Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the city of Alexandria rose to become the second largest city in the Roman Empire. It inspired two of the world's seven wonders, The Pharos Lighthouse that was built in the third century BC and stood over a thousand years, The Great Library that profoundly influenced the western thought before being destroyed by a mysterious fire in 640 AD

Greco-Roman period

The Greco Roman Museum. Pompey's Pillar. Al Anfushi Tombs. Al Shatby Necropolis. Catacombs & the Roman Theatre "Kom El Dekka".

Islamic sights

Neighborhoods of Al Gomruk & Al Anfushi. Abu El Abbass El Morsi & El Attareen Mosque. Qaitbey Fortress.

The Mohamed Aly period and 19th & 20th century

Montazah Gardens & Palace. The Museum of Fine Art & Royal Jewelry. Nelson Island (the site of the 'Abu-Quir' battle between 'Napoleon' and the British Commander 'Nelson'). Post-colonial architecture like Cecil Hotel. El Alamein, the World War II battlefield that showed the famous battle between the famous German 'Rommel' & the Brit 'Montgomery'. (Now it hosts the cemeteries of the Germans, British, Italians & a Military Museum). Greek poet Cavafy's apartment has been restored as a museum on the top floor of the Greek Consulate.

Today's places of interest

Alexandria as a year-round resort, in winter the sun still shines along the white sand coast while yachts race in the harbor. In summer, sun lovers seek out the cooling sea breezes. The city center stretches from Saad Zaghloul Square. to the seafront with the statue of Saad Pacha. Strolling around here one can still see old street nameplates and find jewelers and antique shops for which the area was known. Close by, at Shatby district, there is The Alexandria Library. A result of international efforts to the revival of the ancient library of Alexandria that was considered as the first world's university with its college scholars including famous names as Euclid, Eratosthenes, Heron & Archimedes.