‘Izbat al Burj: Where the Nile meets the Mediterranean

‘Izbat al Burj lies where the Nile meets the Mediterranean; Lake Manzala is east of the town. Tabia Arabi Fortress and traditional boatbuilding offer different perspectives on the place: its history and a working tradition passed down within the community. If you’re looking for a hotel in ‘Izbat al Burj, first consider which of these themes you want to focus on during your stay.

Between the River and the Lake

Its location at the end of the Nile, where it meets the Mediterranean, defines the geographical setting of ‘Izbat al Burj. Lake Manzala lies east of the town.

Tabia Arabi: The Structure of a Fortress

Tabia Arabi Fortress was built more than two hundred years ago by the French occupying forces on the ruins of ‘Izbat al Burj. Its three main features are defensive walls, a moat between them, and towers arranged at short intervals. Together, these elements give a clear picture of the structure of the complex.

Some sections are now in ruins. If you would like to include the fortress in your visit plans, check in advance whether a visit is currently possible. This lets you take its historical significance into account without assuming that access is available.

Boatbuilding as a Local Craft Tradition

Boatbuilding is a widespread traditional craft in ‘Izbat al Burj, passed down and practised within the community. Fishing boats and yachts are built and repaired on the banks of the Nile. The local craft therefore includes both building different types of boats and repairing them.

For travellers interested in craft traditions, this subject brings together two aspects: the passing down of knowledge within the community and the practical work on boats along the riverbank. Boatbuilding is therefore not just a historical reference, but a craft that is still practised. A cultural programme also included visits by young people to boatbuilding workshops, where they learned about the materials used and the time needed to build a complete vessel. If you are considering a workshop visit, ask in advance whether one is possible.

Fish Auction and Local Food Culture

A report from November 2022 described the fish auction as a daily event: it began after the morning prayer, lasted about two hours, and ended at sunrise. The report mentioned buyers and visitors from Damietta and other Egyptian governorates who appreciated fresh fish and fish dishes. These details describe the routine reported at the time. If the auction is important to your plans, ask locally about current times.

Other Regional Perspectives in Ad-Daqahliyya

In the wider destination of Ad-Daqahliyya, the seaside resort of Gamasa lies in the north of the region and stretches for 7.5 kilometres along the Mediterranean coast. Gamasa is described as having clear water, soft sand, and a high iodine content. This is a distinct regional focus alongside the crafts and fortress of ‘Izbat al Burj.

Lake Manzala, also east of ‘Izbat al Burj, offers another cultural connection: it includes several islands, among them Ibn Salam, which has a shrine to Abdullah ibn Salam. Ad-Daqahliyya’s religious and historical heritage also includes the Monastery of Saint Dimiana in the village of Dimiana, Markaz Bilqās, with five churches, including an archaeological church in the Gothic style, as well as Al-Mawafi Mosque in Mansura. It was founded by as-Salih Najm ad-Din Ayyub in 583 AH/1187 CE. In Mit Damsis in Markaz Aja, the Church of Saint George consists of two buildings, one of which is more than 1,600 years old.

Choose the Right Search Location

Search specifically for ‘Izbat al Burj if you want to focus on the town, its location on the Nile, boatbuilding, and Tabia Arabi. If Gamasa or another place in the wider destination of Ad-Daqahliyya is your destination, tailor your search accordingly. Check the specific location listed for each hotel before you decide.

Discover more destinations: Ras El-Bar.

Go to the wider travel guide: Damietta.