Unveiling Alexandrias Ancient Lighthouse Alexandria Library

The once-majestic Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, may have crumbled centuries ago, but its legacy lives on in the city’s rich historical and cultural tapestry. Visitors can explore the site where this iconic structure once stood, now home to the impressive Qaitbay Castle, which offers stunning vistas of the Mediterranean. Nearby, the renowned Alexandria Library, the world’s largest repository of knowledge, stands as a testament to the city’s enduring intellectual heritage. Unraveling the stories and significance of these remarkable landmarks offers a captivating glimpse into Alexandria’s illustrious past and its enduring impact on the global stage.

Key Points

• The Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was located on the Pharos island and stood as a landmark for seafarers.
• Quaitbay Castle, built in the 15th century, is situated on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline.
• The Alexandria Library, recognized as the world’s largest library, held an impressive collection of over 8 million books, manuscripts, and scrolls, representing the intellectual hub of the ancient world.
• The Library’s collections were destroyed over time, but its modern counterpart, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, was built in 1988 to revive the spirit of the ancient institution.
• The tour of Alexandria’s historical sites, including the Lighthouse and the Library, provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Alexandria’s ancient landmarks, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

At a price of $70 per person, the full-day guided tour from Cairo promises an unforgettable experience, with a duration of 12 hours.

The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, allowing for flexibility and convenience.

Highlights of the itinerary include the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the Roman Amphitheater, Pompey’s Pillar, and the iconic Alexandria Library.

With various language options available, the tour caters to the diverse needs of visitors, ensuring a truly immersive and informative exploration of this ancient city.

Itinerary Highlights

Throughout the day-long tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse array of ancient landmarks and historical sites.

Highlights of the itinerary include a visit to the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the largest Roman Cemetery with three rock-cut levels. Travelers will also discover the Roman Amphitheater and sunken monuments beneath Alexandria’s East Harbor.

Another notable stop is Pompay’s Pillar, where visitors can admire the impressive statue of Alexander the Great at the open court of the Alexandria Library, the world’s largest library with 8 million books.

The tour also features visits to the President Sadat Museum, Impressions of Alexandria Museum, and the ancient St. Mark’s Church, the oldest church in Africa.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Along With the ancient landmarks, the tour also features visits to several renowned cultural and historical sites within Alexandria.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the President Sadat Museum and the Impressions of Alexandria Museum, which provide insights into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Plus, the tour includes a stop at St. Mark’s Church, the oldest church in Africa, and the Abbo Elabbas Mosque, which is surrounded by an antique funfair, offering a unique blend of religious and cultural experiences.

Visitors can also witness the old harbor and observe the traditional fishermen and their boats along the picturesque coastline, further seeing the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

Landmarks and Attractions

Among the highlights of the tour is a visit to Quaitbay Castle, a fortification built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Plus, travelers can explore the expansive gardens of Montaza Palace, located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. On top of that, the tour offers picturesque views of the beautiful coastline and historical architecture along the Corniche, providing a visually captivating experience of Alexandria’s landmarks and attractions.

Landmark/Attraction	Location
Quaitbay Castle	Site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria
Montaza Palace Gardens	Approximately 25 km from city center
Corniche	Picturesque coastline and historical architecture
Alexandria Library	World’s largest library with 8 million books

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Tour Inclusions and Language Options

Unveiling Alexandria’s Ancient Lighthouse & Library

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, a live tour guide, and entrance fees (if selected).

Plus, the tour is available in a variety of language options, including Arabic, English, Spanish, and French, catering to the diverse needs of travelers.

This comprehensive offering ensures a seamless and enriching experience for visitors, regardless of their native tongue.

The multilingual tour guides provide in-depth commentary, allowing participants to enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of Alexandria’s ancient landmarks.

This level of accessibility and inclusivity enhances the overall tour experience, making it an attractive choice for both local and international visitors.

Unveiling the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa

Descending into the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, visitors are transported to a remarkable subterranean necropolis that served as the largest Roman cemetery in Alexandria during the 2nd century AD. Spanning three levels carved into the bedrock, this expansive underground complex showcases an intriguing blend of Greco-Roman and Egyptian architectural styles. Visitors can explore the intricate reliefs, statues, and sarcophagi that adorn the chambers, providing a glimpse into the funerary practices and beliefs of the time. The catacombs are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Alexandria, offering a captivating journey through the city’s ancient past.

Level	Depth	Highlights
Upper	10 m	Carved serpents, sphinxes, and funerary couches
Middle	15 m	Roman-style rotundas and triclinium dining halls
Lower	20 m	Largest chamber with a central pillar supporting the ceiling

Exploring the Roman Amphitheater and Sunken Monuments

After exploring the captivating Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, visitors can turn their attention to the impressive Roman Amphitheater and the sunken monuments discovered beneath Alexandria’s East Harbor.

The ancient Roman Amphitheater, with its well-preserved structures, provides a glimpse into the city’s illustrious past.

Nearby, the submerged monuments, uncovered by underwater excavations, offer a unique perspective on Alexandria’s maritime history.

These ancient ruins, once part of the city’s vibrant harbor, now lie hidden beneath the waves, captivating visitors with their enigmatic presence.

Exploring these archaeological wonders allows travelers to delve deeper into Alexandria’s rich cultural heritage and gain a greater appreciation for the city’s enduring legacy.

Discovering the Lighthouse of Alexandria and Montaza Palace

Unveiling Alexandria’s Ancient Lighthouse & Montaza Palace

Situated on the Corniche, Quaitbay Castle stands as a testament to the site of the once-mighty Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive architecture and grounds, which offer captivating views of the Mediterranean coastline.

Just a short distance away, the expansive gardens of Montaza Palace provide a serene oasis, showcasing the opulent residences and lush greenery that were once the domain of the royal family. The palace’s stately buildings and verdant landscapes offer a glimpse into Alexandria’s rich history and architectural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the city’s ancient landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit More Sites?

Absolutely, the tour can be extended to include additional cultural and historical sites in Alexandria. Customized itineraries can be arranged to accommodate your specific interests and preferences, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the city’s remarkable ancient landmarks.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious and cultural sites during the tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Photography?

The tour does not incur any additional fees for photography. Photography is generally permitted at the historical sites and attractions visited during the full-day guided tour of Alexandria’s ancient landmarks from Cairo.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate special interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the itinerary and focus on specific cultural, historical, or architectural aspects of Alexandria that are of particular interest to the traveler.

Are There Any Restrictions for Seniors or People With Disabilities?

The tour is designed to accommodate seniors and individuals with disabilities. Special assistance, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and guided tours tailored to individual needs, can be arranged upon request at the time of booking to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience.

Recap

The ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria and the renowned Alexandria Library symbolize the city’s rich intellectual heritage and historical significance.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to unveil the city’s remarkable cultural and historical sites, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Lighthouse’s remnants at Quaitbay Castle.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore Alexandria’s captivating past and its enduring legacy as a center of knowledge and cultural exchange.

You can check if your dates are available here: