Egypt PM Inspects Royal Palace Restoration, Rashid Corniche Development

Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly visited the restoration project of the Royal Palace in the village of Idvina, near Rashid. He received a briefing on the renovation efforts, praising the historical edifice for its unique architectural style and emphasizing the need to maximize its tourism potential.

Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that the palace is registered as an Islamic and Coptic monument. Located on the west bank of the Nile, north-east of Idvina village in Beheira Governorate, its architecture blends elements from various historical periods. Construction began under Khedive Abbas Helmy II, with subsequent phases completed under King Ahmed Fouad I and King Farouk.

El-Leithy detailed the palace's L-shaped, three-wing structure surrounded by rare trees and gardens. Each wing has three floors. The basement housed kitchens and storage, the first floor, known as the 'Salamlek,' was for receptions and royal offices, and the second floor, the 'Haramlek,' was for the king and his family's accommodation. The palace features a main entrance on the west, overlooking the Rashid-Damanhour road, leading to a central corridor. A river dock, built during Khedive Abbas Helmy II's era, faces the Rashid branch of the Nile along the eastern facade of the Abbas Helmy II wing.

During his tour, the Prime Minister also reviewed the development work on the Rashid Corniche. Madbouly stressed the state's commitment to developing Nile fronts and historically significant areas to improve citizens' quality of life and boost tourism. The corniche project aims to provide a recreational space for residents and visitors while preserving Rashid's architectural and heritage identity.

Beheira Governor Dr. Jaqueline Azar highlighted the Rashid Corniche as a key urban development project, serving as Rashid's main Nile facade and gateway to its historical sites. The development spans approximately 6 kilometers, from the international coastal road to the fishing port, creating a vital link within the city.