Aswan is located in the south of Egypt, which has been called Swenett. Swenett is said to have taken its name from an Egyptian deity of the same name. The city's original name is also said to stem from the Egyptian sign for commerce or market. It is known for the many ancient sites and the high dam which protects the country from the flooding Nile. The Nile river is running along the city and you can see many boats sailing which is a touristic attaction.