A Sightseeing Guide to Alexandria: Discovering the City’s Most Famous Attractions

Alexandria, the historic city of Egypt, is known for its inspiring landmarks, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the city boasts a rich history that attracts millions of tourists every year. In this blog post, we will guide you through the most famous sightseeing attractions that must be on your bucket list when you visit Alexandria.

The Great Library of Alexandria

The Great Library of Alexandria is considered one of the greatest libraries in the ancient world. Established by Ptolemy I Soter in the 3rd century BC, the library housed the largest collection of books, manuscripts, and papyri in the world. Unfortunately, the library was destroyed in several fires and wars in the following centuries. However, the new library of Alexandria, opened in 2002, aims to revive the spirit of the ancient library by collecting, preserving, and sharing knowledge and culture from all around the world. With more than 8 million books and digital materials, the library also hosts a planetarium, a conference center, and an art gallery, making it a must-visit attraction for book lovers and scholars.

The Citadel of Qaitbay

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century fortress built on the remains of the ancient lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The citadel was erected by Sultan Qaitbay in 1477 AD to protect the city from foreign invasions. Today, the citadel serves as a museum that showcases the history of the fortress and the daily life of its inhabitants during the Ottoman era. Visitors can explore the fortress’s towers, courtyards, and galleries, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Mediterranean sea from its walls.

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are a complex of underground tombs that were used by the Romans during the 2nd century AD. The tombs reflect the fusion of the Roman and the Egyptian styles in their architecture and decoration. The catacombs consist of three levels that include a vast hall, a burial chamber, and a chapel adorned with colorful frescoes and statues. Visitors can also see a Roman-style banquet hall where families used to gather and commemorate their deceased loved ones. The catacombs are a testimony to the multicultural heritage of Alexandria and a must-visit attraction for history and culture enthusiasts.

Pompey’s Pillar

Pompey’s Pillar is a granite column that stands 25 meters tall in the middle of the Serapeum complex in Alexandria. The column is believed to have been erected by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in honor of the victory of his general Pompey in 297 AD. The column is one of the largest ancient monoliths in the world, and its base is embellished with hieroglyphic inscriptions that tell the story of the Serapeum and the city. Visitors can climb the stairs to reach the top of the column and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean sea.

The Montaza Palace

The Montaza Palace is a royal palace located on the outskirts of Alexandria that was built in 1892 AD by the Khedive Abbas Helmi II. The palace was later expanded and renovated during the reign of King Farouk in the 20th century. The palace is famous for its impressive architecture that blends Ottoman, Islamic, and European styles, as well as its lush gardens and panoramic sea views. The palace is now open to the public as a museum that displays the royal family’s belongings, costumes, and daily life objects, as well as a grand ballroom and a theater.

Conclusion

Alexandria is a city that never fails to impress its visitors with its rich cultural and historical heritage. In this blog post, we have introduced you to the most famous sightseeing attractions that you shouldn’t miss when you visit Alexandria. From the ancient library to the royal palace, and from the underground catacombs to the majestic column, Alexandria offers a unique journey to the heart of the past and the present. Make sure to include these must-visit attractions in your itinerary and immerse yourself in the magic of the city.

An Insider’s Guide to Alexandria: More Than Just Tourist Attractions

Alexandria is a city full of history and mysteries that captivate tourists and the locals alike. With a rich culture and heritage that spans for centuries, the city has numerous attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some hidden gems, unique dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will help you discover Alexandria in a new and exciting way.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Sure, everyone wants to see the grandeur of the Library of Alexandria or explore the ancient monuments of the city. Still, Alexandria has plenty of local attractions that only locals know about. For example, take a stroll around the Montaza Palace Gardens, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and wander around a beautiful garden, which used to be the king’s summer palace. For art lovers, an excellent spot is the Alexandria Arts Center, which houses a permanent exhibition of contemporary Egyptian art and hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase the talent of local artists.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Local Cuisine

Food is an essential part of Alexandria’s culture, and no visit would be complete without trying some of the city’s specialties. Forget about international fast-food chains and instead explore the local markets, where you can indulge in delicious dishes such as koshari, a mixture of rice, lentils, and crispy fried onions, or ful medames, a hearty breakfast dish made of fava beans and served with olive oil, lemon, and bread. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, take a food tour to explore the different neighborhoods of Alexandria, taste the local street food, and learn about the city’s food culture and traditions.

Cultural Experiences: Connecting with Alexandria’s Heritage

Alexandria is a city that treasures its heritage, and you can experience it in various ways. For example, take a walk through the city’s streets, and you’ll see many remnants of the past, such as Greek, Roman, and Islamic architecture, influenced by Alexandria’s multicultural history. Visit the Alexandria National Museum, which houses artifacts from different eras, from the Pharaonic era to the Islamic and modern times. For music enthusiasts, a magical experience, try to catch a Sufi music concert at the Alexandria Opera House, where musicians use traditional instruments and chants to create an enchanting atmosphere.

Local History: Revealing Captivating Stories

Alexandria’s rich history is full of drama and mysteries, and it’s worth exploring beyond the facts. For instance, discover the story of Cleopatra’s Palace, which may lie submerged off the shores of Alexandria. Dive into the mystery of the lost library, which used to house the world’s most extensive collection of ancient knowledge and burned down in a fire that remains unexplained to this day. Let yourself be mesmerized by the story of Alexander the Great, who founded the city and left his mark on Alexandria’s legacy.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories

Finally, here are some unconventional suggestions that will make your trip to Alexandria unforgettable. Go for a hike in Wadi El Natrun, a nearby valley that houses ancient monasteries and salt lakes with therapeutic properties. Take a sunset cruise on the Nile and enjoy the warm breeze, the traditional music, and the magical views of the city as the sun sets over the horizon. Finally, take a walk through the narrow streets of the Mediterranean’s oldest fishing village, Abu Qir, and experience the authentic local life and enjoy fresh seafood cooked right on the beach.

In conclusion, Alexandria is a city full of surprises and wonders. Follow this insider’s guide, and you’ll discover the city’s hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, captivating history, and unforgettable memories. Share your experiences with your friends and family, and spread the love for Alexandria.