Alexandria

An historic city that was created by Alexander the Great, Alexandria is a popular destination for tourists. Located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, there are many activities for visitors on the water and along the shoreline. Historic places to visit include Kom El Dikka, the old amphitheatre and Kom El Shoqafa. Museums around Alexandria exhibit many ancient artefacts and some of the places to go are the Royal Jewelry Museum, The Museum of Fine Arts, Cavafy museum and The Alexandria National Museum. Famous for its library in the past, the new Alexandria Library is a tourist attraction and also has a museum.

Top 10 things to do in Alexandria

Alexandria is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world with a history that spans more than 2,300 years. Thus, unsurprisingly, it is the home of many centuries-old structures. Before its destruction by an earthquake, the 120 meter Lighthouse of Pharos, Alexandria was acknowledged as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

1. Fort Qaitbey – Constructed in the 15th century on the same peninsula that the Lighthouse of Pharos once stood, the fort is today a naval museum. Plan to spend at least one hour if you want to explore the fort’s towers and rooms and take in the fantastic views of the Mediterranean and downtown Alexandria.

2. The Corniche – Running along Alexandria’s eastern harbour is The Corniche road. If you are looking for the perfect waterfront stroll, the Corniche is the place to do it. There are a number of restaurants along the road. Make sure you sample the freshly caught sea food.

3. Attarine Souk – A winding maze of narrow streets, a little like the narrow streets of old Istanbul – only that the ones at Attarine Souk are too narrow to drive on. There are hundreds of boutiques and antique shops. Prices are negotiable so make the most of every opportunity to bargain.

4. Greco Roman Museum – Alexandria was the principal city of Egypt’s Greco-Roman era in the 3rd century BC and was a multi-cultural melting pot throughout the Roman and Hellenistic dispensation. The museum showcases many of the objects that still remain from this period.

5. Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque – The mosque was constructed at the end of the 17th century by Algerians. The architecture is impressive with the coloured translucent skylights, gigantic granite pillars, meticulously carved windows and marble paved floors. Note that women are not allowed in the mosque but can take a peek from a barrier.

6. Kom el-Dikka – The ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheatre that is still undergoing excavation but that is fairly well preserved. Other than being a place of important historical significance, Kom el-Dikka also has a relaxing ambience ideal for outdoor picnics.

7. The catacombs (Kom el-Shuqafa) – Dating back to the 1st century AD, the catacombs are a classic example of ancient art and technology. This is the largest burial site of Roman noblemen so far discovered in Egypt with more than 300 tombs.

8. Pompey’s Pillar – Probably the only ancient monument in Alexandria that is still virtually intact. Built in the 3rd century AD, the entire 30 meter column is made from just one shaft of reddish granite. The Pillar was originally surrounded by an acropolis and sphinxes but most of that is now rubble.

9. National Museum – The museum is based in what was once a palace but that has since been restored to cater for its new purpose. There are more than 1800 pieces that tell the eventful story of Alexandria through the millennia.

10. Al-Montazah Palace – By Alexandria standards, the palace is a relatively new building. It was constructed just 100 years ago to serve as the summer home of the then king. Whereas the palace has transitioned to one of the official residences of the president, its beautiful gardens and small beach are open to the public for picnics and relaxing strolls.

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