English
Al Tahrir Square, known as Liberation Square, is more than just a public town square in downtown Cairo; it’s a symbol of Egyptian resilience and the heart of political activism in the country. The square’s history is deeply intertwined with Egypt’s modern history.
Early History: Originally named Ismailia Square, it was designed during the reign of Khedive Ismail in the 19th century, who envisioned Cairo as a ‘Paris on the Nile’.
Political Significance: After the Egyptian Revolution of 1919, the square was renamed to Tahrir Square to commemorate the country’s struggle for independence
2011 Egyptian Revolution: The square gained international recognition during the 2011 revolution, where hundreds of thousands of protesters gathered, demanding an end to President Hosni Mubarak’s 30-year rule.
Post-Revolution: Following the revolution, Tahrir Square continued to be a site for political expression and demonstrations.
Cultural and Urban Landscape: The square is surrounded by significant buildings, including the Egyptian Museum, the Mogamma government building, and the American University in Cairo.
Monuments and Memorials: In November 2013, a memorial was erected to honor activists and protesters killed during the 2011 and 2013 protests.
Al Tahrir Square remains a potent symbol of the Egyptian people’s aspirations for democracy and freedom, and its history continues to evolve with each political and social movement that takes place within its bounds.
