The Waterwheels of Fayoum, located in the Fayoum Oasis southwest of Cairo, are one of the most iconic and historic symbols of the region. These ancient waterwheels, locally known as “Norias,” were introduced during the Ptolemaic period and have been used for centuries to irrigate the fertile lands of Fayoum by lifting water from nearby canals and the Nile River.

The waterwheels are made from wood and have large circular structures, designed to rotate with the flow of water, elevating it to higher ground to irrigate surrounding agricultural fields. The wheels function using a simple yet effective mechanism, with a series of buckets attached to the wheel that scoop up water as it turns, then pour it into channels leading to the crops.

Fayoum’s waterwheels represent both the ingenuity and the deep agricultural history of the region. They were vital in transforming Fayoum into a productive agricultural center, famous for growing crops such as wheat, dates, grapes, and figs.

While many of the ancient waterwheels remain in operation today, serving as both an irrigation tool and a cultural heritage site, they are also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can witness these impressive machines in action and explore the surrounding oasis, which provides a glimpse into the traditional life and landscape of rural Egypt.

The Waterwheels of Fayoum are not only a testament to ancient engineering but also a symbol of the region’s longstanding relationship with the Nile and its ability to harness the power of water for sustainable agriculture.