Alexandria, often known as “Al-Iskandariya” in Arabic, it held the celebrated title of the capital of Egypt for nearly a millennium earlier than regularly shedding its significance.
In trendy instances, nonetheless, Alexandria has grow to be a significant vacation spot for exploration when visiting the African continent. What distinctive experiences await you on this fascinating metropolis?
Uncover extra about Alexandria and its charms by our unique Egypt journey packages and thrilling Egypt journey.
Alexandria, the second largest metropolis in Egypt after Cairo, is situated on the Egyptian coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s typically referred to as “Pearl of the Mediterranean”Till 1952, Alexandria attracted many European entrepreneurs with its wealth of points of interest, huge sandy seashores, cultural festivals and average local weather.
In consequence, regardless of being solely 225 km from Cairo, this port metropolis exudes a Mediterranean fairly than an Arabian ambiance.
Historical past of the town
The town of Alexandria dates again to 322 BC when it was based by Alexander the Nice on the age of 25.
Positioned on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the town of Alexandria served because the capital of Egypt throughout the Ptolemaic period till it will definitely misplaced its significance and place because the capital.
Alexander the Nice, after liberating Egypt from the Persian Empire, determined to construct a brand new metropolis linked by sea to his homeland, Macedonia. He selected the fishing village of Rhakotis, which had a pure harbor, and commissioned his architect Deinocrates to remodel it into what we all know as we speak as the town of Alexandria. It’s value noting that Alexander was not allowed to be buried within the historic capital Memphis, as a result of he refused it in favor of constructing Alexandria.
What’s the metropolis of Alexandria well-known for?
The Lighthouse of the Pharaohs in Alexandria is named one of many Seven Wonders of the Historic World and the primary lighthouse on the planet. French archaeologists found greater than 3,300 fragments of the lighthouse, which are actually on show in Alexandria’s museums.
Constructed throughout the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus by the Ptolemaic Kingdom of historic Egypt, it stood at an unbelievable peak of at the least 100 meters (330 toes). It held the title of tallest constructing on the planet for hundreds of years till the Eiffel Tower was inbuilt 1889.
Though it not exists because of injury from three main earthquakes, the stays of this historic landmark can nonetheless be admired underwater by diving.
Nonetheless, it’s attention-grabbing that elements of Alexandria are actually beneath water. The stays of Cleopatra’s palace, over 7,000 colossal statues, numerous gold and silver cash and numerous different artifacts which have surfaced all through historical past lie at depths of 8-15 meters under sea degree within the Abu Kir harbor basin. Recognizing their significance, the Egyptian authorities has made plans for an underwater museum the place divers can already admire these exceptional discoveries.
Alexandria’s notable landmarks embody the Qait Bay fortress with panoramic views of the town, the Greco-Roman Museum with historic treasures, the catacombs referred to as Kom El-Shokafa, the excessive Morsi Abu El-Abbas mosque, the practically 27-meter-high Pompey’s Column and the Montazah Palace – as soon as a summer season the residence of King Farouk – with its enchanting park.
The crown of this vibrant metropolis is undoubtedly the Bibliotheca Alexandrina – the brand new library of Alexandria – and its accompanying cultural heart.
Structure of the town
Alexandria was initially divided into three distinct areas:
- Rhakotis, which was the unique metropolis assimilated into Alexandria;
- Brucheum, the splendid royal or Greek quarter;
- and the Jewish area within the northeast.
The town boasted two distinguished colonnaded streets, every about 60 meters huge, which intersected within the coronary heart of Alexandria. Its strategic location between the Mediterranean and Purple Seas made it a significant heart for commerce, making it one among Egypt’s most necessary business facilities.
Finest time to go to
The best time to discover Alexandria is autumn (late September to early November) and spring (March and April). Throughout this time, the climate is pleasantly average, making it good for having fun with the architectural wonders of the town.