Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria was once the radiant center of scholarship where thinkers from all walks of life came together to share ideas and discoveries. Today, the city retains that mystical aura and remains a must-see for any traveler looking to explore Egypt.
A rich heritage
Antiquity
The history of Alexandria dates back to antiquity. Under Ptolemy I, the city became the capital of Egypt and saw the construction of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Great Library of Alexandria, which served as the epicenter knowledge of the time. These iconic monuments have left an indelible mark, even though they have since disappeared.
Muslim and Ottoman era
From 641, Alexandria entered an era of Muslim rule which saw the city flourish under a new culture. The Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th century fortress built on the site of the old lighthouse, is an outstanding example of Islamic architecture of the time.
The modern era
Au XIXcentury, under the reign of Muhammad Ali Pasha, the city was revitalized, regaining its former prestige. Later, at XXe century, Alexandria became a true cultural crossroads, welcoming diverse communities of Italians, Greeks, British and Jews.
What to see in Alexandria?
Qaitbay Citadel
Today, the citadel of Qaitbay, with its sturdy walls and panoramic sea views, is a must visit place. This imposing fortress offers visitors a glimpse of the military power of medieval Egypt and the splendid views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Pompey's Pillar
Another iconic site is Pompey's Pillar, a 3rd century Roman monument that is one of the largest monolithic columns ever built. Its fascinating history and impressive size attract many tourists.
The Greco-Roman Museum
The Greco-Roman Museum, with its rich collection of over 40 objects, offers insight into the influence of Greece and Rome on the city. This museum houses artifacts from the Ptolemaic period to the Byzantine period, allowing visitors to follow the evolution of art and culture in Alexandria.
The New Library of Alexandria
The iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern reincarnation of the Great Library of Alexandria. With its impressive cylindrical facade, this modern cultural center houses several museums, a planetarium and a library containing millions of books.
Montaza's garden
Montaza Garden is a beautiful public garden of 150 hectares that runs along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered by two palaces built by the Egyptian royal family, the Montaza Palace and the Al-Haramlik Palace. These two palaces are striking examples of Italian Renaissance and Turkish Art Nouveau era palace architecture, with Islamic and Byzantine touches. They are open to the public and house museums. The garden itself is a lovely place to stroll, with stunning sea views and a variety of flowers and trees.
Anfoushi district
The Anfoushi district is a residential area that is full of historic buildings, mosques and mausoleums dating back to the Mamluk period in Egypt. Perhaps the most famous is the Mausoleum of El-Nabi Daniel, which is believed to contain the remains of the Old Testament prophet Daniel. It is also the location of the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, an imposing religious building that is one of the most important spiritual centers for Muslims in Egypt.
The El Raml district
The El Raml neighborhood, also known as the European Quarter, is the vibrant heart of Alexandria. This neighborhood is a mix of European and Egyptian architecture, with Art Nouveau and Neoclassical buildings lining the streets. It is also home to the Alexandria Opera Theater, which hosts classical music concerts and opera performances throughout the year.
The catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
The Kom El Shoqafa catacombs are an extensive network of tombs dating back to Roman times. They are considered one of the largest Roman burial sites in Egypt and are famous for their unique blend of Egyptian, Greek and Roman art. The catacombs are a maze of passageways and burial chambers, with carvings and wall paintings that provide fascinating insight into antiquity.
The National Museum of Alexandria
The Alexandria National Museum is an archaeological museum that houses over 1 artifacts that tell the story of Alexandria and Egypt. The museum is housed in a restored Italian palace and its collections cover the Pharaonic, Ptolemaic, Roman, Byzantine and Islamic periods.
Culinary experiences
Don't miss the opportunity to explore authentic Egyptian cuisine in Alexandria. Try 'foul' and 'falafel', two staple dishes, or sample fresh Mediterranean fish. You can also sip a traditional coffee at one of the city's many cafes.
Whether you are passionate about history, culture, food or simply unique experiences, Alexandria offers something for everyone. This Egyptian city, with its ancient treasures and modern charms, is a travel destination that promises an unforgettable adventure. Don't hesitate, Alexandria is waiting for you!