Aswan, << AS wahn or ahs WAHN >> (pop. 1,482, 981), is an important commercial, mining, and resort city in southeastern Egypt. It lies on the east bank of the Nile River, about 430 miles (692 kilometers) south of Cairo.
Aswan serves as a major market center for farmers of the Nile Valley traders from Sudan, and Arab nomads called Bedouins. The city also ranks as a leading transportation center. A principal line of Egypt’s chief railroad extends from Aswan to Cairo. The Aswan High Dam, which has revolutionized the Egyptian economy, stands about 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Aswan (see Aswan High Dam). Red granite mined near Aswan has been used to build many of Egypt’s most famous monuments since ancient times. Aswan’s hot, dry climate makes the city a popular health resort. For the monthly weather in Aswan, see Egypt (Climate).
