The satellite town of Akhmin covers the ruins of the ancient Egyptian town of Ipu, itself built over an older predynastic settlement. It was dedicated to Min, a fertility god often represented by a giant phallus, equated with Pan by the Greeks (who later called the town Panopolis). The current name contains an echo of the god's name.

Akhmin was famed in antiquity for its textiles - one of its current weavers calls it 'Manchester before history'. The tradition continues today and opposite the statue of Meret Amun, across from the post office, a green door leads to a small weaving factory (knock if it is shut). Here you can see weavers at work and buy hand-woven silk and cotton textiles straight from the bolt or packets of ready-made tablecloths and serviettes.

Currently you will be escorted to Akhmin and will need to go by taxi. Otherwise, a microbus from Sohag to Akhmin takes 15 minutes. Check the security situation with the Sohag Tourist Police.