Alexandria, Egypt’s second city, is a bustling metropolis situated on the Mediterranean coast at the western edge of the Nile Delta. While it may be challenging for any city to rival Cairo in terms of historic architecture and monuments, Alexandria boasts a rich and storied history that sets it apart. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria predates Cairo by nearly 1400 years. It swiftly rose to prominence, becoming one of the world’s wealthiest, largest, and most culturally vibrant cities. However, much of its iconic past has been obscured over time. Natural disasters, repeated conquests and sieges, and the city’s history of being rebuilt on top of itself have resulted in the loss of many ancient and historic sites. Nonetheless, Alexandria remains a captivating city, offering its residents and visitors immediate access to the stunning beaches of the Mediterranean.
Alexandria catacombs of Kom el-Shuqafa:
The tombs at Kom Al-Shuqafa are believed to have originally belonged to a wealthy Roman family who began using them for burials around the 2nd century AD. However, the complex underwent significant expansion and continued to be used until the 4th century AD. This burial site contains numerous graves, including a mass grave containing both animal and human remains. It is associated with a mass execution ordered by the Roman Emperor Caracalla in 215 AD, which took place in Alexandria. The tombs are arranged around a central spiral staircase that leads down through multiple levels. While some lower levels are submerged, accessible areas of the tombs feature extensively decorated walls. What makes these tombs particularly intriguing is the fusion of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian iconography displayed in their construction. This unique blend of artistic styles reflects the era in which they were built and adds to the historical and cultural significance of the Kom Al-Shuqafa tombs.
The Library of Alexandria:
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a remarkable architectural marvel of the 21st century, paying homage to the ancient legacy of Alexandria. Inaugurated in 2002, it serves as a library and cultural center, commemorating Alexandria’s historical significance as a center of learning and culture. The original Great Library of Alexandria was established in the 3rd century BC, shortly after the city’s founding by Alexander the Great. It is renowned as one of the most significant achievements of ancient Alexandria. The library, along with the Mouseion, a larger institution of learning, played a crucial role in preserving much of the knowledge of the ancient world. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina aims to revive the intellectual brilliance that once emanated from Alexandria. The library itself features a vast and visually stunning main reading room and has the capacity to store nearly 9 million books. Additionally, the complex houses several specialized libraries, a conference center, art galleries for both permanent and temporary exhibitions, and even a planetarium. With its impressive facilities and dedication to knowledge and culture, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands as a symbol of Alexandria’s rich heritage and its commitment to fostering intellectual pursuits in the present day.
Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria:
Sultan Qaitbey constructed the picturesque fortress during the 14th century with the intention of defending Alexandria against the advancing Ottoman Empire. Despite his efforts, the Ottomans eventually gained control of Egypt in 1512. However, the fortress itself has endured and remains situated on a narrow strip of land extending into Alexandria’s harbor from the corniche. The current form of the fortress is not its original state. It suffered significant damage during the British bombardment of Alexandria in 1882, which occurred during a nationalist uprising against British dominance. Subsequently, the fortress was rebuilt around the beginning of the 20th century. Qaitbey strategically chose this location for the fortress due to the existing foundation on the site, which was once home to the legendary Pharos Lighthouse. By the 14th century, the lighthouse had fallen into ruins due to repeated damage caused by earthquakes. Qaitbey utilized this foundation to construct his fortress, capitalizing on the advantageous position it offered. Today, the Qaitbey Fortress stands as a testament to Alexandria’s history and the efforts made to protect the city from various threats throughout the centuries.
Montazah Park Alexandria:
Montazah, located along the Alexandrian coastline, was originally constructed by Khedive Abbas II as a summer residence during his reign from 1892 to 1914 in the Khedivate of Egypt and Sudan. Following the Free Officers Revolution in 1952, which resulted in the removal of the ruling family from power, the Montazah palaces and gardens became less exclusive. Today, the gardens have been transformed into a well-maintained and visually appealing public seaside park. It has become a popular destination for relaxation and leisurely walks in Alexandria, with a modest entrance fee of 50 piasters. Within the Montazah grounds, there were two palaces. The first, known as Al Salamlik, was initially constructed in 1892 as a hunting lodge for the Khedive and his companions. In the 1970s, the palace underwent renovations and was repurposed as an official presidential residence during the summer months. Montazah’s transformation from a private summer retreat to a public park has made it an accessible and enjoyable destination for both locals and visitors, offering a serene and picturesque environment along the Alexandrian coastline.
