Naoum Shebib

Naoum Shebib (1915–1985), (or Naoum Chebib,نعوم شبيب), of Lebanese origin, is considered one of the leading Egyptian architects and the precursor of modern architecture in Egypt. He was also a structural engineer and entrepreneur. His most famous work is undoubtedly the Cairo Tower, which is the tallest structure in Egypt, rising 187 meters.

Born in Cairo on 28 November 1915, Naoum Shebib was one of the leading Egyptian architects of his time. He graduated in 1937 with honors from Cairo University. He also obtained from the same university a post graduate diploma in Soil Mechanics & Engineering (1954) and another in Structural Engineering (1956). Between 1941 and 1970, Shebib conducted his practice as an architect, structural engineer and contractor. In 1971, Naoum Shebib relocated to Canada with his family, where he lived until his death in 1985.

The Cairo Tower on Gezira Island, was the highest concrete structure in the world when it was completed, standing 187 meters tall. Shebib was the project's architect in chief, structural engineer and its global contractor. In 1961 the tower's official inauguration took place. The design of the tower is of Pharaonic influence appearing in the shape of a tall lotus flower made up of 8 million small mosaic lozenges. As the lozenges ascend towards the top of the tower, they are stretched on a vertical axis creating an impression of an upward movement enhancing the figure of the lotus flower. With a diameter of fourteen meters, the tower rests on a steel-reinforced concrete slab, the dimension of which is quite impressive. At the time of its construction, more than five hundred workers were required.

The Cairo Tower is also characterized by purity of lines and by the truthfulness of primal material. The absence of any superfluous decorations and the utilization of the naked concrete bring the viewer's eyes and attention to yet another symbol of eternal Egypt. At the top of the tower, one finds a revolving restaurant, a cafeteria and a belvedere from which numerous tourists can admire the Cairo panorama.

The Al-Ahram Bldg. is the home of Al-Ahram, the leading Arab newspaper. Here also Shebib was the project's architect in chief, structural and site engineer. The surface of this building is 30,000 square meters which includes space occupied by the editorial, printing and administration services, as well as the public areas.

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