Babylon of Egypt A Study in the History of Old Cairo

Originally published in 1914, Babylon of Egypt: A Study in the History of Old Cairo provides readers a remarkable example of how ancient cities with the same name can result in historical misapplications and misunderstandings. We learn from the work of A. J. (Arthur John) Butler, the late English scholar, professor, and editor, that this has occurred in the usage of the name Babylon. To many, Babylon is only associated with the most famous city of Ancient Mesopotamia, the ruins of which lie in modern-day Iraq -- less than 60 miles southwest of Baghdad. As we learn from this important historical text, another town or city known as Babylon existed in Ancient Egypt, in the region of Ancient Miṣr, now called Old Cairo. While reference to this early Babylon in Africa was at some point lost among the historical writers, its reference can be found in the writings of Diodorus Siculus, around 50 B.C. Ptolemy referenced this fortress town in Ancient Egypt in his description of a canal upon the Nile flowing through a city known as Babylon. It is with great delight that we republish this comprehensive study for scholars and students of the history of Nile Valley Civilization in Africa.