A Guide to the Nubian People of Egypt
The history of the Nubian people in Egypt is an important part of the cultural identity. Egyptians are a blend of many different cultures and races. They have facial features and skin tones similar to those of most African races. It is a mistake to think of them as only Middle Eastern, Arab, or Mediterranean. The Nubians are a distinct ethnic group in Egypt. They live in the southern highlands of Egypt and the northern parts of Sudan. Here is everything you need to know about their history in Egypt.
History of the Nubian People in Egypt
Who exactly are the Nubians?
The Nubians are one of the world’s oldest ethnic groups. They have a rich history and culture. The Nubians descended from the central Nile Valley, which many consider a cradle of civilization.
They played an important role in ancient Egypt. During the Medieval period, they converted to Christianity and formed three kingdoms: Nobatia, Makuria, and Alodia. Today, the Nubians practice Islam, but you can still find them in their original homeland. They live in southern Egypt and northern Sudan. You can also find Nubians in Kenya, which is well-known for its Nubian historical sites and African safaris.
The Nubian Languages
While the Nubians live in two different countries, it is important to note that they have their own culture and languages. Nobiin, Kenzi, Midob, Birgid, and Kordofan Nubian are the five modern Nubian languages spoken. The languages are similar, but they differ depending on where the Nubians live. Interestingly, Egypt used Nubian speakers as code talkers in the Yom Kippur War against Israel due to their different languages.
The Nubians played an important role in ancient Egypt’s rise and success, and they remain an important part of the country and Egyptian tourism today.
Nubians in Ancient Egypt
The Nubians and Egyptians had a fascinating but somewhat complicated relationship. They were neighbors who, as previously stated, traded with one another. They have, however, conquered each other over the years. The first mention of Nubians in ancient Egypt was found in Egyptian trading accounts around 2300 BCE.
At this time, the Nubians traded cattle, gold, carnelian, ivory, hardwood, incense, and dates with their Egyptian neighbors. Farming was a common way of life, and a herd of cattle represented wealth and status.
Egypt’s Middle Kingdom and Nubia
During Egypt’s Middle Kingdom (2040–1640 BC), the Egyptian Kingdom began expanding into Nubia. They took control of trade routes and built forts along the Nile. There was little interaction between the two cultures at that time, but it was likely peaceful.
The Egyptians knew the Nubians as fierce warriors, especially with a bow and arrow. They called them the Medjay. Originally, this term referred to a region of Nubia. Over time, it came to describe an elite paramilitary force within the Egyptian army. While Nubians were famous for their fighting skills, ancient Egyptians also employed them in many other roles. They worked as attendants, merchants, and temple employees throughout Egyptian society.
Ancient Egypt’s Nubian 25th Dynasty
It was during this period that the Nubians, known as Kushites at the time, conquered Egypt after years of Egyptian rule. For the most part, the Nubian pharaohs and rulers were assimilated into Egyptian culture. While the Nubians brought some of their culture to Egypt, they largely maintained the same governing rules, artistic style, temples, and religious traditions.
During this time, the Nubians also revived the pyramid-building tradition. The Nubians ruled Egypt (or parts of Egypt) for a little more than 100 years before being driven out by the Assyrians. Despite the fact that both cultures took turns conquering each other, history shows that the Egyptian-Nubian relationship was actually quite peaceful. The two cultures had a lot of cultural exchange and marriage agreements. Even before the 25th Dynasty, many Egyptian Pharaohs had Nubian blood coursing through their veins.
Nubians Today
After the Assyrians defeated them, the Nubians returned to their homeland. They have essentially remained in the same area. You can still find them there today. As Arabs moved into Egypt and Sudan, Nubians converted to Islam. They had previously converted to Christianity during the medieval period.
Nubia is split between Sudan and Egypt today. This happened near the end of the colonial era. At that time, only about a quarter of the Nubian population lived in modern Egypt.
Time has not been kind to the Nubians. The construction of the Aswan High Dam forced many of them to leave their homes and villages along the Nile. Additionally, Egyptian Nubians face more socioeconomic disadvantages than other Egyptian cultures. They are often victims of racism.
History of the Nubian People in Egypt: Visiting Egypt’s Nubian Villages
Today, the majority of Nubian villages in Egypt are found near Aswan and Elephantine Island. These villages are distinct from other Egyptian villages and can often be identified by the bright, vibrant colors of their houses. While the Nubians who live here are Egyptian citizens, they maintain their own culture.
Aswan’s Nubian Village
You can visit Nubian villages during your vacation. This is a great way to learn about their history. Nubian village visits are not always in vacation packages. You can request a visit from your private guide.
The best villages are near Aswan. You can walk through the streets there. You can shop at local markets. Look for loose-leaf teas, spices, and handmade scarves. You can also learn about daily life. This is a great way to learn about Nubian history. It also helps the local people financially. This is especially true if you buy souvenirs.
