The Cairo Marriott Hotel, one of the largest hotels in the Middle East and Europe, offers a glimpse into Egyptian history.

Located on a lush, beautifully landscaped island on the Nile, the hotel incorporates the historic Al Gezirah Palace which was built in 1869 by Khedive Ismail as a guest palace to the Suez Canal inauguration celebrations.

The palace which played host to European monarchs including Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, was part of an estate on the island, which included the magnificent residence of the Khedive, landscaped gardens and a zoo.

Today the Palace is all that remains of the estate and many of its rooms and furnishings have been restored to their original splendor, creating hotel reception rooms, restaurants and lounges.

A few minutes away from the Bazar and the museum and a short drive from the Pyramids, the palace today offers a blend of traditional elegance and contemporary facilities.

"The hotel's 1,250 luxury rooms and suites bring a whole new dimension to the art of good living," says a hotel spokesman.