The Sofitel Legend Old Cataract was built by Thomas Cook to house Europeans Travelers. This iconic British colonial-era gran hotel opened its doors in January 1900 and hosted numerous celebrities for over 100 years. Hotel's Golden Book includes: Tsar Nicholas II, Wiston Churchill, Henry Kissinger, Fracoise Mitterrand, Margaret Thatcher, Jimmy Carter, Princess Diana Spencer. Its maintenance and recovery is an example of cultural heritage for its historical importance.