• Pigeon keeper Omar Gamal, 28, releases his pigeons from a coop on a rooftop in Giza, Egypt. AFP
    Pigeon keeper Omar Gamal, 28, releases his pigeons from a coop on a rooftop in Giza, Egypt. AFP
  • An ancient tradition, the practice of domesticating pigeons transcends borders, with the sport of pigeon racing enjoyed all around the world. AFP
    An ancient tradition, the practice of domesticating pigeons transcends borders, with the sport of pigeon racing enjoyed all around the world. AFP
  • A racing pigeon can reach a speed of up to 100km per hour and cover a distance of 1,000km. AFP
    A racing pigeon can reach a speed of up to 100km per hour and cover a distance of 1,000km. AFP
  • Pigeon keepers spend hours training their birds every day. AFP
    Pigeon keepers spend hours training their birds every day. AFP
  • Flying high in the sky against the sun-soaked Pyramid of Khafre, pigeon racing is a wonder to behold. AFP
    Flying high in the sky against the sun-soaked Pyramid of Khafre, pigeon racing is a wonder to behold. AFP
  • It is believed to date back to the time of the pharaohs, when pigeons were engraved on temple walls. AFP
    It is believed to date back to the time of the pharaohs, when pigeons were engraved on temple walls. AFP
  • Pigeon keepers not only train birds to compete, but some also serve them as culinary treats, so it's essential they are well looked after. AFP
    Pigeon keepers not only train birds to compete, but some also serve them as culinary treats, so it's essential they are well looked after. AFP
  • Pigeon keeping is a full-time job, so a lot of time is spent ensuring the flock is fit and healthy. AFP
    Pigeon keeping is a full-time job, so a lot of time is spent ensuring the flock is fit and healthy. AFP
  • The race is on: racing pigeons take to the sky with the Pyramids of Giza in the distance. AFP
    The race is on: racing pigeons take to the sky with the Pyramids of Giza in the distance. AFP

Egypt

Egypt's pigeons among the pyramids - in pictures

The practice of domesticating pigeons is an ancient tradition handed down through generations of keepers

The National

March 11, 2021

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Egypt