South Sinai Governorate facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
South Sinai Governorate
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South Sinai Governorate on the map of Egypt
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| Country |  Egypt |
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| Seat | El Tor (capital) | ||
| Area | |||
| • Total | 33,140 km2 (12,800 sq mi) | ||
| Population
(January 2018)
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| • Total | 104,000 | ||
| • Density | 3.14/km2 (8.1/sq mi) | ||
| Time zone | UTC+2 (EET) | ||
The South Sinai Governorate is a special area, or governorate, in Egypt. It is located on the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula. The main city and capital of this governorate is El Tor.
This area has the fewest people living in it compared to other governorates in Egypt. Even though it has fewer people, it is a very important place. It is known for its amazing natural beauty, rich history, and famous religious sites.
Contents
Exploring South Sinai's Geography
The South Sinai Governorate covers a large area of about 33,140 square kilometers. This makes it a bit smaller than the country of Belgium. It is mostly a desert region with tall mountains and beautiful coastlines.
Mountains and Deserts
The landscape here is very dramatic. You can find rugged mountains, deep valleys called wadis, and wide-open desert plains. The highest mountain in Egypt, Mount Sinai, is located in this governorate. This mountain is famous for its religious history.
Red Sea Coastline
The eastern and western sides of South Sinai touch the Red Sea. This sea is known for its clear blue waters and amazing coral reefs. The coastline has many sandy beaches and calm bays. This makes it a popular spot for tourists who love the ocean.
Important Places to Visit
South Sinai is home to several very old and important sites. These places tell stories of history, religion, and nature.
Saint Catherine's Monastery
One of the most famous places is Saint Catherine's Monastery. This is an Eastern Orthodox Church monastery. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. This means it is a place of special importance to the whole world. The monastery has been around for over 1,500 years. It is one of the oldest working monasteries in the world. It sits at the foot of Mount Sinai.
Other Historic Sites
- Raithu Monastery: This monastery is located in the capital city of El Tor. It is another ancient religious site in the area.
- Wadi Mukattab: This place is also known as the "Valley of Inscriptions." It has ancient writings carved into its rocks. These carvings were made by travelers many centuries ago.
- Wadi Feiran: This is the largest and widest wadi in the Sinai Peninsula. It is an oasis, meaning it has water and plants in the middle of the desert. It has been an important stop for travelers for thousands of years.
Cities and Towns of South Sinai
The governorate has several interesting cities and towns. Each one offers something different.
- Dahab: This town is known for its relaxed atmosphere. It is popular for diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Many young travelers enjoy its laid-back vibe.
- El Tor: As the capital, El Tor is the administrative center. It is also a port city on the Gulf of Suez. It has a long history and is home to Raithu Monastery.
- Nuweiba: Located on the Gulf of Aqaba, Nuweiba is a port and a resort town. It is a peaceful place with beautiful beaches and views of Saudi Arabia across the sea.
- Saint Catherine: This small town is nestled in the mountains. It is the closest town to Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai. It is a starting point for hikers and pilgrims.
- Sharm El Sheikh: This is the biggest and most famous resort city in South Sinai. It is known worldwide for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and amazing coral reefs. People come here for diving, water sports, and sunny holidays.
- Taba: Taba is a small town right on the border with Israel. It is known for its beautiful coastline and as a gateway to other parts of the Sinai.
Life and Economy
The people of South Sinai have a unique way of life. Many are Bedouin people, who have lived in the desert for centuries. They are known for their hospitality and knowledge of the desert.
Tourism is Key
Tourism is the most important part of the economy in South Sinai. Places like Sharm El Sheikh attract millions of visitors every year. These tourists come to enjoy the sun, sea, and historical sites. Diving, snorkeling, and desert safaris are very popular activities.
Other Activities
Besides tourism, some people work in fishing or in small local businesses. The governorate also has some mining activities, but tourism is definitely the biggest industry.
Images for kids
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Saint Catherine's Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
See also
In Spanish: Gobernación de Sinaí del Sur para niños
