The second largest city in
Egypt, with a population of approximately 5 million. The city is located
200 km north of Cairo and stretches 20 km along the Mediterranean Sea in
a narrow stripe of a few kilometers.
The harbor is the most
important in Egypt, with, among other things, the export of crude oil
and cotton. The presence of natural gas in the surrounding area, and the
making of an oil pipeline from Suez, has made the city an important
industrial centre. Besides a refinery and the petrochemical industry,
the city houses iron and steel mills, car factories and a textile
industry.
Nowadays the glorious past
of the city of Alexandria Egypt is hard to spot. However a newly-opened
library which covers all sciences will hopefully re-establish the old
reputation of the city as the stronghold of wisdom.
Because of a very pleasant
climate, wonderful beaches, and hotels up to 2 million Egyptians choose
to spend their summer in the city.
If you are interested in
ancient sights, Alexandria Egypt has them too. The city used to be the
capital of the Ptolemy Pharaohs, and therefore holds a number of ancient
Greek and Roman sites.
Pompeii's Pillar so named in
the middle ages is a granite pillar, over 25 meters high, and built
amidst the ruins of the Serapuim in 297 A.D., to honor the Emperor
Diocletian.
The Roman Theatre Found at
Kom Al-Dekka, near the Graeco-Roman Museum, this attraction is
considered unique in Egypt, because it has 12 semi-circular marble tiers
and the theatre is in good condition.
The Catacombs of Kom Al-Shoqafa
This is the largest Roman cemetery in Egypt. It is built in three levels
and cut into the rock to a depth of 100 feet. Dating back to the
beginning of the 2nd century A.D., it is a blend of Pharaonic and Roman
art.
The Tombs of Al-Anfushi
These five Ptolemaic tombs from the third century B.C. were discovered
in 1901 A.D.
The Tombs of Mustafa Kamel (Rushdy)
these four subterranean rock-hewn tombs from the 2nd century B.C. are
distinguished by their bright colors and relief inscriptions that tell
of the daily activities and religious beliefs of the deceased.
Al-Shatby Necropolis Built
along the lines of old Greek houses, it comprises a doorway, corridor
and two chambers. It dates back to the 3rd century B.C., and lies north
of Saint Mark's College.