Fayoum is located 61 miles southwest of Cairo - only a two-hour drive away, but its peacefulness contrasts starkly with all the activity in Cairo . It is not a true oasis, since it depends on Nile water instead of underground springs or wells. The lush greenery of Fayoum stretches along Lake Qaroun , Egypt 's largest saltwater lake, bordered by semi-nomadic Bedouin settlements and fishing villages. Exotic birds thrive here, and cotton, clover, tomatoes, medicinal plants and fruit are all grown in the rich soil of Fayoum.

The local souk in Fayoum City specializes in copperware, spices and gold jewelry. There is also a special pottery market there once a week.

The capital of Fayoum, Medinet, was originally named Crocodilopolis, and was the center of worship of the crocodile god, Sobek. It appears that in ancient Medinet, crocodiles were adorned with gold and were fed honey cakes and meat by the priests.

A great stone obelisk was recently reconstructed and erected in Medinet. It was originally built in honor of Senusert I, in Abgig, during the 12 th Dynasty. It was discovered on the ground in two pieces in the 18 th century, and is now an
impressive landmark in Medinet.

Of particular interest in Fayoum are the Sawaqqies - huge, ancient waterwheels made of wood that still function there today, driven solely by the force of the stream. Approximately 200 of these waterwheels are located throughout the region. Mangos, palm trees and willows surround the Seven Waterwheels, a Fayoum landmark.

Fayoum offers a lovely pastoral area, rich in antiquities of the Middle Kingdom and Greco-Roman periods. Major points of interest include the pyramid complex of Amenhat III in Hawara; the Pyramid of Senusert II in Lahun; the ruins at Medinet Madi, Qasr Qaroun, and Karanis; and Kirn Oshim, a small museum displaying artifacts found throughout the area.

ayoum is a popular vacation spot for both Egyptians and Europeans. Here, at the edge of the desert, you can sail, windsurf, swim and fish. There are also hot springs at Ain al-Siliyin, and waterfalls at Wadi al Rayan, suitable for swimming and picnics.