Damanhur, Capital city in Beheira Governorate, Egypt
Damanhur is a larger city in the western Nile Delta region, located about 160 kilometers northwest of Cairo and 70 kilometers from Alexandria along the Mahmudiya Canal. The city features a major mosque as one of its most notable structures and several cotton processing facilities that shape the local economy.
The settlement was originally known as Behdet and later became Time-en-Hor before serving as the capital of the 15th nome of Lower Egypt during Roman times. This long history shows how the settlement in the Nile Delta gained importance over many centuries.
The city hosts two major celebrations that draw visitors from across the region: the Moulid of Sheikh Abu Rish in November and a Jewish festival in January at the Abu Khatzeira shrine. These events show how different communities gather here to honor their shared traditions.
The best time to visit is during the two major festivals when public life becomes especially active and it is easy to connect with the community. Otherwise, the city is easy to explore on foot, and its proximity to the canal and surrounding agricultural areas makes it a good starting point for exploring the Nile Delta region.
The name comes from ancient Egyptian and literally means 'the settlement of Horus,' reflecting the place's deep connection to ancient Egyptian mythology. This etymological link shows how the country's history remains woven into the names of settlements today.
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