Damiatte

Damiatte is a city located in Lower Egypt, on the Damietta branch of the Nile River. It serves as the capital of the Damietta Governorate. Historically, Damiatte was a significant port city, particularly during the medieval period, playing a crucial role in trade between Egypt and Europe. Its strategic location also made it a target for numerous Crusader campaigns.

During the Fifth Crusade (1218-1221), Damiatte was besieged and captured by Crusader forces, remaining under their control for several years before being retaken by the Ayyubid Sultan al-Kamil. The city was later targeted again during the Seventh Crusade (1249) led by Louis IX of France, who briefly captured it before being defeated and taken prisoner. The repeated Crusader incursions led to the eventual destruction and relocation of the city further inland by the Mamluk Sultan Baibars in the 13th century.

Modern Damiatte is an important agricultural and industrial center. It is known for its furniture production, textiles, and fishing industry. The Damietta Port, located at the mouth of the Nile, is a major modern shipping facility that contributes significantly to Egypt's economy.