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From ancient times into the present century, Egyptian agriculture depended on the annual flooding of the Nile . Crop yields were predicted and taxes were set according to the river's level in August, as measured by Nilometers. A reading of 16 ells (8.6m) foretold the valley's complete irrigation; significantly more or less meant widespread flooding or drought. Public rejoicing followed the announcement of the Wafa el-Nil (Abundance of the Nile), while any other verdict caused gloom and foreboding. Although the southern tip of Roda has probably featured a Nilometer (daily 9am-6pm; GBPE6) since pharaonic times, the existing one dates from 861 and its Turkish kiosk is actually a modern replica, built in 1947 and recently restored. Descending well below the level of the Nile, its stone-lined shaft was connected to the river by three tunnels (now sealed) at different heights - the uppermost is still accessible. Around the shaft's interior are Koranic verses in kufic script, extolling rain as God's blessing; its central column is graduated into 16 ells of roughly 54cm each. The Nilometer is often locked, but its caretaker will turn out for rare visitors. The ticket for the Nilometer also admits you to the neighbouring Monastirli Palace , a Rococo confection dating from 1850. Built as a conference centre, the palace is now undergoing transformation into an arts centre with a theatre, exhibition hall and library.
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