One of the most amazing cities of the land of the Nile, Alexandria, nicknamed as the jewel of the Mediterranean, has a special magic of its own that attracts the love of many Egyptians and foreigners who spend their vacations in Egypt.
Although it doesn't hosts startling monuments like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan and it doesn't enjoy the marvels of the Red Sea like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, Alexandria offers many excitements to tourists who enjoy their holidays in Egypt.
Established in the 4th century BC by Alexander the Great during his visit to the Temple of the Oracle to gain legitimacy to rule Egypt, the city became the capital of Egypt for many centuries and an important cultural, political, and arts hub in the Middle East. Today, some travelers who tour Egypt usually spend one or two days in the jewel of the Mediterranean Sea. We would be having an insight in the most remarkable sites in Alexandria.
Qaitbey Fort
Constructed in the 15th century by the famous Mamluk Sultan and builder, Qaitbey, it became a landmark of Alexandria afterwards. Built to protect the Western section of the city against any attacks coming from the sea. It turned into a major touristic attraction that welcomes hundreds of travelers who tour Egypt.
Located in the Westernmost point of Alexandria, the fort can be seen from everywhere in the city. The most important sections of Fort Qaitbey include the oldest mosque in the city, a marvelously stone decorated Mihrab, a finely preserved building that was constructed with the remaining stones from the ancient lighthouse that was erected during the Pharaonic period.
The Roman Amphitheatre
The only one of the kind in Egypt, the Roman Amphitheatre was founded during the 4th century AD. The complex was discovered in the 20th century by coincidence when workers were trying to dig into the ground. Afterwards, it became a wonderful touristic site that welcomes many tourists who travel to Egypt.
With its U shape stage, the Roman Amphitheatre has 13 columns of marble steps that can accommodate more than 600 spectators. This distinctive complex is still used to host many artistic events and performances. Beside the theatre, there are many statues and other displays that were found in many sections around Alexandria in a wonderfully organized open-air museum.
Pompey's Pillar
Another magnificent landmark of Alexandria, Pompey's Pillar, together with the two sphinxes beside it, are the only remaining sections of a huge Roman temple that was constructed in the 3rd century BC. A visit to Pompey's Pillar is commonly included to many travel packages to Egypt.
Made out of red granite, the pillar is 27 meters high with a base that has a diameter of around 3 meters. Located in the Western section of the city, this small yet impressive complex hosts a number of travelers who visit Egypt.
Montazah Complex and Gardens
The Montazah Complex was established at the end of the 19th century by Khedive Abbas Helmi II to be the summer resort of the royal family of Egypt at the time. Many tourists who travel to Egypt explore Al Montazah Complex for its wonderful gardens and a number of wonderfully decorated historical palaces.
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