What to See in Alexandria
Touristic Attractions
The Graeco-Roman Museum
Houses many collections of rare Greek and Roman relics and coins - about 40 thousand pieces, from the Third Century B.C. to the Seventh Century AD, including the "Tanagra" collection. The museum also houses the pieces recovered in 1995 at the Lighthouse site.
Pompey's Pillar
Mistakenly named so in the Middle Ages, this granite pillar is over 25 meters high. Built amidst the ruins of the Serapium in AD 297 AD in honor of Emperor Diocletian, it is the most prominent remaining Greek landmark in Alexandria.
The Roman Amphitheatre
Located downtown at Kom al-Dikkah the Roman amphitheatre is considered unique in Egypt. Discovered only in the early 1960's while laying the foundation of a new building, the amphitheatre has twelve semi-circular marble tiers in remarkably good condition.
The Catacombs of Kom al-Shoqafa
This is the largest Roman cemetery in Alexandria. It is composed of three levels cut 30 meters deep into the existing rock. Dating to the beginning of the Second Century AD, it is a blend of Pharaonic and Roman art.
Al-Shatby Necropolis
Constructed along the lines of the old Greek houses, the necropolis includes a doorway, corridor, and two chambers. It dates back to the Third Century BC, and lies north of Collège St. Marc.
The Tombs of Al-Anfushi
These five Ptolemic tombs, from the early Third Century BC, were only discovered in AD 1901. They were cut into the existing rock and belong to Greek-Egyptians.
The Tombs of Mustafa Kamel (Rushdy)
These four subterranean rock-hewn tombs, date back to the Second Century BC. Influenced by Ancient Egyptian style, they are distinguished by their bright colors and relief inscriptions that describe the daily activities and religious beliefs of the deceased.
The Fort of Qaitbay
Erected on the northern tip of the Eastern Port on the site of the ancient Pharos of Alexandria, the fort design is influenced by both medieval architecture as well as by the lighthouse original layout. The fort also houses the Naval Museum.
The Mosque of Mursi Abul Abbas
Situated in Al-Anfushi, this Andalusian-style mosque is the largest in the city. It has four domes and a minaret, and was re-built in the twentieth century at the site of the old Abul Abbas shrine.
Al-Montazah Palace
Built on a low plateau east of Alexandria and overlooking a beautiful beach amid about 370 feddans of gardens and woods, the palace comprises a number of buildings, the most important being Al-Haramlek and Al-Salamlek, the summer residence of the former royal family.
The Beaches
There are many sandy beaches stretching from east to west: Maamura - Montaza - Assafra - Miamy - Sidi Bishr - San Stefano - Glym - Stanley - Rushdy - Sidi Gaber - Sporting - Ibrahimia - and Shatby; all of which lie along the seafront boulevard, the "Corniche". On the western perimeter lie Al-Bitash and Hanoville beaches.
Abu-Qir Suburb
One of the calmest beaches, famous for fishing and seafood restaurants. This area, historically known as "Canopus" contains several Greek and Roman monuments. It is the site of the Abu-Qir battle between Napoleon and the British Commander, Nelson.
Al-Alamein
Site of the famous WWII Alamein battle, this beach also houses a WWII military museum.
Museums
The Royal Jewellery Museum
Originally the Palace of Princess Fatma al-Zahraa in Zizinia, it is an architectural masterpiece. Its many rooms and halls contain rare paintings, statues and decorations, as well as a priceless collection of jewels of the Mohamed Ali dynasty.
The Museum of Fine Arts
Houses collections of sculptures, paintings, and architectural works. Exhibitions by contemporary artists are often held there. Furthermore, the museum organizes the Alexandria Biennial, where art from Mediterranean countries is displayed.
The Hydrobiological Institute and Museum
Located at Al-Anfushi, near Qaitbay Fortress, the museum houses a rare collection of fish and marine life.
Other Attractions
The Montazah Palace Gardens
These gardens cover an area of 370 feddans and contain trees, palms, and flowers. The area also includes a museum, several natural bays and beaches, a tourist center, a hotel, restaurants, bungalows, and a children's park.
The Antoniadis Gardens and the Zoo
The Gardens contain beautifully arranged trees and flowers, a botanical garden, as well as several Greek statues in marble. The Antoniadis Palace is located in the middle of the gardens. The zoo is the second largest in Egypt.
The Shallalat Gardens
A central park east of downtown, it is of special character, distinguished by its high and low levels and waterways. The gardens also house parts of the ancient (Arab) city walls.
The Alexandria university Conference Center
The Alexandria Cultural Center, in Al-Silsilah, over 42,000 sq. meters in area, comprises a conference center, the Biblioteca Alexandrina (under construction), an open courtyard, and a garage.
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