October 15 - November 3, 2012 (20 days)

Led by Dr. Emily Teeter

Emily TeeterDownload the brochure for the 2012 Legendary Empires Explore Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan to discover the treasures of history's Legendary Empires. Begin in Giza where we gaze upon the mysterious Sphinx and marvel at the Great Pyramid-the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Continue to Lebanon to view the remains of 7,000-year-old Byblos and Roman Baalbek. Enjoy a daylight transit of the Suez Canal, then travel overland to the magnificent rose-red city of Petra. Back in Egypt we visit the Monastery of St. Catherine at the base of Mt. Sinai and the resort town of Sharm el Sheikh, renowned for its beautiful scenery and healthy coral reefs. Luxor is a fitting finale to our explorations with its well-preserved temples and numerous royal tombs. Along the way we also have the opportunity to enjoy superb snorkeling, browse colorful markets, photograph timeless landscapes, and savor delectable cuisine.

This wonderful itinerary will be complemented by scholarly commentary from Dr. Emily Teeter, Oriental Institute Research Associate, in addition to other expert lecturers. Emily's many years of experience traveling these routes and her knowledge and love for the ancient and modern Near East will add enormously to your travel experience.

Learn more about the Oriental Institute's Tour to Legendary Empires.

You can reserve your place by sending your completed form to The Oriental Institute, Membership Office, 1155 E 58th St, Chicago, IL, 60637.

For additional information about the tour, call the Oriental Institute on (773) 834-9777 or email oi-membership@uchicago.edu.