The Ancient and Modern facets of Alexandria

Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the northern port city of Alexandria was the capital of Hellenistic, Roman & Byzantine Egypt for nearly 1,000 years. In its prime, as a thriving center of culture and civilization, Alexandria was famed for both its Lighthouse (which, standing 450 feet tall, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) and for being home to the largest library in antiquity. Still one of the world’s most important trade cities, Alexandria is truly one of Egypt’s most fascinating historical destinations.

Touring Ancient Alexandria

Though its two most iconic structures have long since vanished, a number of sites and attractions standing today still bear witness to Alexandria’s grandeur. Erected in 297 AD, Pompey’s Pillar, a Roman triumphal column found in the city’s acropolis, is still one of the world’s largest ancient monoliths. Not far from the pillar is the Kom el Shoqafa, the ancient necropolis of Alexandria. Home to ancient tombs, statues and archaeological objects, this labyrinth of catacombs runs through three levels of solid rock, the lower of which is now underwater. However, visitors can still access the first level and get a glimpse of the eerie Hall of Caracalla’s mass grave. Another important ancient site of Alexandria is the 4^th century Roman Amphitheater, which is still being excavated. Home to ancient mosaic tile flooring, marble seating (for up to 800 people) and well-preserved galleries, this ancient theater provides visitors with another amazing glimpse into Alexandria’s rich history.

If you are looking for more information on the city’s rich past, a visit to the National Museum is a great way to spend a few hours. With over 1,800 artifacts narrating the history of both Egypt and Alexandria, a tour of this informative museum is an absolute must!

Exploring Alexandria’s More Recent History

Though exploring its ancient past is one of the most enthralling things to do in Alexandria, the city is also home to some more recent historical sites. Dating to the 15^th century, the Citadel of Qaitbay was the city’s most important fortification, sitting along the Mediterranean coastline (on the spot where the ancient Alexandria Lighthouse once stood). Repeatedly renovated and restored throughout its existence, the Qaitbay Citadel is one of the city’s modern icons.

Another famous structure in the city is the El-Mursi Abu'l-'Abbas Mosque,built in the 1400’s atop the grave of Spanish / Alexandrian Sufi Saint El Mursi. Subsequent rulers added to the initial mausoleum, creating the grandiose stone structure that stands today. From its 240-foot tall minaret to its opulent ceilings and marble floors, this mosque is one of the city’s most stunning structures.

A final must-visit icon of the city is the late 19^th century Montaza Palace. Built by the Khedive Abbas II as a hunting lodge / rest place and embellished by King Fuad I in 1931 (when the larger Al-Haramlik palace and gardens were added), this sprawling complex is now open to the public as both a park and a museum.

Looking to dive deeper into the city’s history? Hire a top-rated Alexandria tour guide to both explain and escort you around all the sites of this ancient metropolis.

Modern Day Alexandria

While the historical sites are an important aspect of the city, Alexandria also has a beautiful modern side that visitors will quickly fall in love with. From the recently constructed Bibliotheca Alexandrina (a library, cultural center and interactive monument to the lost “Great Library”) to the vibrant downtown and Corniche waterfront region, there are loads of attractions to keep visitors entertained. During your travels through modern day Alexandria don’t forget to sample the fresh seafood (a visit to the Alexandria Fish Market is highly recommended), take a boat tour on the River Nile and shop in the central Souq Ibrahimiyya; it may not be as busy as Cairo’s markets but it is definitely worth a visit!

Image Details and Licenses: https://flic.kr/p/6D3duL (Giorgio Montersino, CC BY-SA 2.0)  https://flic.kr/p/xM6ZL (Eve Fouché, CC BY 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/4yUoq6 (Dan Diffendale, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0),  https://flic.kr/p/gjGH1H (Dennis Tsang, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/7QoTbs (thecrawfordsphotos, CC BY-NC 2.0) https://flic.kr/p/baj3j2 (Cycling man, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/5bYb39 (Ting Chen, CC BY-SA 2.0)