In the western desert of Egypt lies the charming oasis settlement of Siwa, a place that has attracted architects and enthusiasts for ages, eager to marvel at its unique African pigeon towers and other interesting buildings.

These towers, built by the Egyptians since ancient times, were designed with a purpose in mind. By placing them among farmland, the idea was that the pigeons would feast on harmful insects that could threaten crops, and they’d also help tidy up any stray seeds that weren’t planted correctly.

But the pigeon towers weren’t just practical; they also served as a means of communication. Egyptians discovered as early as 3000 BC that homing pigeons could always find their way back to the towers where they were born.

Another crucial reason for these towers was the pigeons themselves. In a country with limited pastureland for livestock, pigeons provided a valuable source of protein for the local population.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the site!