Sharqia Governorate, Governorate in northern Egypt
Scharqia is a governorate in the northeastern part of the country with Zagazig as its capital. The area stretches from the Nile Delta to the Sinai Peninsula and includes agricultural lands, smaller towns, and villages connected by canals and roads.
The area served for centuries as the eastern defense zone of the country against invasions from Asia. In the Middle Ages it was merged with the Dakahlia province until it formed an independent administrative unit again in 1315.
The region takes its name from the Arabic word for east and has always marked the eastern gateway of the country. Visitors today still see the village structures with markets where farmers sell their harvest, while poultry and fish from local farms shape the eating habits of residents.
Most places lie along the main roads leading east from Cairo, making access straightforward. Those who want to explore the rural areas should expect longer travel times, as many villages sit away from the major routes.
Nearly four out of five inhabitants live in the countryside rather than in towns, making this one of the most heavily rural provinces in the country. New Salhia and 10th of Ramadan host large industrial zones that form a contrast to the surrounding farmland.
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