Why was the Pharaohs Ihnton dead

 

## A Chronicle of Ink and Stone: Local Journalism in Luxor, Egypt

 

Luxor, a city steeped in ancient history and vibrant culture, has long held a unique position within the Egyptian media landscape. Beyond its world-renowned archaeological treasures, Luxor has fostered a rich history of local journalism, reflecting the city’s evolving identity and its relationship with the outside world. This chronicle explores the multifaceted evolution of Luxor’s media scene, from the "café press" of the 1950s to the digital age, highlighting the role of local publications in shaping community narratives, chronicling significant events, and connecting Luxor with the wider world.

## A Chronicle of Ink and Stone: Local Journalism in Luxor, Egypt

 

**The Dawn of Local Media: “Café Press” and Beyond**

 

The first stirrings of local journalism in Luxor emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily through informal publications known as “café press.”  These were small, two-page newspapers, often printed on cheap paper, and sold for a mere penny in local cafes. Their content was eclectic, ranging from local news and events to personal narratives, political commentary, and even advertisements. 

 

One prominent example is "Majallat al-Fara'in" (Journal of the Pharaohs), established in the early 1950s by Abdullah Khalil Hamis. This weekly publication, printed at the “Rameses” press, catered to a more intellectually inclined audience, focusing on literary, cultural, and educational topics.  It continued publication well into the 1970s, reflecting the enduring interest in intellectual pursuits in Luxor.

 

Beyond “café press,”  religious institutions and prominent families contributed to the burgeoning media scene. Churches and mosques produced their own publications, often disseminating religious messages and local community news.  The prominent Haggag family, known for their connection to the Abu al-Haggag mosque, produced pamphlets and booklets commemorating religious events and local figures, such as the 40th anniversary of the passing of prominent Wafd politician, Tawfiq Andraous.

 

**Luxor as a Media Hub: The International Lens**

 

Luxor’s unique status as an archaeological treasure and a growing tourist destination attracted the attention of international media.  Following the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in the 1920s, Luxor became a focal point for foreign journalists,  establishing the city as a significant media hub.

 

Notably, the prominent British newspaper “The Times” established a long-standing presence in Luxor with their correspondent, “al-‘Aboudi”, who covered local events and archaeological discoveries.  Foreign journalists played a pivotal role in disseminating news about Luxor to the world, shaping global perceptions of the city and its ancient wonders.

 

French archaeologist Henri Chevrier, known for his reports on the Antiquities Service, contributed to the documentation of Luxor’s urban transformation and development throughout the 1930s.  His publications chronicled the city’s growth, capturing the interplay between historical preservation and modern development.

 

**The Rise of National Media: “Al-Ahram” and the Local Voice**

 

Egypt's leading newspaper, “Al-Ahram”,  played a significant role in establishing a national perspective on local news.  From its inception, “Al-Ahram” maintained a dedicated correspondent in Luxor, ensuring that local events, including major archaeological discoveries, were reported to a wider audience.

 

This commitment to local coverage was evident during the 1882 discovery of the Deir el-Bahari cache, where “Al-Ahram’s” correspondent played a key role in reporting on the findings.  The newspaper also led a protest against the exclusion of Egyptian journalists from covering the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, emphasizing the growing desire for greater local involvement in reporting on significant events.

 

**A New Era of Local Media: “Sawt al-Aqsar” and Beyond**

 

The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed a resurgence of local newspapers in Luxor, reflecting a growing demand for local news and a desire to strengthen community engagement.

 

In 2003, the Supreme Council of Luxor launched "Sawt al-Aqsar" (The Voice of Luxor) as the official newspaper of the city. Under the editorship of Ibrahim Hafni, the newspaper covered a wide range of topics, including local development projects, community service issues, and proceedings of the local council. Notably, one section was dedicated to English-language content, aiming to engage foreign residents and tourists.

 

Prior to "Sawt al-Aqsar,"  the local council had established "al-Aqsar" (Luxor), edited by Fayez Biqtar, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to promoting local journalism.

 

**The Spectrum of Local Publications**

 

Beyond “Sawt al-Aqsar,” a number of other local publications emerged in the 2000s, reflecting the diverse interests and concerns of the Luxor community.

 

"Shams al-Aqsar" (The Sun of Luxor), "al-Aqsar al-Yawm" (Luxor Today), "Wafd al-Aqsar" (The Wafd of Luxor), "Tiba,” "Nimaa al-Aqsar" (The Growth of Luxor), and "Nefertari,” a women’s magazine, all contributed to the expanding media landscape.

 

"Tut," a children’s magazine, aimed to engage younger audiences, highlighting the importance of fostering literacy and cultural awareness from a young age. While most of these publications struggled to maintain long-term sustainability, they collectively showcased the dynamism and diversity of local journalism in Luxor.

 

**The Impact of Tourism and Digital Transformation**

 

The surge in tourism in the 2000s significantly influenced the growth of local media.  The arrival of international visitors created a demand for information and services catering to a diverse audience. This led to the establishment of publications like "al-Aqsar Times,"  a fully English-language newspaper specifically targeting foreign residents and tourists.

 

The digital revolution has profoundly impacted the media landscape in Luxor. While print publications continue to hold a place in the community, online platforms and social media have emerged as powerful channels for news dissemination, community engagement, and fostering dialogue. 

 

Local news websites, blogs, and social media groups have proliferated, providing instant updates, interactive forums for discussion, and platforms for citizen journalism.  The digital age has democratized media access, empowering individuals to share their perspectives and contribute to the ongoing narrative of Luxor.

 

**Conclusion: A Legacy of Local Voices**

 

From the humble beginnings of “café press” to the multifaceted digital landscape of today, local journalism in Luxor has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s identity and fostering a sense of community.  Luxor’s media scene reflects the dynamism of its history, culture, and its evolving relationship with the outside world.

 

The enduring legacy of Luxor’s local media lies in its ability to chronicle significant events, amplify local voices, and connect the city’s rich past with its vibrant present.  As the city continues to evolve, local journalism will remain an important platform for capturing the essence of Luxor, its unique challenges, and its aspirations for the future.