharaonic period, but the moulids are gradually dying out; many of the 126 festivals described in Moulids of Egypt have since faded away, making the book of lasting interest.

Why do countries celebrate defining religious moments or significant events in their history, and how and why do their leaders select certain events for commemoration and not others? This book is the first systematic study of the role of celebrations and public holidays in the Arab Middle East from the fall of the Ottoman Empire to the present. By tracing the history of the modern nation-state through successive generations, the book shows how Arab rulers have used public holidays as a means of establishing their legitimacy and, more broadly, a sense of national identity. Most recently, some states have attempted to nationalize religious festivals in the face of the Islamic revival. With its many illustrations and copious examples from across the region, the book offers an alternative perspective on the history and politics of the Middle East.

Provides practical advice on planning a trip to Egypt; describes points of interest in each section of the country; and includes information on restaurants, nightspots, shops, and lodging.

The Rough Guide to Egypt is your essential travel guide to this ancient land. Fully revised and updated, the guide provides unparalleled coverage of everything from Egypt's tombs, temples and pyramids to diving in the Red Sea, desert safaris and cruising the Nile in style. With accurate maps, plans, colour spreads and beautiful colour photography throughout; you'll find informed practical advice on what to see and do in Egypt, plus honest reviews of the best hotels, bars, clubs, shops and restaurants for all budgets. Adventurous, informative and opinionated, The Rough Guide to Egypt puts the facts at your fingertips, introducing you to the country's best reefs and beaches, the latest discoveries from antiquity, the remotest oases, nightlife only locals know and much, much more. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to Egypt

The Rough Guide to Egypt is your essential travel guide to this ancient land. Fully revised and updated, the guide provides unparalleled coverage of everything from Egypt's tombs, temples and pyramids to diving in the Red Sea, desert safaris and cruising the Nile in style. With accurate maps, plans, colour spreads and beautiful colour photography throughout; you'll find informed practical advice on what to see and do in Egypt, plus honest reviews of the best hotels, bars, clubs, shops and restaurants for all budgets. Adventurous, informative and opinionated, The Rough Guide to Egypt puts the facts at your fingertips, introducing you to the country's best reefs and beaches, the latest discoveries from antiquity, the remotest oases, nightlife only locals know and much, much more. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to Egypt