Sudan

Famous country

Reviews

Sudan is a country in northeastern Africa with a complex and challenging history. It is the third-largest country on the continent and is known for its diverse geography, significant historical sites, and a society shaped by a long history of conflict and political instability.

Area and Geography:
Sudan covers an area of approximately 1,886,068 square kilometers (728,215 square miles). It is generally a flat, featureless plain, with mountains in the far south, northeast, and west. The north is dominated by desert, including the Libyan and Nubian Deserts. The country is traversed by the Nile River, formed by the confluence of the White Nile and Blue Nile in Khartoum. The Red Sea coastline stretches for 853 km (530 miles).

Population:
As of 2023, the population of Sudan is estimated to be around 50 million.

Language:
The official languages of Sudan are Literary Arabic (Modern Standard Arabic) and English, according to the 2005 constitution. Sudanese Arabic is widely spoken. Other minority languages include Beja, Nubian, Fur, Masalit, and Zaghawa.

Currency:
The currency of Sudan is the Sudanese Pound (SDG).

Religion:
The majority of the population (around 91%) is Muslim, primarily Sunni. There are also significant Christian communities (around 5.4%), as well as followers of Indigenous religions and other faiths.

Capital:
The capital city of Sudan is Khartoum.

Major Cities:
Besides Khartoum, other major cities include:

  • Omdurman: Directly across from Khartoum, known for its historical significance and cultural wealth.
  • Bahri (North Khartoum): Another city forming the “Tri-city” area with Khartoum and Omdurman.
  • Nyala: Located in Southern Darfur.
  • Port Sudan: A major port city on the Red Sea.
  • Kassala: Located in eastern Sudan.
  • Al-Ubayyid (El Obeid): Capital of North Kordofan, known for its agricultural richness.
  • Meroë: An ancient city famous for its pyramids.

Attractions and Wonders:
Sudan boasts numerous historical and natural attractions:

  • Meroë Pyramids: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 200 pyramids from the ancient Kushitic Kingdom.
  • Suakin: A historic port city on the Red Sea coast with well-preserved coral-stone structures.
  • Jebel Barkal: Another UNESCO site, a sacred mountain with ancient temples and pyramids.
  • Kerma: An ancient city with impressive mud-brick temples, including the Western Deffufa.
  • Old Dongola: An archaeological site with ruins of churches and royal palaces.
  • Dinder National Park: Known for its wildlife.
  • Sanganeb Marine National Park: A marine park in the Red Sea.
  • National Museum of Sudan (Khartoum): Houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts.
  • Khalifa House Museum (Omdurman): Showcases the history of the Mahdist state.
  • Omdurman Camel Market: One of the largest markets in Africa.

Architecture:
Sudanese architecture showcases a blend of ancient, Islamic, and colonial influences. The Meroë pyramids are a prime example of ancient Kushitic architecture. Islamic architecture is evident in mosques and traditional houses, while some buildings in Khartoum reflect colonial styles.

Roads:
Road conditions in Sudan can be challenging. Only major highways and some city streets are paved, with many roads being narrow, rutted, and poorly maintained. Driver behavior, pedestrians, and animals in the roadways contribute to hazardous conditions.

Hotels:
Khartoum offers a range of hotels, including international chains like Corinthia Hotel Khartoum, Al Salam Hotel, and Ewa Khartoum Hotel & Apartments, as well as various local establishments. Options range from moderate deluxe to first-class.

Restaurants and Cuisine:
Sudanese cuisine is a delicious blend of Arab, Nubian, Egyptian, Turkish, and Levantine influences. Meals are often shared, emphasizing hospitality. Common meats include lamb and chicken, prepared according to halal laws.

  • Popular dishes include:
    • Kisra: A type of Sudanese bread.
    • Taglia: Spiced meat stew.
    • Ful Medames: A national dish, often made with fava beans.
    • Molokhia: A thick soup made from boiled leaves.
    • Tamiya (Falafel): Made with chickpeas in Sudan.
    • Kebabs, Kofta, Shawarma: Influenced by Turkish cuisine.
    • Umm Ali and Basbousa: Popular desserts.
    • Jibna Bayda: A soft white cheese.
  • Restaurants in Khartoum include:
    • Al-Housh Restaurant: Known for authentic Sudanese cuisine.
    • Solitaire Restaurant: Offers exquisite international dishes.
    • Afrah Al-Khartoum: Popular for Middle Eastern (Levantine) dishes.
    • Tuti Island Restaurant: Overlooks the Nile, offering fresh fish and international favorites.
    • The Mogran Family Restaurant: Family-oriented with a diverse menu.
    • Ozone Café and Papaya Restaurant and Café: Modern and relaxed dining experiences.