Alexandria, Egypt, nestled along the Mediterranean coast, is a city where history and modernity blend harmoniously. With a rich history stretching back to Alexander the Great’s establishment in 331 BC, this city has long been a melting pot of cultures and civilizations. Today, Alexandria remains an enticing location for those interested in exploring its historical riches and lively culture. This blog will take you on a virtual tour of Alexandria, presenting its intriguing history, how to get there, and seven must-see tourist attractions.
A Glimpse into Alexandria’s Past
To really appreciate Alexandria, one must first learn about its past. Alexander the Great founded this city, which swiftly became an important hub for trade, culture, and science in the ancient world. The Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, led mariners safely into the bustling port. The great Library of Alexandria, an ancient center of study that drew scholars from all over the world, was also located in Alexandria. The original library no longer exists, but its history lives on, and today’s Bibliotheca Alexandrina pays homage to this old institution.
Reaching Alexandria: Getting There
Traveling to Alexandria is reasonably simple due to its well-connected transportation links. If you’re flying in from another country, the Borg El Arab International Airport is the main entry point into the city. You can also fly into Cairo International Airport and then take a train or bus to Alexandria, which takes around three hours.
Egypt’s large railway system makes it simple to travel to Alexandria from anywhere in the country. The train travel from Cairo is not only convenient, but it also provides beautiful views of the Nile Delta. Buses are another cost-effective option, with various bus companies operating between Cairo and Alexandria.
Seven Must-See Tourism Attractions
Qaitbay Citadel: Sultan Qaitbay erected this majestic castle in the 15th century on the location of the historic Pharos Lighthouse. Explore the castle’s well-preserved architecture and take in the magnificent views of the Mediterranean from the ramparts.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Visit this modern wonder of culture and learning to pay homage to the spirit of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Millions of volumes, a planetarium, and museums dedicated to Egypt’s history and heritage are housed in the library.
Montaza Palace: Visit the magnificent Montaza Palace gardens, where you can stroll through beautifully planted grounds and learn about the palace’s stunning architecture and rich history. As you explore this beachfront getaway, take in the cool sea wind.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: Dive inside these fascinating catacombs, which exhibit a unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman burial practices. Admire the ornate carvings and architectural elements.
Pompey’s Pillar: Despite its name, this massive monolith has nothing to do with Pompey the Great. Nonetheless, it is one of Alexandria’s most recognizable landmarks. This antique column, about 27 meters (88 feet) tall, is a monument to the city’s splendor.
Alexandria Corniche: Take a stroll along the beautiful Alexandria Corniche, a promenade that runs along the Mediterranean shore. Views of the sea, the city skyline, and the Stanley Bridge, which connects the city to the island of Pharos, are breathtaking.
Stanley Bridge: Cross the historic Stanley Bridge to reach Pharos, an island with a mix of modern attractions and remains of the city’s ancient heritage. This bridge is not only an engineering marvel, but it also provides an excellent vantage point for watching the sunset.
Alexandria’s Modern Charms
Alexandria has a dynamic contemporary environment in addition to its ancient sites. The bustling streets of the city are dotted with cafes, restaurants, and marketplaces where you may sample traditional Egyptian cuisine and shop for gifts. Don’t forget to sample the local seafood, which Alexandria is famous for.
Throughout the year, the city’s cultural calendar is jam-packed with events and festivals. There’s always something going on in Alexandria to spark your attention, from film festivals to music concerts and art exhibitions.
Alexandria is a city that embraces its rich heritage while also celebrating it. There’s plenty for everyone here, from ancient monuments like the Qaitbay Citadel and Pompey’s Pillar to modern sights like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Stanley Bridge. Whether you’re a history geek, a cultural buff, or just looking for a quiet beach break, Alexandria has a riveting mix of events that will leave you with lasting memories of this charming seaside city.