Monday, 25 May 2026
El Quseir: “City of the Sea and History” celebrated at NMEC
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) recently transformed its grand halls into a vibrant celebration of heritage as it hosted the eleventh installment of the “Egypt’s Governorates” initiative, focusing on the city of El Quseir.
The event, “El Quseir: City of the Sea and History,” was organized in partnership with the “Destinations and Stories” project, aiming to showcase the enduring natural and cultural tapestry of El Quseir, a picturesque Red Sea city where ancient traditions and maritime legacy blend seamlessly.
Nestled on the Red Sea coast, El Quseir is more than a charming port—it is a living archive of civilization. For thousands of years, its shores welcomed pharaohs and pilgrims, traders and travelers. From ancient Egypt, through the Roman era, to Islamic times, El Quseir stood as a vital hub for both commerce and pilgrimage, serving as a bridge connecting continents and cultures.
Dr. El-Tayeb Abbas, CEO of NMEC, expressed the museum’s commitment to fostering deeper connections with Egypt’s multifaceted heritage. “El Quseir is a living testament to history, culture, and the enduring traditions that shape communities. Through events like ‘Egypt’s Governorates,’ we hope to bring the stories of these remarkable cities to people everywhere, showing the richness and authenticity of Egyptian heritage.”
Visitors were enchanted by an array of live demonstrations and interactive workshops. Artisans from El Quseir delighted guests with the intricate craft of hand-woven carpets, leatherwork, delicate shell jewelry, and traditional embroidery. Attendees dove into hands-on sessions, learning the secrets behind these time-honored crafts that have sustained the city’s cultural identity for centuries.
A stunning photographic exhibition painted a vivid portrait of El Quseir’s landscapes, historic edifices, bustling bazaars, and daily life, bringing the city’s character closer to those who have never walked its streets.
The event shone a spotlight on El Quseir’s traditional dress, with live showcases revealing the city’s colorful garments and their stories. Enthusiasts marveled at a workshop dedicated to the making of the “simsimeya,” a traditional stringed instrument replete with music and local tales, echoing the city’s seafaring soul.
Celebrating the intangible, the Ababda tribes—a people indigenous to the region—shared their heritage through henna art, culinary showcases (including the beloved “’Aish Hooh”), and cultural beverages such as the aromatic “Gabbana” coffee. Their traditional dances and folk songs added a joyful rhythm to the celebration.
Inspired young visitors engaged in creative workshops, painting marine-inspired designs on fabric under the guidance of artist Germin George, while others joined master weaver Zeinab Shehata in replicating traditional loom techniques. These activities offered children and youth a way to connect with and continue their ancestral legacies.
As the day concluded, the museum honored all participants for their vital role in breathing life into El Quseir’s heritage and inspiring a fresh appreciation for local culture. Dr. Abbas reaffirmed NMEC’s pledge to ensure that the “Egypt’s Governorates” initiative will continue to offer the world new perspectives on Egypt’s living heritage, from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea and beyond.
