Today was a busy day in and around Cairo. We visited the Pyramid of Teti. The outside of the pyramid is unimpressive, but the carvings inside are beautiful and describe the life of the nobleman for whom it was created.

We next visited the tomb of Kagemni. The small tomb contains his sarcophagus. 

We visited  the Sakkara Step Pyramid. The oldest pyramid was an experimental design and led to the creation of the great pyramids that are seen in other places in Egypt. This pyramid is part of a temple complex with views across the desert toward other tombs.

Before lunch, we stopped at a Sakkara carpet school. These government financed schools in the town of Sakkara were created to teach carpet weaving to the children of this poor town. The businesses train young people in a skill that will give them work while also keeping the carpet weaving craft alive. 

Finally, we visited the Mosque of Muhammad Ali in the old district of Cairo. The alabaster walls and original Turkish chandeliers contribute to the beauty of the interior. We were lucky to hear the call for afternoon prayer came just as we were leaving the building.

 

The weather reminded us that we were in the Sahara with a windy, dusty day.