Egypt has been home to a Armenian community since the days of the Fatimid era, boasting a rich history of contributions to the country. Among the notable individuals from this community is Armen Mazloumian, a medical doctor who was born in Egypt after his grandparents migrated there. The Mazloumian family, along with thousands of others, became part of an established Armenian community that thrived over the centuries, engaging in various trades such as skilled craftsmanship, trading, and cultivation of crops like tobacco and oranges.
Reflecting on their experience, Mazloumian emphasizes that living in Egypt provided Armenians with the freedom to preserve their language and establish churches and social clubs. Mazloumian expresses gratitude towards Egypt for embracing Armenians, and highlights the importance of preserving their unique identity and cherished traditions for future generations.
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A Long history
Armenians have established a long-standing presence in Egypt, tracing back to the era of the Fatimid dynasty in the 11th century. Throughout history, the Armenian community has played a significant role in shaping Egyptian society across various domains, including crafts, cuisine, and various industries.
The influence of the Armenian community can be observed throughout Egypt, particularly since the time of the Fatimid Caliphate when Armenians were welcomed and rose to positions of high political office. Notably, during the 11th century, around 30,000 Armenians resided in Egypt, with six of them holding esteemed positions as viziers and provincial governors.
One prominent figure, Badr al-Jamali, an Armenian vizier, played a significant role in fortifying Cairo by replacing old brick walls with enduring stone walls that can still be admired today. The remaining gates in the city wall of old Cairo, namely Bab al-Fatuh, Bab al-Nasr, and Bab Zuweila, showcase exquisite stonework and engravings.
Armenian communities flourishing in Egypt continued during the reign of Mohamed Ali Pasha. He served as the Ottoman governor of Egypt and de facto ruler in the years of 1805 to 1848. This period, known as a golden age for Armenians, witnessed their remarkable contributions to building modern Egypt in economic, social, political, and administrative spheres. Although their population in Egypt did not exceed 2,000 individuals, their impact was significant and enduring.
Their Influence and Contributions
Armenians played a pivotal role in establishing trade connections with Indian, Ottoman, and European markets, fostering the growth of various industries in Egypt. Notably, they made significant contributions to the cultivation and export of indigo, a colored dye, to Europe.
Additionally, they facilitated the export of opium, which Egypt supplied to pharmaceutical factories in Europe. Armenians also introduced mandarin orange cultivation to Egypt, with Yusuf Effendi al-Armani, an Armenian merchant, bringing mandarin bushes from Malta and planting them in Mohamed Ali Pasha’s orchard. To this day, Egyptians honor the merchant by referring to mandarin oranges as ‘Yousfi’ or ‘Yusuf effendi.’
The Armenian-Egyptian photographer Van Leo, born in 1921, gained fame for his mastery of light and shadows. Throughout his illustrious 50-year career, he captured images of numerous film stars and other renowned figures.
Before the outbreak of World War I, Armenians played a significant role in Egypt’s tobacco industry. Brands like Coutarelli and Sarkissian employed thousands of workers, and their cigarettes and tobacco products were widely sold at affordable prices throughout Egypt and even in Sudan.
How They Preserve Themselves?
Presently, the Armenian community in Egypt is dedicated to safeguarding the rich legacy left by their ancestors. With approximately 8,000 Armenians residing in Egypt today, they are actively preserving their heritage through three main avenues: schools, clubs, and the church. Mazloumian highlights the importance of these institutions in maintaining Armenian culture.
The Armenian clubs organize a wide range of activities for young Armenians, including sports like football and basketball, as well as scout programs. They also offer sessions on Armenian folklore and workshops where participants can learn the art of Armenian embroidery.
In Cairo, the Kalousdian-Nubarian Armenian School, established in 1854, provides students with the opportunity to learn the Armenian language, religion, and history alongside the traditional Egyptian school curriculum. Additionally, the community holds events to introduce Armenian culture to the public, although they may not occur frequently.
Preserving the Armenian language, family customs, and rituals plays a significant role in helping Armenians worldwide maintain a strong sense of identity and heritage, as emphasized by Mazloumian.
Migrations From Egypt
In the 1940s, there was a significant increase in migrations to Egypt, with the Armenian population reaching nearly 40,000. However, after the 1952 revolution and the implementation of new economic and political policies by President Gamal Abdel Nasser, a large number of Armenian Egyptians decided to emigrate to Europe, Australia, and the United States. As a result, the majority of Armenian Egyptians living today were born in Egypt and now primarily reside in Cairo or Alexandria.
To maintain their cultural heritage and foster community connections, Armenian Egyptians have established various facilities such as social clubs, schools, and sports clubs. These institutions play a vital role in promoting communication among Armenian Egyptians and reviving the rich heritage passed down by their forefathers.
Armenians have a long-standing presence in Egypt, with their influence extending to various aspects of Egyptian society. Situated between Europe and the Middle East, Armenia has a rich history as one of the oldest Christian communities, dating back to 301 A.D.
The Armenian population in Egypt grew significantly during the early 20th century, becoming one of the largest communities of the Armenian Diaspora. However, following the 1952 revolution and changes in Egypt’s economic and political landscape, a significant number of Armenian Egyptians emigrated to Europe, Australia, and the United States. Today, most Armenian Egyptians were born in Egypt and primarily reside in Cairo or Alexandria.
To preserve their heritage and foster a sense of community, Armenian Egyptians have established social clubs, schools, and sports clubs. These institutions play a crucial role in facilitating communication among Armenian Egyptians and reviving the cultural heritage passed down by their ancestors.
In Cairo, the Armenian community was once concentrated in the Haret Kenisset el-Arman in the Moski neighborhood and downtown.