Mersa Matruh, Egypt Tourism

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the Libyan frontier.

Now the principal resort on the stretch of coast known, by virtue of its mild climate, picturesque rocky coves, fascinatingly hued sea and superb beaches of fine white sand, as the "Egyptian Riviera", Mersa Matruh was already a popular summer resort in ancient times. The harbor provided a base for Cleopatra's fleet during the conflict with Augustus; and remains of ancient quays, traces of settlement and the ruins of an Early Christian church have been brought to light. Mersa Matruh is now the administrative center of the Northwest Frontier District and the base of the Egyptian sponge fishing fleet, and is also a busy trading center for the bedouin of the Western (Libyan) Desert, who bring to market here their sheep, wool and agricultural produce (barley, dates, olives, excellent melons).