The name of Fayoum originates from the hieroglyphic word Fayoum , which meant “ the sea “ , a reference to the large inland Lake Qroun. Only two hours from Cairo by road , fayoum is renowned for its year-round warm climate , numerous Water Wheels (introduced by the Ptolemies in the 3rd century BC )  and lush agricultural land . Opposite the local marketplace in Fayoum city is the hanging mosque built above 5 arches , and near by is the 15th century Mosque of Khund Asla –Bey built by Sultan Qaitbey. Fayoum has a traditional hunting ground since Pharoanic times when Crocodipolice n, center of the cult of Sobek  , was the capital of the region. There are many Pharoanic sites in the area.

• Fayoum’s Monuments

- Kom Oshim Museum

The museum houses artifacts found throughout the Pharaonic , Greco-Roman and early Coptic periods

- Karanis

Ruins of an ancient Ptolemaic town , founded by the Greek settlers in the 3rd century

- The seven water – Wheels

Within the towns premises , are the huge , shiny and black wheels. They moan and groan as the water splashes onto the large paddles.

- Pyramid of Maydoum

At 40 kms from Lake Qaroon , is the 12th dynasty pyramid constructed from mud brick