Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria is a coastal city with influences from Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Islamic cultures. Take a scenic drive along the Corniche waterfront to see ancient forts and beautiful beaches. Visit the intriguing 15th century Qaitbay Citadel built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
See Roman-era ruins immersed in the sea at Cleopatra’s Palace. Wander through catacombs where early Christians once buried their dead. The Alexandria National Museum houses ancient statues, mummies and treasures from ancient Egypt. Enjoy fresh seafood straight from the Mediterranean at local restaurants and cafes.
The Roman Theater of Alexandria was built between the 1st and 2nd century AD. It once held 800 spectators for performances. Some marble seats remain of this impressive ancient theater, giving a glimpse into Alexandria’s role as a center of ancient culture.
The great Alexandria Library founded in 3rd century BC was the largest library of the ancient world, attracting scholars with its over 500,000 scrolls. Though the original library no longer exists, the new Bibliotheca Alexandrina commemorates that ancient wonder by housing millions of volumes in a stunning modern building by the waterfront.
