Berenice

Berenice is an ancient city of Egypt that is located in the Red Sea region. The founder of this city was Ptolemy II Philadelphos, who named the city after his mother, Berenice. She was the queen of Egypt and ancient Cyrene. Ptolemy's aim was to develop the city into a trade centre. The city served as an important port for many centuries, trading with countries like India, East Africa and Arabia.

While visiting the city of Berenice, tourists wont have to face any problem regarding their accommodation. There are a number of comfortable hotels and resorts in and around the city. Lahami Bay Resort is one of the luxurious resorts at Berenice.

Attractions at Berenice

Berenice is famous for the emerald mines of Wadi Sakait, Gebel Zubara and Mons Smaragdus. These mines were excavated and worked upon till 1370 by the Arabs. Mohammed Ali made an effort to reopen these mines during the 19th century, but was unsuccessful in his attempt.

The island of Topazos lies at a little distance from the coastal area. The yellow colored topaz or topazolite was abundant in this region. The island derived its name from this topazolite. Another gemstone named chrysolite, which is also a form of olivine, was found in this island.