1. Tahrir Square
Tahrir Square, located in downtown Cairo, is one of Egypt’s most important and famous squares. It was originally called Ismailia Square after Khedive Ismail, but its name was later changed to Tahrir (Liberation) Square after it became a symbol of revolutionary events and the Egyptian people’s liberation, particularly following the 1919 Revolution against British occupation.
Its significance also lies in its location, as it connects several key streets and areas in Cairo, including El-Bostan Street, Mohamed Mahmoud Street, Talaat Harb Street, and Kasr El-Nil Street.
Key Landmarks:
The Egyptian Museum
Mogamma El-Tahrir (Government Complex)
Omar Makram Mosque
Sadat Metro Station
2. Ataba Square
Ataba Square, in downtown Cairo, is one of the most vital and famous squares in Egypt. It is widely known for its bustling commercial activity, hosting a wide variety of shops ranging from clothing and footwear to electronics and household goods. Several important streets branch from it, such as Abdel Aziz Street and Al-Azhar Street.
Historically, Ataba Square dates back to the Ottoman era. It was once known as Blue Ataba Square, named after the threshold (ataba) of Taher Pasha’s palace. Later, when the palace passed to Abbas I, the blue threshold was demolished and replaced with a green one, giving the area the name Green Ataba Square. Over time, the word “Green” was dropped, and it became known simply as Ataba Square.
Key Landmarks:
The National Theatre
Children’s Theatre
Azbakeya Wall (book market)
Hammam El-Talata (historic bathhouse)
3. El-Mahkama Square (Heliopolis)
El-Mahkama Square (Court Square) is one of the most famous squares in Heliopolis. It is named after the Heliopolis Court located within the square. The square is considered one of the most prestigious areas in Heliopolis and is notable for its prime location near several key streets and districts.
Key Landmarks:
Due to its strategic position, El-Mahkama Square is surrounded by many important streets and neighboring squares, such as:
El-Hegaz Street
Abu Bakr El-Seddik Street
Heliopolis Square
Safir Square
El-Tagnid Square