Berber Town with Links to Alexander the Great
Western Desert, Egypt
Just 60km east of the Libyan border Siwa presents more adventurous travellers with yet another opportunity to see something they did expect in this country of contrasts. Associations with Alexander the Great, an Oracle, the ancient town of Shali and friendly Berber people all make a journey well-worthwhile for those with time.
Background
2,700 years ago the Oracle of Amun at Siwa gave seekers of knowledge advice even attracting the attention of Alexander the Great who visited and heard of his success in the battles which lay ahead of him. It is clear from archaeological investigations that the Berber population that inhabit the region today are the descendants of people who were present here at the time of Alexander and for some 7,000 years before him. This long history and its associated culture gives Siwa a distinctly North African rather than Egyptian feel.