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SIWA


 Intro

Ruins of Shali

Around Shali

The town

The oasis

Gebel al-Mawta

Alexander's Oracle

Temple of Amon

Cleopatra's pool

Gebel Dakrur

Tourist festival

Fatnis Island

Alexander's tomb

Birket Siwa

Birket Zeitun

Well of Abu Shuruf

Sunset over Libyan Desert

Bir Wahed

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Paradise disappearing?

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SIWA /
Ruins of Shali

The ruins of Shali dates back to the 13th century, and was in full use until 3 days of heavy rain destroyed it in 1926. The houses were originally built to last a couple of decades, then be rebuilt or fixed after light rain. The building material was kershef, a mixture of salt and clay. It is not water-proof.

As seen from Siwa town, the ruins of Shali, Siwa, Egypt

As seen from Siwa town, the ruins of Shali.

Shali is supposed to have risen 60 metres above the ground level of the oasis, helped by the two mountains here. It must have been a fabulous sight. It still is, but none of 5 story houses still stand.
Shali today offers great view, the ruinous state have created many fine views. But surprisingly, you will find that some of the houses are still inhabited, although this only applies to the ones at the foot of Shali.

Ruins of Shali, Siwa, Egypt

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