Lake Qarun Protectorate - El Fayoum

Lake Qarun Protectorate - El Fayoum

Introduction to lake Qarun Protectorate

Lake Qarun protectorate in Egypt is located in the El Fayoum governorate and was established in the year 1989. The area it covers is about 1358 square kilometers and it’s a type of wetland. The place is easily reachable from Cairo which is located 9- kms from here. The Lake is among the most ancient natural lakes on earth and is a part of the pre existing Morris Lake. The large variety of sea, river and continent fossils have helped the place in becoming globally renowned.

The fossils here date back to about 40 million years. The fossil of the oldest monkey on earth Egyptobethks were also found here dating back to the Oligocene era and also some petrified trees from that period can be found here. Also the area is a home to a large variety of amphibians, reptiles and mammals which make a major part of the environmental system of this area. The presence of historical monuments has helped Lake Quran in emerging as a cultural heritage which attracts a large number of tourists every year.

More about Qarun Protectorate

The place is known popularly for its wetland of international importance for the many water birds. The 276 feedan islet here acts as the best spot for the reproduction of birds especially the flamingo. It helps in incubating and protecting the newly born birds on the lake islets during the time of reproduction. Recognized globally as an important bird area about thousands of migratory birds rest here during the winter season, Some species include Flamingos, grey herons, spoonbills and many duck species, to name a few, flock to the lake during the fall.

The many monuments nearby

The protectorate is a natural wonder as well as many monuments can be found here including As-Sagha (goldsmiths) palace dating back to the Middle Kingdom era and located at the northern part. Three kilometers from here is the Abu Lifa Monastery constructed during the monastic period on an elevated place to keep monks secured from the Romans. The Greek monuments of the area include the old town of Skitnopius, which was once the departure point for the south desert-bound trade caravans. For those who wish to stay nearby several eco lodges, as well as two 5 star hotels are available in Fayoum.

The importance of Lake Qarun

Lake Qarun protectorate in Egypt is among the most treasured and richest landmarks of the country. The place is blessed with not just the beauty and importance for birds but also for its unmatched historical, natural and scientific importance. Gebal Qatarni near the northern part of the lake is said to have the most complete fossil records of marshland mammals and terrestrial primates on earth important for understanding the evolution of human, the area is also being considered as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

Lake Qarun is especially known for the Flamingo birds and the protectorate provides food, shelter and breeding grounds for a wide variety of resident and migrating birds, including several endangered species.