State · Egypt

Al Iskandariyah

Al Iskandarīyah, Egypt

Dive into the Mediterranean's Jewel: Alexandria, Egypt Alexandria, the "Pearl of the Mediterranean", beckons travelers with its vibrant tapestry of…

#Coastal city#Historic landmarks#Cultural hub#Mediterranean Sea#Alexandria Library

Overview Cities Videos Practical Guide

Explore Al Iskandariyah

Top cities in Al Iskandariyah

Pick a city to open its guide.

See it for yourself

Location videos

Reels and longer watches.

Featured for Al Iskandariyah

Traveller clips picked out for this place.

Watch & explore

Good to know

Practical info

Weather, costs and getting around.

Al Iskandarīyah, Egypt Open in Google Maps

Currency

E£ | EGP | Egyptian Pound

Population

Information not available.

Languages

Arabic mainly

Budget / day

£100 - £300

Also known as

Iskandariyah, Ra-qet, Rakotə, Alex, Alexandria

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on Al Iskandariyah.

What people love

Al Iskandarīyah, commonly known as Alexandria, is a vibrant city located on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Alexandria:

Rich History: Alexandria is a city with a long and fascinating history. It was founded by Alexander the Great and was once home to the famous Library of Alexandria, one of the most significant libraries of the ancient world.
Cultural Attractions: The city is dotted with historical sites and cultural attractions, such as the Citadel of Qaitbay, Pompey's Pillar, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. These landmarks offer insights into the city's diverse heritage.
Beautiful Beaches: Alexandria boasts stunning beaches along its Mediterranean coastline. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and diving.
Culinary Delights: The city is renowned for its delicious cuisine, featuring a blend of traditional Egyptian dishes and Mediterranean flavors. Seafood is particularly popular in Alexandria due to its coastal location.
Cosmopolitan Atmosphere: Alexandria is a cosmopolitan city with a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore bustling markets, trendy cafes, and vibrant neighborhoods, experiencing the local way of life.
Mild Climate: The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. This makes it an attractive destination year-round for those looking to escape harsher weather conditions.
Easy Access to Cairo: Alexandria is located relatively close to the Egyptian capital, Cairo, making it convenient for travelers to explore both cities during their visit. The journey between the two cities can be done by road or rail.

Overall, Alexandria offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for travelers interested in exploring Egypt beyond its more famous attractions.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Al Iskandarīyah, Egypt, include:

Safety concerns: Like many cities in Egypt, Al Iskandarīyah has experienced political unrest and security issues in the past. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation and exercise caution, particularly in crowded or tourist areas.
Traffic congestion: Al Iskandarīyah is known for its heavy traffic, which can make getting around the city challenging and time-consuming. This can be frustrating for travelers trying to navigate the city's attractions and landmarks.
Language barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, travelers may encounter difficulties communicating with locals in Al Iskandarīyah, as Arabic is the primary language. Having a basic understanding of Arabic or using a translation app may be helpful.
Limited tourist infrastructure: Compared to popular tourist destinations like Cairo or Luxor, Al Iskandarīyah may have fewer amenities and services catering to international visitors. Travelers should be prepared for potential limitations in terms of accommodations, transportation, and tourist facilities.
Cultural differences: Egypt has a conservative culture, and travelers to Al Iskandarīyah should respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities while exploring the city.

It's important to note that these cons are general considerations and may not apply to all travelers. It's always advisable to research the current situation, consult travel advisories, and take necessary precautions before visiting Al Iskandarīyah.

Al Iskandarīyah, more commonly known as Alexandria, is a city in Egypt with a rich and diverse history. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, it quickly became one of the most important cultural and intellectual centers of the ancient world.

Founding and Ancient History

331 BC: Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great. It was intended to be a link between Greece and the rich Nile Valley.
Ptolemaic Dynasty: After Alexander's death, his general Ptolemy took control of Egypt and established the Ptolemaic Dynasty. Alexandria became the capital of Egypt under Ptolemy.
Library of Alexandria: The city was home to the Great Library of Alexandria, one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. It attracted scholars from all around the Mediterranean and was a major center of learning.
Lighthouse of Alexandria: Also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It served as a prototype for all subsequent lighthouses.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

30 BC: With the defeat of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire. Alexandria remained an important city.
Christianity: Alexandria was a center of early Christianity. It was a site of theological scholarship and debates, most notably the Arian controversy in the 4th century.
Coptic Christianity: The city is significant for the development of Coptic Christianity, and the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria is one of the oldest Christian denominations.

Islamic Era

642 AD: Alexandria was conquered by Muslim Arab forces under the command of Amr ibn al-As. It eventually lost its status as Egypt's capital, which moved to Fustat (now part of Cairo).

Medieval and Modern Periods

Ottoman Period: Alexandria was part of the Ottoman Empire from 1517 until the early 19th century. It was less prominent compared to its ancient status, but it remained a key port.
19th Century: The city experienced a revival under Muhammad Ali Pasha, who modernized Egypt. The construction of the Mahmoudiyah Canal revitalized Alexandria's commercial significance.
Suez Canal: Although not directly located in Alexandria, the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 increased its importance as a port city.
20th Century: Alexandria played a role during both World Wars as a strategic naval base. It also became a multicultural hub with significant Greek, Italian, and Jewish communities.

Important Landmarks

Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Opened in 2002, this modern library commemorates the ancient Library of Alexandria. It serves as a cultural and scientific center.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: A historical archaeological site, blending Roman, Greek, and Egyptian cultural elements.
Qaitbay Citadel: Built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this 15th-century fortress is a significant tourist attraction.
Montaza Palace: A historic palace and gardens, originally built by Khedive Abbas II, is a symbol of Alexandria's modern history.

Alexandria remains a vibrant city, blending its rich historical legacy with modern developments. It continues to be a critical cultural and economic hub in Egypt.