Egypt is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east, which provides it with a significant coastline and numerous beaches. The country is known for its rich history and is often synonymous with ancient civilization landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the ruins of Memphis, Thebes, and Karnak. The Nile River, the longest river in the world, flows through Egypt from south to north and is the lifeline of the country, providing fertile land in an otherwise desert landscape. The majority of Egypt's population lives along the banks of the Nile River, in cities including Cairo, the capital, Alexandria, and Luxor. Egypt's climate is predominantly desert with hot, sunny days and cool nights. The country has a diverse economy with sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services, with tourism being a significant part of it. Egypt's culture is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, with Arabic being the official language. The country has a rich artistic heritage, with contributions to literature, music, dance, and cinema. Egyptian cuisine is characterized by flavorful dishes such as ful medames, koshari, and molokhia, often accompanied by flatbread. Despite the political unrest in the early 21st century, Egypt remains a pivotal country in Middle Eastern politics and a key ally for many Western countries. Its strategic location, as well as the Suez Canal, a vital waterway for international trade, adds to its geopolitical importance.