The Pyramid Road, also known as El-Haram Street by the locals, is Giza’s oldest street. It was established in the 4th century B.C. by the final ancient Egyptian king “Pharaoh Nektanebu II”. It was a tree avenue leading to the Giza pyramids, where his grandfather’s tombs from the 4th dynasty can be found.
El-Haram Street or The Pyramids Road runs from a location near the river channel – today’s Giza square – to the city’s closest desert, the Giza desert, in the middle of the rich area of the Nile’s western bank. The pyramids are known as the Giza Pyramids because of being on the west bank of the Nile River which is Giza governorate.
Alexander the Great invaded Egypt and established Alexandria as his capital. He didn’t care for Cairo or Giza, which is why he didn’t touch El-Haram Street of the pyramids, and even his leader Ptolomy, when he ascended the Egyptian kingdom, didn’t add to El-Haram Street. And the road remained a tree avenue leading to the tombs of the ancient Kings.
In 641 A.D., the Arabs conquered Egypt and built the city of Foustat as the Egyptian capital, complete with a large mosque known as Amr Ibn El-Aas on the Nile’s eastern bank. When the Fatimids established their capital in Cairo, it was likewise on the Nile’s eastern bank. Giza and El-Haram Street remained unchanged as a result, except for the private additions.
Rich Pachas erected lovely villas and luxury residences and buildings along the avenue throughout the Ottoman period, transforming it into a thoroughfare with buildings on both sides. Between world wars, the development of new structures on the Boulevard proceeded until 1952, when the Egyptian Revolution of the Free Officers occurred.
Following the 1952 revolution, the government began nationalizing these structures, and as the country became more populous, the majority of these structures were sold to individuals who converted them into money-making projects, the most common of which were nightclubs and cabarets for belly dancing. The Boulevard is known across the Middle East for belly dancing and nightclubs, and it draws visitors from all over the world to witness Egyptian belly dancers.
Every year, El-Haram Street in Giza becomes a bustling hub of activity, particularly attracting visitors from the Arab Gulf region. These Arab men, drawn by the allure of the vibrant nightlife, seek out the enchanting performances of belly dancers and the companionship of night girls. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as the rhythmic beats of traditional music mingle with the sounds of laughter and conversation, creating a captivating scene that epitomizes the allure of the area.
Even though prostitution is officially illegal in Egypt, the demand persists, and many of these men are undeterred by the legal constraints. The proximity of El-Haram Street to the iconic Pyramids of Giza adds an air of mystique to their escapades, as they indulge in the rich cultural heritage while pursuing their desires. The allure of the streets is not merely about physical companionship but also about the experience of a different culture, the thrill of anonymity, and the temporary escape from the constraints of their daily lives.
As they navigate through the neon-lit avenues, the men often find themselves immersed in a world that contrasts sharply with their more conservative societies. Here, the vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and tantalizing melodies create an intoxicating environment where they can explore their fantasies. The belly dancers, with their mesmerizing movements and captivating performances, draw crowds, while the night girls offer a glimpse into an experience many may only dream of back home.
While the dynamics of this underground scene may be complex, it reflects a broader narrative about desire, cultural exchange, and the pursuit of pleasure in a place steeped in history and tradition. The paradox of seeking out something deemed illegal only adds to the allure, making El-Haram Street a focal point for those looking to explore the intersection of culture, freedom, and escapism in a city that is both ancient and modern.
The street is 7.5 kilometers long and runs east-west. The Mena House Hotel, which is located near the entrance to the Giza pyramids, is one of the most well-known attractions of the neighborhood. The structure was formerly a palace built by Egyptian ruler Khedive Ismael when he chose to throw a great party to commemorate the inauguration of the Suez Canal and invite all of Europe’s kings and queens. However, that palace was erected specifically for the princess of France, “Eugenie,” since Khedive Ismael adored her.
