Siwa Oasis
A remote oasis in the western desert, home to the Oracle of Amun that Alexander the Great consulted in 331 BCE.
Practised and told of here
Best time: October to April.
Siwa lies near the Libyan border and has its own Amazigh language, Siwi. The Temple of the Oracle on the rock of Aghurmi was known in the Greek world.
The oracle
The god Amun, whom Greeks identified with Zeus, spoke through a priest, and the god's statue was carried on a boat borne by priests, and its movements were read as answers. Alexander went there after taking Egypt and, according to ancient sources, was greeted as son of the god. Historians disagree on what he asked and what was said.
Siwa today
The people of Siwa keep their own customs, including a festival of reconciliation in autumn, and Sufi lodges. The saltwater lakes and old fortress town of Shali are tourist draws, and visitors are asked to respect local rules on dress.
Visiting
Siwa is conservative: dress modestly. Women's photographs should only be taken with permission.
A respectful visit to Siwa Oasis
Living communities are not a show. Ask before photographing a person or a ceremony, and follow local rules.
- The Temple of the Oracle at Aghurmi See the ruined temple on the hill.
- Shali Fortress Walk the old mud-brick town.
- The Cleopatra spring Visit the pool in the palms.
Written by the EveryJaadu desk with AI assistance. Background: "Siwa Oasis" on Wikipedia. Opening hours, markets and ceremonies change; check locally before travelling. If something is wrong, tell us.
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