MARSA MATRUH

town and capital of Matruh muhafazah (governorate), on the Mediterranean coast, Western Desert, in northwestern Egypt. The town serves as a market and distribution centre for the surrounding agricultural region. Olives, barley, and fruits are grown, and there are vineyards as well. Sheep and goats are raised. Winter rains (58 inches [125200 mm]) provide most of the water needed in the coastal zone, which is 1220 miles (1932 km) wide. Wells provide additional supplies. Matruh's pleasant Mediterranean climate and fine beaches have made it a vacation and resort centre. The town has port facilities and has become a transshipment centre with the growth of mineral exploration in various parts of the muhafazah. A railway and highway link the town to Alexandria 168 miles (270 km) east and the Libyan border to the west. There is also a road to Siwa Oasis. Pop. (1984 est.) 40,470.