Cairo Tower, Cairo

Cairo Tower, an emblematic landmark of Egypt's sprawling capital, stands tall as a testament to modern architectural ingenuity and a symbol of Egypt's progress in the mid-20th century. The tower, which rises to a height of 187 meters, was completed in 1961 and has since dominated the Cairo skyline with its distinctive lattice-work design inspired by the lotus plant, an ancient symbol of Egypt.

Located on Gezira Island in the River Nile, the Cairo Tower offers a panoramic view of Cairo that is unparalleled, stretching from the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the modern cityscape. This makes it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike, providing a unique vantage point from which to appreciate the city's vastness and diversity.

The tower's design was conceived by the Egyptian architect Naoum Shebib, and it stands out as an example of the modernist architectural style that was prevalent during its time of construction. It was built with reinforced concrete, a popular material of the era, which allowed for both the height and the intricate open-work patterns that characterize its façade.

Visitors to the Cairo Tower can ascend to the observation deck via an elevator, where they will find a circular viewing platform that provides 360-degree views of Cairo. At the top, there is also a rotating restaurant and café where guests can dine or enjoy a drink while taking in the stunning cityscape.

The tower is not only a tourist attraction but also a cultural icon, often featured in films and literature. It has played a significant role in Cairo's history; it was famously rumored to have been financed by the United States as a bribe, which President Gamal Abdel Nasser then used to construct the tower as an act of defiance.