A small geological reserve near Abu Rawash, west of Giza, protecting exposed rock layers and fossils from the age of the dinosaurs.
- Arabic name
- محمية قبة الحسنة
- Type
- Protected area
- Governorate
- Giza
- Area
- 0.80 km²
- Protected since
- 1989
- Nearest city guide
- Giza
- Official website
- eeaa.gov.eg
Hassana Dome lies in the desert near Abu Rawash, a few kilometres north-west of the Giza Pyramids. It is a natural monument, a dome-shaped uplift of the earth’s crust that has brought ancient rock layers to the surface.
The geology
Erosion of the dome exposes a sequence of Cretaceous rocks laid down when much of northern Egypt was covered by sea. Geologists come to study the folding and faulting, and the rocks contain marine fossils such as oysters and other shells. The site is regularly used for university field training and is considered one of the classic geological localities near Cairo.
Visiting
There are no tourist facilities, and the protectorate is surrounded by quarrying and urban growth. It is best visited with a geology group or a specialist guide. Visitors heading to the pyramid of Djedefre at Abu Rawash pass nearby, and the site can be combined with Giza in a half day.
Best time
October to April, early in the day, when the desert is cool.
Entry fee: not confirmed; access by arrangement (last checked October 2026).
Last checked October 2026. Entry fees and access rules change; check with the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency or a local operator before you go. Sources: eeaa.gov.eg, en.wikipedia.org.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hassana Dome?
A geological natural monument near Abu Rawash, north-west of the Giza Pyramids, where an uplift of the earth's crust exposes Cretaceous rock layers with marine fossils such as oysters.
Is it set up for tourists?
No. There are no facilities and the site is surrounded by quarrying and urban growth. It is best visited with a geology group or a specialist guide.
Can I combine it with other sights?
Yes, it lies near the pyramid of Djedefre at Abu Rawash and can be combined with Giza in a half day.
When should I go and is there a fee?
October to April, early in the day. No fee has been confirmed, and access is by arrangement.
