Alexandria: A Mediterranean Gem

Alexandria is a city located in the northern region of Egypt, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is the second-largest city in the country after Cairo and serves as an important economic, cultural, and political center. The city was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and served as the capital of Egypt during the Hellenistic period. It has a rich history and is known for its ancient monuments and landmarks.

Short History

Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, who named the city after himself. Alexandria was once an important center of the ancient world, known for its great library, the Pharos lighthouse, and its cosmopolitan culture that drew people from all over the world. The city has seen many changes and has been ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Ptolemies, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Arabs, and the Ottomans. Today, Alexandria is a bustling city known for its historic landmarks, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful beaches.

Architecture

Alexandria is a city with a rich architectural heritage, reflecting the influence of its diverse history and the convergence of various cultures. The city has been home to a variety of architectural styles, including ancient Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Islamic, and European.

Some of the most notable examples of ancient Egyptian architecture in Alexandria include the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Serapeum, a temple dedicated to the god Serapis.

The Greco-Roman period left a lasting impact on Alexandria’s architecture, with many surviving examples, including the Pompey’s Pillar, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a necropolis featuring a mix of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman elements.

Islamic architecture in Alexandria is represented by structures like the Qaitbay Citadel, which was built in the 15th century on the site of the ancient Pharos lighthouse, and the Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, which dates back to the 18th century.

Finally, European-style architecture can be seen in buildings like the Montaza Palace, a palace complex built in the early 20th century during the reign of King Fuad I, and the Alexandria Opera House, a stunning neoclassical building completed in 1921.

Overall, Alexandria’s architecture is a testament to the city’s rich and diverse history, and the many different cultural influences that have shaped it over the centuries.

Museums and Galleries

Here are some of the most interesting museums and galleries to visit in Alexandria:

Alexandria National Museum – this museum houses a collection of artifacts that chronicle the history of Alexandria from Pharaonic times to the modern era.
Cavafy Museum – this museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Greek poet, Constantine Cavafy, who lived in Alexandria for most of his life.
Museum of Fine Arts – this museum features a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from Egyptian and foreign artists.
Royal Jewelry Museum – this museum houses a collection of jewelry that once belonged to the royal family of Egypt.
Mahmoud Said Museum – this museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Egyptian painter Mahmoud Said, who is known for his unique style that blended traditional Egyptian and European art.
Graeco-Roman Museum – this museum showcases artifacts from the Graeco-Roman period in Egypt, including statues, mosaics, and pottery.
Alexandria Contemporary Arts Forum – this gallery features contemporary art exhibitions, installations, and performances from Egyptian and international artists.
Mohamed Nagy Museum – this museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Egyptian artist Mohamed Nagy, who is known for his portraits and landscapes.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina – this modern library is a cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout the year.
Alexandria Opera House – this historic building features stunning architecture and hosts performances by local and international musicians and artists.

These are just a few of the many museums and galleries that Alexandria has to offer.

Landmarks and Monuments

Here are some of the most interesting landmarks and monuments to visit in Alexandria:

Citadel of Qaitbay: A 15th-century fortress located on the Mediterranean Sea, built by the Mamluk Sultan Qaitbay.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A modern library and cultural center that was built to commemorate the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world.
Pompey’s Pillar: A Roman triumphal column that stands at over 20 meters tall and is made of a single block of red granite.
Montaza Palace: A palace complex built in the early 20th century that served as a summer residence for the Egyptian royal family.
Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque: A 13th-century mosque located in the heart of Alexandria, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate details.
Alexandria National Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Alexandria and Egypt, featuring artifacts and exhibits from the Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, and Islamic eras.
Roman Amphitheater: A well-preserved Roman theater that was used for gladiator fights and other public events during the Roman era.
El-Shatby Necropolis: An ancient cemetery that dates back to the Greco-Roman period and is home to a number of well-preserved tombs and mausoleums.
El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque: A 19th-century mosque located in the heart of Alexandria, featuring stunning Ottoman-era architecture and intricate tilework.
Anfushi Tombs: A collection of tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, located in the Anfushi neighborhood of Alexandria.

These landmarks and monuments showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of Alexandria, from ancient times to the modern era. Visitors can explore the city’s ancient past, admire its stunning architecture, and immerse themselves in its vibrant culture.

Parks and Green Spaces

Alexandria has several parks and green spaces worth visiting. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Montazah Palace Gardens: These gardens were once the private gardens of the Khedive Abbas II, and they are now open to the public. They feature beautiful landscapes, fountains, and walking paths.
Antoniades Garden: This garden is located in the heart of Alexandria, and it is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city. It features a variety of plants and trees, as well as benches and paths for walking.
Shallalat Gardens: These gardens are located in the Shallalat district of Alexandria, and they feature a large lake, walking paths, and a variety of trees and plants.
Al-Montaza Park: This park is located on the eastern side of Alexandria, and it features a large lake, a beach, a playground, and picnic areas.
Al-Anfushi Garden: This garden is located in the Al-Anfushi district of Alexandria, and it features a large open space, trees, and walking paths.
Al-Gabal Garden: This garden is located in the Al-Gabal district of Alexandria, and it features a large open space, trees, and walking paths.
Attarine Park: This park is located in the Attarine district of Alexandria, and it features a large open space, a playground, and walking paths.
Al-Azhar Park: This park is located in the Al-Azhar district of Alexandria, and it features a large open space, a playground, and walking paths.
Al-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque Garden: This garden is located next to the Al-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque in Alexandria, and it features a large open space, trees, and walking paths.
Alexandria Aquarium Garden: This garden is located next to the Alexandria Aquarium, and it features a large open space, trees, and walking paths.

Shopping Districts

Alexandria has several shopping districts, ranging from traditional bazaars to modern malls. Here are some of the most notable shopping areas in the city:

San Stefano Grand Plaza: This is one of the largest malls in Alexandria and offers a wide range of high-end fashion, jewelry, and home décor shops, as well as a cinema, a kids’ play area, and several restaurants and cafes.
Souk El Attarine: Located in the heart of the city’s historic center, this traditional bazaar is famous for its spices, perfumes, textiles, and handicrafts. It is a great place to explore the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.
City Center Alexandria: This is another popular mall in the city, known for its extensive selection of international and local brands, as well as its cinema, food court, and play area.
Abu Qir Street: This street is lined with small shops selling everything from clothes and shoes to electronics and household items. It is a great place to find bargains and deals.
El Raml Station: This is a lively area in the heart of the city, with a variety of shops selling clothes, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices. It is also a popular spot for street food, cafes, and people-watching.
Stanley Bridge: This is a popular tourist spot, famous for its picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Stanley Bay lighthouse. It is also a great place for shopping, with several small boutiques and souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and art.
Alexandria City Center: This is a large mall with a variety of shops selling clothes, accessories, electronics, and other goods. It also has several restaurants, a cinema, and a kids’ play area.

Food and Drink

Alexandria has a rich culinary heritage that reflects the city’s history and cultural diversity. Here are some dishes and drinks to try when visiting Alexandria:

Foul medames: A popular Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice.
Koshary: A delicious and filling vegetarian dish made from rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with tomato sauce, caramelized onions, and spicy chilies.
Seafood: As a coastal city, Alexandria is famous for its fresh seafood, including grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari.
Hawawshi: A popular street food made with pita bread stuffed with minced meat, onions, and spices.
Halawa: A sweet treat made from sesame seeds that is often served with bread or fruit.
Mint tea: A refreshing drink made with fresh mint leaves and sugar.
Arabic coffee: A strong, flavorful coffee served in small cups with or without sugar.
Juices: Alexandria has an abundance of fresh fruits, so be sure to try some of the local fruit juices, such as mango, guava, and strawberry.
Sahlab: A thick, creamy drink made from orchid root powder, milk, and sugar, often served with cinnamon and nuts.
Beer: Egypt has a growing craft beer scene, so consider trying some of the locally brewed beers like the Alexandria-based Bräuhaus Brewery.

Transportation

Alexandria has a variety of transportation options available for visitors to move around the city. Here are some of the best ways to move around Alexandria:

Taxis: Taxis are the most convenient way to get around the city, and they can be found throughout Alexandria. It is recommended to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Buses: There are several bus routes that connect different areas of Alexandria, and the fares are affordable. However, the buses can be crowded during peak hours.
Tram: The Alexandria tram network is the oldest in Africa and the Middle East and covers the main streets of the city. The fare is also affordable.
Metro: The Alexandria metro is a rapid transit system that connects the city’s eastern and western parts. It is a good option for traveling long distances quickly.
Car rental: Car rentals are available throughout the city, but driving in Alexandria can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets.
Bicycle: Some areas of the city, such as the Corniche, are ideal for cycling. Bicycles can be rented at some hotels and shops.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, but it can be challenging during the hot summer months.

City Safety

Alexandria, like many other cities around the world, has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, the city is generally considered to be safe for tourists, and the crime rate is not particularly high. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding unlit areas at night, and not flashing valuable items in public. It is also advisable to take care when using public transportation, such as buses and taxis, and to be cautious of pickpockets and scams.

Expensive or Cheap

Alexandria is generally considered to be an affordable city to visit. However, the cost of travel and accommodation can vary depending on the season, location, and type of accommodations. In general, hotels and restaurants in the city center can be more expensive than those in outlying areas. Additionally, prices for tourist activities and souvenirs can also vary. It is recommended that visitors research prices and plan accordingly to ensure a budget-friendly trip to Alexandria.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to travel to Alexandria largely depends on personal preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each season:

High season (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Alexandria, with warm weather and plenty of events and festivals. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and prices for accommodation and activities tend to be higher.
Shoulder season (April to May, September to November): This is a good time to visit Alexandria if you want to avoid the crowds of high season but still enjoy relatively good weather. Temperatures are typically mild, and there may be occasional rain showers.
Low season (December to March): This is the low season in Alexandria, with fewer tourists and lower prices on accommodation and activities. However, temperatures can be quite cool, and some outdoor attractions and restaurants may be closed.

Overall, the best time to travel to Alexandria largely depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. If you want to enjoy warm weather and plenty of events and festivals, high season is the best time to visit, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, low season may be a good option, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and fewer open attractions. Shoulder season may offer a good balance between good weather and lower prices/crowds.

Date Ideas

Alexandria offers a wide range of activities for couples to enjoy on a romantic date. Here are some date ideas in Alexandria:

Walk along the Corniche: The Alexandria Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, stop for a coffee or a fresh juice at one of the many cafes, or even rent a bicycle to explore the area.
Visit the Alexandria Opera House: The Alexandria Opera House is a historic building that was originally built in the early 20th century. Today, it hosts a variety of performances, including ballet, opera, and classical music concerts. It is a great place to enjoy a cultural experience with your partner.
Explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina: The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern library that was built to commemorate the ancient Library of Alexandria. It houses a variety of books, manuscripts, and artifacts from ancient and modern times. It also hosts regular cultural events and exhibitions.
Take a romantic cruise: You can take a romantic sunset cruise along the Mediterranean Sea, which offers beautiful views of the city skyline. Some cruises also offer dinner and live music on board.
Visit the Montazah Palace Gardens: The Montazah Palace Gardens is a beautiful park that is located on the eastern edge of Alexandria. It offers beautiful views of the sea and is a great place for a romantic picnic or a walk.
Try local cuisine: Alexandria is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including grilled fish and prawns. You can find many restaurants that serve fresh seafood in the city, as well as traditional Egyptian dishes such as koshari and ful medames.
Visit the Alexandria National Museum: The Alexandria National Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Alexandria. It houses a variety of artifacts, including ancient coins, statues, and pottery.

These are just a few date ideas in Alexandria. With its rich history and vibrant culture, there is plenty to see and do in this beautiful city.

Fun and Interesting Facts

Here are some fun and interesting facts about Alexandria:

Founded by Alexander the Great: The city was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and named after him.
The Library of Alexandria: The Library of Alexandria was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world, with a collection of up to 700,000 books.
Cleopatra: Alexandria was the capital of Egypt during the time of Cleopatra. She was the last Pharaoh of Egypt and her rule marked the end of the Pharaonic era in Egypt.
The Pharos Lighthouse: The Pharos Lighthouse was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and was located in Alexandria.
Greek, Roman and Egyptian influences: Alexandria has been influenced by Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures throughout its history, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles and cultural traditions.
The Corniche: The Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade in Alexandria, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The catacombs: The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are a series of tombs and burial chambers dating back to the 2nd century AD. They are a testament to the multicultural nature of Alexandria, with features influenced by both Greek and Egyptian styles.
Film industry: Alexandria has been home to the Egyptian film industry since its inception in the early 20th century, with many famous actors and actresses originating from the city.
Cuisine: Alexandria’s cuisine is influenced by its Mediterranean location, with seafood being a prominent feature in many dishes.

Overall, Alexandria is a city with a rich and diverse history, a unique blend of cultures and architectural styles, and plenty of interesting landmarks and attractions to explore.