The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Walking through Cairo’s streets is like walking on the line between history and the present day. Each historical building is a window to a different era. A great deal of effort is being made to preserve the unique architectural character of Cairo through various development and renovation projects.

The Tiring Building: A Masterpiece Back to Life

In the heart of Cairo’s Attaba district, the historic Tiring Building is coming back to life following a redevelopment and restoration project. Designed by Austrian architect Oskar Horowitz, the building was completed between 1912 and 1913. Once part of a bustling commercial setting, its apartments were converted into warehouses and workshops.

The building is distinguished by its unique design, especially the giant ball that adorns its top, which is considered one of only three buildings in the world with the same design. The current restoration is not only working on restoring the building’s architectural beauty. Still, it is also part of a larger project to develop Attaba Square and organise street vendors, so that the building can once again take its place as an architectural masterpiece among Cairo’s historic buildings.

Azbakeya Garden: Cairo’s Green Icon

The park has a rich history dating back to the Mamluk era. Khedive Ismail established it in its modern form in 1872. It was a significant cultural centre that hosted concerts by renowned singers, including Umm Kulthum. The park is expected to open soon.

Azbakeya Garden in Cairo underwent a comprehensive development project implemented by Cairo Governorate in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing. The project aimed to revive the historic garden and restore it to its former glory as a significant cultural and artistic centre. The development work included the renovation of historical landmarks, such as the fountain and the hill, as well as the refurbishment of the Weapons Club building, the open theatre, and the cafeteria, while preserving the old trees.

Attaba and Mosky: New Visual Identity

In the centre of Attaba, a massive project is currently underway to develop and beautify the Attaba and Mosky markets. This project, which is 90% complete, focuses on restoring the area’s cultural heritage.

The development works include a complete renovation of the infrastructure and facilities on three main streets: Al-Asili, Al-Gawhari, and Youssef Naguib.

In addition to restoring the facade of the distinctive historic building, Primus. The project also includes the installation of unified shop signs to prevent visual distortion and present the area in an aesthetically pleasing and organised manner.

Azbakeya Book Market: A Revival of Culture

Azbakeya Book Market also got its share of renovations. A new cultural development features stalls bearing the names of prominent writers and thinkers, keeping the area connected to its rich history.

Korba: The Next Stage of Developments

The beautiful historical buildings aren’t just limited to Khedival Cairo. Heliopolis is also home to numerous beautiful heritage buildings. Renovation work recently started in Korba, following in the footsteps of downtown.

The project unifying shop signs extended to Korba. It aims to complement the aesthetic of the buildings. Korba is primarily a destination for pedestrians, with numerous grab-and-go restaurants and shops. That’s why suggestions to make it a pedestrian-only space have sprung forward. It’s unclear whether this will be the case, but it will undoubtedly be an improvement.