Top 5 Things to Do in Alexandria
Alexandria is a historical and cultural city located along the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, boasting a rich heritage and fascinating landscapes. As such, it is one of the best locations for a wide range of activities from locals and visitors alike. Whether an ancient ruin or some taste of local cuisine, this city has given something for everyone. Here are the top five things not to miss when visiting Alexandria.
1. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina
In the heart of Alexandria is one of its most important cultural icons: the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. This library is the renewed resemblance of the ancient library that was famous in the ancient world and claimed to be the largest library in the past.
What to Expect:
Stunning Architecture: The library has a beautiful design. Its massive, sloping roof is like a sun over the sea. The exterior was made of grey Aswan granite, giving it an impressive look. More than 120 inscriptions were also displayed in many languages, representing the city's history as multicultural.
Exhibitions and Galleries: It contains several exhibitions of ancient manuscripts, artifacts, and art of different cultures. Several museums exist inside the library, like the Museum of Innovation and the Antiquities Museum. Each one of them offers something different for history and culture.
Reading and Research facilities: Diverse collections of books, and other resources exist in the library. It is the perfect place where you can read or study. There are many quiet spots to get lost in books or do research. Computer labs and academic pursuit spaces are also present.
Lectures, film nights, and cultural performances are on the agenda at Bibliotheca Alexandrina. It is a good occasion for acquaintance with local scientists and artists, just to make the picture of the cultural situation at Alexandria clearer.
Tips:
Admission fees are mostly free, however, it is always useful to visit the official website of the library to learn about events or exhibitions requiring special tickets in advance.
On the rooftop café of the library, enjoy scrumptious panoramic views of the Mediterranean over refreshing cool drinks.
2. Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is one of the most famous historical archaeological sites in Alexandria. They belong to the 2nd century AD and reflect a unique blend of influences from Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
What to Expect:
Underground Tombs: Catacombs This is a series of underground burial chambers. Many of the places in the catacombs are carvings and sculptures - give some idea of the artistic styles then prevailing. To be particularly noted is the triclinium where families held banquets to make merry in honor of the deceased.
Unique Architectural Features: Visitors will gape at the confluence of architectural styles with a predominance of Greco-Roman flavors and a delicate sprinkling of Indigenous Egyptian motifs. Dwell on the exquisitely decorated sarcophagi and the reliefs delineating scenes from both mythology and everyday life.
Historical Importance: This site was accidentally unearthed in 1900 when an ass fell into a hole in the complex. It has since then become an excellent resource for ancient burial practices and belief systems regarding life after death.
Tips:
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Wear comfortable shoes since some portions of the floors are uneven and some areas will be quite dark.
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You can even plan an organized guided tour for the deeper meaning behind the history and importance of these catacombs.
3. Take a Walk Along the Corniche
The Corniche is an amiable waterfront promenade that stretches along the Mediterranean Sea. It's a lively place, perfect for a nice walk while enjoying both seaside and city views.
What to Expect:
Scenic views: The Corniche offers beautiful sea views of the Mediterranean and the skyline of Alexandria. You will find people locals to tourists enjoying the fresh sea breeze; it's one of those places that allows you to relax.
Cafés and Restaurants: Cafés and restaurants make up most of the promenade. Those offer various local and international menus. Fresh seafood, among other dishes, is a must in the gastronomic repertoire of Alexandria. Traditional Egyptian ones such as kosher or falafel must be tried, too.
People Watching: It's so lively along the Corniche. You could see families having picnics, and street artists performing to entertain passers-by. The place just gets busy, especially in the evening.
Tips:
4. Explore Fort Qaitbey
Fort Qaitbey is an ancient fortress at the entrance of Alexandria's harbor. It was constructed in the 15th century over the remains of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
What to expect:
Historical Importance: This fort was designed to protect from naval attacks against the city. Striding along its walls will be able to give you a view of Alexandria's military past and what it has been through, centuries on.
Walking around: Visitors can roam throughout the fort and explore all the towers and the walls. At the top, the views are breathtakingly panoramic, with an ideal view of the harbor and the cityscape.
Shows within the Fort: In Fort Qaitbey, small exhibits are showing the history and the importance of the lighthouse that has once been. You can get to know about the different restoration work that has been done.
Tips:
5. Visit the Alexandria National Museum
A place that should appear on every history buff's itinerary is the Alexandria National Museum, situated in a sumptuous 19th-century palace and housing collections representing the history and culture of Alexandria.
Collections:
It contains collections from all different eras, among them, Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic collections that together represent a fascinating insight into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city of Alexandria over time.
Hands-on Displays: Most of the displays are hands-on, thus making it to be quite interesting to visitors of all ages. One would learn the history concerning Alexandria through videos, photographs, and detailed descriptions to have a pan-around understanding of how things were really in that city.
Guided Tours: There are knowledgeable guides available to explain what is on display or to address any question or concern. A guided tour could make a real difference to your experience as you will then understand the history surrounding the artifacts that are in view.
Tips:
Conclusion
It's a city that combines in quite an elegance the beauty of its history with the charm of modern life, where you will be struck by the grandiosity of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, just as much as by the peaceful atmosphere of the Corniche. Every activity allows you to catch a glimpse of what makes this city special-from its ancient catacombs to fresh seafood, sunbathing by the sea, or any other reason you find to visit.
Do try out the vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful scenery of the city to make some vivid memories that you will carry for a lifetime from this incredible city. Plan your visit now and get drenched in the beauty and the history of Alexandria!
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