Visit Alexandria, Egypt

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Alexandria, Egypt is a coastal city on the Mediterranean Sea, a location which contributes to its identity as perhaps more Mediterranean than Arabic. The city was founded by Alexander the Great nearly 2,500 years ago. It was the setting for the stormy relationship between Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Alexandria was a center of learning in the ancient world but had lost its identity by the time Napoleon landed there in the very late 18th century. Since the 19th century Alexandria has reestablished itself as a major international shipping and trading center. It is the 2nd most populous city in Egypt. Visitors to Alexandria include the Library of Alexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina) on their must see lists. Erected along the shores of the Mediterranean as a tribute to the original library that at one time was the largest in the world and houses what is left of the antique volumes. The Roman Amphitheatre, once home to chariot races and gladiator fights is a popular site for tourists along with the Citadel of Qaitbey and the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. For the archeological buffs the Anfushi Tombs and the Catacombs of Kom es-Shoqafa provide opportunities to examine ancient art, graffiti and underground passageways and rooms. Visiting the Montazah Palace and its Gardens is another favorite of visitors and allows for peaceful time to be spent viewing stunning scenery and park like grounds. Alexandria has a reputation as an important tourist resort with its access to the Mediterranean Sea and the Nile River. The Alexandria Dive Center will allow for instruction on Scuba diving and then arranges incredible diving experiences for all skill levels in the sea. Nile Rivers cruises provide for opportunities to view ancient architecture and historic locales from the comfort of the decks of various types of watercraft. Alexandria is a modern city with an ancient past. Include a trip to Alexandria, Egypt on your list to fulfill your dream of exploring centuries old ruins and architecturally significant sites between trips to the beach and diving in the Mediterranean.

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