Top ten things to do in Mansoura

Mansoura, the capital of the Dakahlia governorate and home to the famous Mansoura University, was named after a victory over France’s King Louis IX during the Seventh Crusade. Here are the best things to do in the city.

This building, previously known as Dar Ibn Lockman, is where King Louis IX was imprisoned after his capture in 1250. It still has his toilet and other personal items, as well as arms and armour of the defeated Crusaders. A series of large paintings depict the battle during which some 30,000 of the king’s men fell.
Port Said Street al-Mouafy Sq
www.fineart.gov.eg

Built by an Italian architect in 1928, this impressive palace is one of the most remarkable in Italianate style outside of Italy itself. If you are interested in architecture, add a tour of the many villas of the prosperous Touryel area to any visit.
El Gomhoria Street

Mansoura lies on the Damietta Branch of the Nile and a stroll by the water or a boat trip is a great way to see the city’s waterfront, which is also home to a children’s amusement park. Across the river is Talkh and you can cross over one of the many bridges to visit that side of the city.

Mansoura’s long main street is the place to go shopping thanks to many gold shops and clothes stores.

The upmarket El-Gam’aa district around Mansoura University is the place for the very latest in fashion, as well as fast food outlets such as KFC, Pizza Hut and CookDoor. The El-Gam’aa Plaza Mall offers a wide choice under one roof.

Open 24 hours a day, this restaurant is a favourite with locals thanks to its delicious specialities such as foul and falafel.
30 El-Galaa Street

Founded by King Al-Saleh Negm El Din Ayoub in 583 AH (1187 AD), this noted mosque on Port Saeed Avenue may now be hemmed in by modern buildings, but its elegant minaret remains as a landmark to history. Capitvating souk Al-Khawagat is nearby.
Port Saeed Avenue

These gardens along the river are the place to stroll and people watch or just sit and enjoy the sunshine. Find a friend who is a member of the Geziret El-Ward Club for a chance to meet everyone who is anyone in Mansoura, listen to the latest music, or just enjoy the sports facilities.

The largest mosque in Mansoura was inaugurated in 1974 by President Anwar El Sadat. The beautiful gardens around it add to its striking beauty and elegance. A renovation in 2007 has kept the mosque one of the city’s most prized possessions.
El-Gaish Street

Named for the many foreigners who traded here in the 1950s, this market is the place for bargains in clothes, shoes and homeware such as pots and brass. It’s also the place to stock up for any upcoming wedding.