Bilbays is a city located in the Sharqia Governorate in Egypt. The city has a rich history, dating back to ancient times, and has been home to various civilizations and cultures throughout the centuries. Bilbays is situated on the eastern bank of the Nile River, which has played a significant role in shaping the city's history and development.
The population of Bilbays is approximately 200,000 people, making it one of the larger cities in the Sharqia Governorate. The majority of the population is Muslim, although there is also a sizable Christian minority in the city.
The history of Bilbays dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements in the area dating back to the Pre-Dynastic Period of ancient Egypt (c. 6000-3150 BCE). The city was also known as "Bubastis" during the Pharaonic era, and was a center of worship for the goddess Bastet. The ruins of the ancient city can still be seen in modern-day Bilbays, including the temple of Bastet and the remains of the city walls.
During the Islamic era, Bilbays became an important center of learning and culture. The city was home to numerous scholars and thinkers, and played a significant role in the development of Islamic philosophy and literature. In the 14th century, Bilbays was also the site of a major battle between the armies of the Mamluk Sultanate and the Mongol Empire, which resulted in a decisive victory for the Mamluks.
In more recent times, Bilbays has been affected by the political and social changes that have swept across Egypt. The city was a center of opposition to the British colonial rule in the early 20th century, and was a key site of anti-colonial resistance. In the 1950s and 1960s, Bilbays played a significant role in the national struggle for independence and was a hub of political activity.
Today, Bilbays is a bustling city with a vibrant economy and a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to numerous historical sites, including the remains of the ancient city of Bubastis, as well as modern-day mosques, churches, and other religious institutions. The city's location on the Nile River has made it an important center of commerce and trade, and it continues to be a hub of activity in the Sharqia Governorate.
Bilbays is a city with a rich and varied history, spanning thousands of years. From its ancient roots as a center of worship for the goddess Bastet, to its role as a hub of Islamic scholarship and resistance to colonialism, the city has played an important role in shaping the cultural and political landscape of Egypt. Today, Bilbays continues to thrive as a center of commerce, culture, and innovation, and remains an important symbol of the country's rich and complex heritage.