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Heritage & monuments

El Mataria

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El Mataria

El Mataria

Located east of Cairo, El Mataria contains the ruins of Heliopolis, an ancient Egyptian city. Visitors go here to see the archaeological remains of one of the oldest religious and astronomical centers in Egypt, where they can walk among the traces of an ancient civilization.

Getting There

The site is accessible from Cairo city centre via taxi or ride-sharing apps. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Duration of Visit

Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore the ruins and the surrounding district.

When to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. The cooler winter months are the most suitable season for outdoor exploration. The area can become crowded during local peak hours and weekends.

Nearby Attractions

This site can be combined with other landmarks in the eastern part of the city. Nearby points of interest include:

  • Baron Empain Palace (6.2km)
  • Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral (6.5km)
  • Al-Hakim Mosque (8.7km)
  • Imbaba (9.1km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near El Mataria

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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El Mataria Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Baron Empain Palace

Castles & palaces

Baron Empain Palace

Built in the early 1900s for Belgian businessman Baron Empain, this mansion features a striking facade inspired by Hindu temples. It's located in Heliopolis, near Cairo, making it a great spot to admire exotic architecture.

6.2 km away
Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral

Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral is Egypt's foremost Coptic Orthodox cathedral and has long served as the center of Coptic Christian faith. It's a great place to take in both the church architecture and religious culture.

6.5 km away
Al-Hakim Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Al-Hakim Mosque

A historic mosque in Cairo; construction began in the late 10th century under the Fatimid dynasty and was completed in the early 11th century. It takes its name from Caliph al-Hakim, who completed the building.

8.7 km away
Imbaba

Shopping & districts

Imbaba

A working-class neighborhood in northern Giza on the west bank of the Nile, close to downtown Cairo. With one of the highest population densities in the world, it offers an up-close look at everyday local life.

9.1 km away
Al-Hussein Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Al-Hussein Mosque

A mosque near the Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo, Egypt, it houses the mausoleum of Hussein ibn Ali and is regarded as one of Egypt's foremost Islamic holy sites. It sits next to Al-Azhar Mosque, making the two easy to visit together.

9.4 km away
Khan el-Khalili

Shopping & districts

Khan el-Khalili

This historic bazaar dates back to the Mamluk era and is dotted with workshops where artisans craft traditional goods and souvenirs. Between the lively haggling and browsing, time flies by.

9.5 km away