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Babylon Fortress, an Ancient Roman stronghold, stands as a significant historical site located on the eastern bank of the Nile in what is now known as Old Cairo or Coptic Cairo. Constructed around 300 AD under Emperor Diocletian, the fortress served as a protective barrier for the entrance to an ancient canal that linked the Nile with the Red Sea. This canal, initially reconstructed by Emperor Trajan, was vital for trade, and Babylon became a toll point for river craft navigating between Lower and Middle Egypt.
Today, visitors can see the impressive ruins of Babylon Fortress while exploring the nearby Coptic Museum, convents, and remarkable churches, including the well-known Church of St. George and the Hanging Church. This region is rich in religious heritage, reflecting the long-standing Christian presence in Egypt, particularly since the town was once the center of a Christian bishopric.
Historical records, such as those by the 7th-century writer John of Nikiu, attribute the naming of Babylon to Nebuchadnezzar II, who had campaigns in the area around 568 BC. While the ancient name of the location was Kheriaha, the name "Babylon" has persisted and is widely recognized today. The fortress itself has evolved over centuries, with its origins tracing back to earlier structures associated with canal trade and military defense.
The architectural design of the fortress includes massive round towers and robust walls, representative of the strategic importance of Babylon. It became a resilient stronghold during various reigns, serving as a crucial military site during the Eastern Roman Empire and later encountering conflicts during the Arab conquest of Egypt. The fortress's enduring legacy remains visible as a pivotal landmark in Coptic Cairo, symbolizing the blend of culture, history, and faith in this vibrant region of Egypt.
