Rhoda Island Nilometer

Located on the lower end of Rhoda Island, in Cairo, the Nilometer was used to measure the level of the river in times past. The structure consists of a measuring device, or a graduated column sitting below the Nile's level, reached by steps that curl around the chamber housing the column.

If the water dropped to a low level, Cairenes would expect drought and famine; if it rose too high they could predict flood and disasters. The Nilometer is no longer functional but worth a visit. Built in 861 AD by the Muslim Caliph Al-Mutawakkil, it is crowned by an interesting pointed dome that was reconstructed after being destroyed by French invaders. The building's interior is breathtaking.