Jezirat Faraun

	The pool at the far end of the island was once a harbour open to the sea

I have a very old book about Palestine, illustrated with steel engravings (that's how old it is!), and one of the pictures shows this remote island crowned by a crumbling castle. I thought it was impossibly romantic and longed to see it.

Then, about twelve years ago, I happened to travel from Nuweiba to Taba and even though I only glimpsed the island between hills, I instantly recognised it. I was astonished to discover that it was only a couple of miles south of Aqaba!

Anyway, here is part of the story of this castle; I'm sure there must be more to it. Israeli scuba divers claim that the pool at the south end of the island was once open to the sea and formed a harbour where Solomon's treasure fleet had its base. If I find out more, I'll just have to visit the place again.