Heliopolis Obelisk (Al-Masalla) Cairo
A solitary granite monolith, the Heliopolis Obelisk is a rare surviving remnant of ancient Heliopolis, offering a profound connection to Egypt's rich ...

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Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Heliopolis Obelisk (Al-Masalla) Cairo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solitary granite monolith, the Heliopolis Obelisk is a rare surviving remnant of ancient Heliopolis, offering a profound connection to Egypt's rich past.
"Majestic obelisk from the ancient city of Heliopolis whose most remnants still lie underneath the buildings of the surrounding neighborhoods."
Visit with a Group
The neighborhood can feel unsafe for solo walks; consider visiting with others or using Uber.
Look for Details
Zoom in to appreciate the intricate carvings and potential orbs captured by visitors.
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The Heliopolis Obelisk
Al-Matarriyah district, Cairo
A towering granite monolith, this obelisk is a rare surviving remnant of the ancient sun temple of Ra-Atum, erected by Senusret I.

Ancient Sun Temple Site
Surrounding the Obelisk
Explore the grounds where a significant sun temple once stood, expanded from the 4th dynasty through the Roman period.

Ramses II Statue Fragment
Near the Obelisk
See a fragment of a giant statue of Ramses II, offering a tangible connection to another powerful pharaoh.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ancient History Amidst Modern Cairo
Uncovering Ancient Secrets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit with a Group
The neighborhood can feel unsafe for solo walks; consider visiting with others or using Uber.
Look for Details
Zoom in to appreciate the intricate carvings and potential orbs captured by visitors.
Historical Context is Key
Research the site's significance as part of ancient Heliopolis and a sun temple.
Photography Opportunities
Capture the grandeur of the obelisk, especially during softer light conditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit with a Group
The neighborhood can feel unsafe for solo walks; consider visiting with others or using Uber.
Look for Details
Zoom in to appreciate the intricate carvings and potential orbs captured by visitors.
Historical Context is Key
Research the site's significance as part of ancient Heliopolis and a sun temple.
Photography Opportunities
Capture the grandeur of the obelisk, especially during softer light conditions.
Combine with Local Eats
Explore nearby Heliopolis for dining options, though some reviews suggest it can be overpriced.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Heliopolis Obelisk to be a simple yet profound historical site, offering a glimpse into ancient Heliopolis. While the obelisk itself is majestic and worth the effort for history enthusiasts, the surrounding neighborhood is noted as not being very tourist-friendly or safe for solo exploration, with some finding local dining options overpriced.
"It's so simple and so deep place🙏🏻😊"
Natalee
"Majestic obelisk from the ancient city of Heliopolis whose most remnants still lie underneath the buildings of the surrounding neighborhoods ... The renovated area is nice and not crowded, but the neighborhood doesn't seem very safe for lonely walking travelers, it will be better to come in groups or use Uber."
Bishoy Samir
"Totally worth the effort. This is the origin place of the Egyptian mythology.now a open air museum."
Maxwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Heliopolis Obelisk (Al-Masalla) is located in the Al-Matarriyah district. The most convenient way to reach it is by using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Careem, as the surrounding neighborhood is not heavily touristed and may feel less safe for solo exploration.
Public transport options exist but can be more complex for tourists. Taxis are also available, but ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand.While the obelisk itself is a historical site, reviews suggest the surrounding neighborhood might not feel very safe for solo travelers. It's recommended to visit in groups or use ride-sharing services for a more secure experience.
For exploring Heliopolis and reaching the obelisk, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are highly recommended for their convenience and relative safety. Taxis are also an option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Heliopolis Obelisk is generally accessible as an open-air monument. While there isn't typically a formal ticket booth for the obelisk itself, the surrounding area is being renovated and may have some access points. It's best to check for any local advisories upon arrival.
As an outdoor monument, the Heliopolis Obelisk is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the surrounding area's accessibility might vary. It's advisable to visit during the day when the area is more active and safer.
There is typically no specific entrance fee for viewing the Heliopolis Obelisk itself, as it's an outdoor historical monument. However, any renovated areas or adjacent facilities might have associated costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the day when there's ample natural light. Late afternoon offers softer light, which can be ideal for capturing the obelisk's details and texture. Some visitors have reported capturing interesting orbs around the monument.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed at outdoor historical sites like the Heliopolis Obelisk. However, it's always wise to be respectful of the site and any local regulations that may be in place.
Finding high-resolution photos of the stonework can be challenging. While some images exist on social media and travel blogs, detailed shots might be scarce.
Searching specific hashtags on Instagram or TikTok might yield more results.🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
The Heliopolis Obelisk (Al-Masalla) is a significant remnant of the ancient city of Heliopolis, once a major religious center. Erected by Pharaoh Senusret I of the 12th Dynasty, it was part of the Temple of Ra-Atum and is one of the few surviving Pharaonic structures from the area.
The obelisk was originally part of the Temple of Ra-Atum in ancient Heliopolis, serving a religious and symbolic purpose related to the sun god. It's believed to have been a monumental marker and possibly a conduit for solar energy.
Yes, the area of ancient Heliopolis is considered one of the spots where the Holy Family may have visited during their journey in Egypt approximately 2,000 years ago.
Besides the obelisk, fragments of a giant statue of Ramses II have been found in the vicinity, offering further glimpses into the grandeur of ancient Heliopolis.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Heliopolis is known for its dining scene. While some visitors find local spots to be 'ordinary and overpriced,' others highlight the pleasant ambiance.
You can find various restaurants, including Mexican cuisine, in the broader Heliopolis area.Heliopolis offers a diverse range of culinary options. You can find everything from traditional Egyptian fare to international cuisines like Mexican food, as seen in some TikTok reviews.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of Ancient Heliopolis
Exploring the site offers a tangible connection to Egypt's rich past. While the obelisk is the main surviving remnant, the area was once a sprawling complex that saw expansions and modifications from the 4th Dynasty all the way through the Roman period. Visitors can imagine the scale of the original temple and its importance in ancient Egyptian society. The presence of fragments from statues of pharaohs like Ramses II further underscores the site's historical depth.
Despite its historical significance, the obelisk is situated in a less tourist-centric part of Cairo. This means that while it might not be as crowded as other major Egyptian landmarks, the surrounding neighborhood requires a degree of caution. Travelers are advised to be aware of their surroundings and consider visiting in groups or utilizing ride-sharing services for a more comfortable and secure experience.
Navigating Heliopolis: Beyond the Obelisk
When visiting the obelisk, consider extending your exploration to other parts of Heliopolis. The district boasts various restaurants, cafes, and shops. Some TikTok creators have highlighted new dining spots, including Mexican restaurants, and even luxury car showrooms, showcasing the diverse offerings of the area. While some reviews mention that dining can be a bit pricey, the overall ambiance of Heliopolis is often praised.
For those interested in the spiritual history of Egypt, it's worth noting that the area of ancient Heliopolis is also believed to be a site visited by the Holy Family during their journey in Egypt. This adds another layer of significance to the district, making it a place of interest for various historical and religious perspectives.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit