El Fayoum is the capital of El Fayoum Governorate in the
Western Desert
of Egypt , about 130 km southwest of Cairo . The name of Fayum is derived from the Coptic word 'Phiom' , which means lake or sea since it was enclosing a sea in the Prehistoric period . The city is one of the most preferable places not only for foreigners but also for Egyptians for its natural beauty , magnificent weather , and its monuments that date back to several ages throughout history . Thus the main economic resources for the city are local and foreign tourism , administrative services , and trade .
On top of the monuments that date back to the ancient Egyptian period come the unique obelisk of rounded top with a cleft of gold statue of Ra . From the
Mamluk
period , one can find Qaitbay Mosque that is highly admired for its magnificent style of decoration . Waterwheels that date back to the Greek period is another tourist attraction in El Fayum .
Egyptians usually prefer visiting El Fayum Oasis for enjoying the tranquility and good weather away from the noise and crowd of Cairo .
Lake Qaroun
is the most preferable destination for its crystal clear water and the availability
of affordable means of transportations for reaching it .
