City of the dead or Qaraf in Egypt is a nomenclature which brings to mind a sense of foreboding because of its association with the dead in ancient times.  In ancient time necropolis or the city of the dead which was actually a burial ground existed in many lands.  In Egypt it was parallel to the cities beyond the Nile River on the western Thebes.The media and historian brought to the forefront the importance of this place located on the east end of Cairo. Many tourists wish to visit this place of funeral, which is very different from the western or Asian culture. However, it is not an official tourist spot and tourist buses do not ply on this route. It is now the illegal abode and business premises of the urban poor and many Cairenes totally to about five million.

At present, it is a living cemetery. The burial ornate tombs are the living places of the local people. A special arrangement with a knowledgeable escort is appropriate and is recommended by the locals. The narrow lanes and bi-lanes are best transverse on foot along with the local authentic guide. The region is full of possible hazards by the locals.

In all, there are five necropolises within the City of the Dead. These are called the Northern Cemetery it is here most tourist visit under the supervision of the guide; it has tombs scattered all over the area, but no vehicle can be seen. Mosque of Qaitbey of 1474 and Complex of Sultan Ashraf Barsbey as well as mausoleum of Ibn barquq are an example of style, scale, and size. In spite of  low maintainers, they are fascinating.  Next is the Southern Cemetery, Bab-el-Nasr cemetery, the Cemetery of the Great, and lastly the Bab-el-wazir Cemetery. One can take the route from citadel towards Botanic Gardens then to Salem highway.

On the route, the mausoleums structure workmanship size and attraction can be judged and admired. Many police officers may stop and warn about the possible danger. This place became a Qarafa from 1250 until 1517. From the period of Pharaohs, the cemetery was regarded as a place where life began. Thus, people began to habitat the place and guests were invited to join the feast.