Damietta

Damietta, a town and river-port of Lower Egypt, on the right bank of the eastern branch of the Nile, about 8 miles above its junction with the sea. The want of a good harbour and the commercial growth of Alexandria have impaired its prosperity, especially in its trade relations with European countries. Its exports consist chiefly of grain, fish, rice, coffee, dates, hides, and tallow. It is 113 miles N. by E. from Cairo by rail, and, though destitute of any remains of antiquity, contains several handsome buildings, including mosques, khans, cafes, and kiosks. The climate is considered salubrious.