Egypt’s second-largest city, known as the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’, has been a gateway to the world for millennia. Though nearly all of its former glory has long since disappeared, Alexandria remains an exotic and alluring destination for many seasoned travelers. With a little imagination, you can envision the original form of this historically vital city through the fragments that are left today.
The oldest remaining part of Alexandria sits along the causeway linking Pharos Island to the mainland, forming a T-shape with the Western Harbor and Eastern Harbor on either side. This is commonly known as the Turkish quarter, and is home to some of the city’s most intriguing historical sites. As you move away from the sea into modern Alexandria, an ancient street named Al-Horreya runs east to west across the urban core. Everything branches off this long avenue, such as the Greek quarter and Bab Rosseta district.
The lively Corniche avenue follows the coast and is lined with casinos and hotels. Mahmudiya Canal cuts across the city, leading to working-class residential and industrial areas; yet even this district is awash in long lost history. Just along the Corniche lies El-Muntaza, where some of the finest hotels in Alexandria are located. Legendary sites can be found everywhere, though most are camouflaged within the drab modern face of this forgotten city. ****
Highlights
Anfushi Tombs: dating back to 250 BC, these limestone tombs are covered with scenes of the gods, Egyptian daily life and even graffiti from the period. ****
Catacombs of Kom al-Shoqafa: the largest Roman cemetery in Alexandria cuts 30m into the earth and dates back to the 2nd century AD, showing how powerful the Roman presence was at its height.
Fort Qaitbey: sitting on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, this impressive fortress is as romantic as it gets, with the bonus of amazing views of Alexandria and over the Mediterranean. ****
Graeco-Roman Museum: this comprehensive museum traces the presence and influence of the Greek and Romans on the city through its massive collection of coins and artifacts.
Lake Mariut: forming the southern border of the city, this timeless lake is buzzing with local fishermen in their traditional boats.
Abu El-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque: Alexandria’s largest mosque is also one of the most important sites in the Islamic world, providing a rare glimpse into this essential aspect of the city’s culture.
Museum of Fine Arts: a wonderful collection of ancient and contemporary paintings and sculptures by Egyptian artists is displayed here.