The cultural treasures of Egypt are not limited solely to the remains of the pharaohs. Greco-Roman civilization, the Muslim conquest, Napoleon Bonaparte's campaign, and even World War II have left their imprint on one particular city in the country: Alexandria.

Situated in northern Egypt, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, beautiful Alexandria was founded in 331 BCE by Alexander the Great. Its legendary library, its underwater remains, and the diversity of its architecture, reshaped over time, make it the sanctuary for lovers of history, art, and Egypt.

History

A builder-king, Alexander the Great loved demonstrating his supremacy within the lands he had conquered by constructing impressive cities. The most important of these is the present-day city of Alexandria, in Egypt.

Founded in 331 BCE, the ancient city of knowledge was the greatest city of the Greek world during the Hellenistic era.

The Greeks had built a metropolis worthy of their renown. The city's overall layout was grid-based, punctuated by impressive structures. Among them, a lighthouse unrivaled in the world, a library that contained nearly all the knowledge accumulated by the Greek people, a royal palace of breathtaking splendor, and various temples honoring their gods.

Then came Roman domination around 30 BCE. The new conquering people did not hesitate to seize the city for its wealth and imprint their mark upon it. They enriched the city's structure by constructing houses, a Ptolemaic temple, a bath, and a theater.

Following this period came the Arab conquest, the Fifth Crusade, and the landing of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798, then the British.

Each civilization brought its share of riches, but also destruction. The city's impressive library was burned. And one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, collapsed during an earthquake.

One of the most decisive battles of the North African campaign during World War II took place at El Alamein, nearly 112 km from the city.

The present-day city of Alexandria was built upon the remains of the ancient city of knowledge.

Alexandria Today

The ancient and new city of Alexandria overlap, offering architecture that blends modernity with a style reminiscent of Greco-Roman civilization.

The ancient city is still there. The Qaitbay Citadel, the island of Pharos, the Gymnasium, the Dicsasterium, the Soma, the Palace of Justice, the port, Pompey's Column, and the Roman theater all evoke the glorious city of Alexander the Great. The National Museum of Alexandria, on Tariq Al-Horreya Street, houses treasures from the era and allows visitors to journey through time via its impressive collection of maps, guides, and works of art.

Some structures were developed later. The modernity thus brought reinforces the city's origins while pointing toward the future. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina brings the ancient library back to life. This cultural center is said to house nearly eight million volumes covering all subjects.

Other exceptional places such as the underwater museum, the Corniche, and the Palace and gardens of Montazah make modern Alexandria the worthy heir to the ancient city.

What to Do During a Stay in Alexandria?

A visit to the city and its mythical sites

A trip to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is well worth the detour. This emblematic cultural center of the city houses the world's largest reading room and can contain up to eight million volumes. It is also equipped with three museums displaying antiquities from the Greco-Roman era and Pharaonic Egypt, as well as a planetarium that will delight both young and old.

The Qaitbay Citadel is an essential destination within the city. It was here that the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood. Built by Sostratus of Cnidus, it was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.

Beholding the immensity of the Mediterranean Sea while strolling along the Corniche is a most pleasant moment. Admiring the city from there makes one appreciate the elegance of this new city, both modern and rooted in the past.

In the city center, you can also visit the remains of the theater, dwellings, and Ptolemaic temple that the Romans had constructed.

Egyptian culture remains deeply embedded within the city. The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa immerse us once more in this world. It is the largest funerary complex in all of Egypt. Through its underground galleries, you rediscover ancient Egyptian funeral rites and the mysteries they hold.

The city is rich in culture and mythical sites. Contemplate the Palace Ras el-Tin, stroll through the gardens of Montazah, or marvel at Pompey's Column. This experience cannot be compared to any other journey.

Underwater Diving

Combining a love of the sea and archaeology seems inconceivable. Yet many do so each year in the Bay of Alexandria. The remains of Cleopatra's sunken palace astonish everyone who discovers them.

Local Cuisine

Alexandria's restaurants abound with dishes of all kinds. Among them, one must not overlook falafel, Ful Mudammas, or the local fondue. And restaurants along the fish market in the Anfushi district offer the best seafood dishes in the entire city.

Shopping

Alexandria is full of shopping centers where you can find all sorts of souvenirs to take home. The best spot in the city remains the souk. You'll find a host of small specialized shops.

The Climate

Thanks to the moderating effect of the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria enjoys a rather stable climate, with no significant temperature variation throughout the year. The thermometer hovers between 20°C and 32°C. Maximum temperatures are especially reached in June.

Rain is quite rare. Showers occur mainly in winter, particularly in December.

It is possible to fly to Alexandria and land at Borg El Arab International Airport after approximately seven to nine hours of flight.

A visit to the city can also be part of a cruise on the Mediterranean Sea.

However, if you had planned to arrive at Cairo's international airport, it is always possible to take the train from the capital or travel by highway by taking a bus from the bus station.

How to get around the city?

Beautiful Alexandria is full of hotels for all budgets. From there, to visit the city, the simplest option is to take a taxi and indicate where you want to go.

For the adventurous, it is equally possible to take the tram, bus, or even a minibus to the district of the tourist site you wish to explore.