Step into a space where history is felt through the very stones of the architecture. In Alexandria, you can find sanctuary in the presence of local landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region's layered past.
Experience Sacred Architecture
The city offers a variety of religious sites that reflect different eras and faiths. You can visit the El-Mursi Abul-Abbas Mosque, constructed in 1775 over the tomb of a 13th-century Sufi saint, featuring a towering minaret. For those interested in early history, the Attarine Mosque stands on grounds originally used as a church dedicated to Saint Athanasius as far back as 370 AD.
Explore Ancient and Modern Heritage
Beyond religious sites, the city provides several ways to engage with its historical narrative:
- The Graeco-Roman Museum: Explore a vast collection of artifacts dating from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century CE.
- The Alexandria National Museum: View over 1,800 pieces across three floors covering Prehistoric, Pharonic, Coptic, and Islamic eras.
- The Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Visit this massive modern research center built on the site of the ancient Library of Alexandria, which includes a planetarium and an Antiquities Museum featuring items from the Pharonic to the Islamic periods.
Crafting Your Visit
To make the most of your time in Alexandria, plan your visits based on your specific interests. If you are drawn to archaeology, spend several hours moving between the Graeco-Roman Museum and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina to see a wide breadth of history. For an immersive experience in ancient structures, visit the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa to see its unique blend of pharonic, Grecian, and Roman styles, or witness the scale of the Roman amphitheatre at Kom el-Dikka.
If you have extra time after visiting the local landmarks, consider exploring other nearby sites such as the National Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, or the Royal Jewelry Museum. Begin planning your itinerary today to experience these distinct facets of Alexandria's heritage.