Matrouh Governorate

Lore & Background

The interior of Matrouh Governorate is part of Egypt's Western Desert, including the Siwa Oasis, known in antiquity for its shrine to Amun. In the center lies the Qattara Depression, descending to 133 meters below sea level. Marsa Matrouh, the capital, was the ancient Greek city of Paraitonion, the westernmost city of the Ptolemaic Kingdom during the Hellenistic period. The city of Apis, 18 km west of Paraetonium, marked the boundary to Libycus nome, and the Halfaya Pass at Sallum marked the boundary to Marmarica proper.

The governorate contains many historical sites related to World War II, including el Alamein, which comprises cemeteries for fallen soldiers from both Axis and Allied forces. An estimated 16 million mines, planted by Europeans during the world wars and called 'devil's gardens,' still hinder development across most of the governorate and are constantly being removed.

Reader's Guide

Matrouh Governorate holds significance as a region bridging Egypt's Mediterranean coast and its Western Desert, with historical layers from the Hellenistic period through World War II. Its capital, Marsa Matrouh, was a key Ptolemaic city, while the Siwa Oasis preserves ancient religious importance. The governorate's World War II sites, particularly el Alamein, serve as memorials to the conflict's North African campaign. However, the legacy of war also includes the persistent danger of millions of landmines, which continue to impede development and require ongoing clearance efforts. The governorate's population is predominantly urban, with a 2015 urbanization rate of 70.6%. Its industrial zones, as listed by the Governing Authority for Investment and Free Zones, indicate ongoing economic activity despite the challenges posed by unexploded ordnance.

Did You Know?

• The Qattara Depression in Matrouh Governorate descends to 133 meters below sea level.
• Marsa Matrouh was the westernmost city of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in the Hellenistic period.
• An estimated 16 million mines, called 'devil's gardens,' remain in the governorate from the world wars.
• The governorate contains el Alamein, which has cemeteries for both Axis and Allied soldiers.