Changes of the offshore margin of the Nile delta according to historical evidences (VI-XX centuries AC)

Abstract

Comparative studies of geographical (mainly cartographical) data on the Nile delta from antique manuscripts, mediaeval Arabian geographical works and descriptions dated from the XVII -beginning of the XIX centuries A. C. reveal main trends of the offshore delta evolution throughout the historical time. Results of the studies suggest, first, gradual elimination of the delta channels (from 7 at Herodotus time to 2 at present); second, drying western flank of the delta and increasing humidity of the eastern flank. The channels atrophy is likely due to increasing usage of the Nile water for irrigation purposes; western flank drying and eastern flank wetting may result from differentiated tectonics and changes of the flow pattern within the delta.