subject: Alexandria - A City With A Long And Rich History [print this page] The Egyptian city of Alexandria is one of the most ancient cities of the world. It is presently the second largest city and has the biggest port in the country. It accounts for 80% of the country's imports and exports. The city is known for many things. It was established by Alexandra the Great. It is the birthplace of Queen Cleopatra. It served as home to the Ptolemies. Another thing that the city is popular for is the lost library.
There are different methods that you can use when you want to take a tour of the city. Some of the modes you can use include bus, cub and foot. Another popular method that you should at least give a try is the antiquated trolley system. This is the oldest trolley system in Africa, having been established in the 1800s. The system uses a simple color coding that will help you to determine the right car to take.
There are many historical sites that you can visit in Alexandria. These include museums, religious sites and monuments. One of the interesting sites is the Bibliotheca Alexandria, which is a modern library erected on the same spot where the ancient library stood. The cylindrical, eleven-storey library houses more than eight million books.
Alexandria National Museum will show you the history of the city from its antiquity period to the modern era in a chronological order. Among the artifacts you will find here are ones that were recovered from the underwater archaeological exploration that was carried out in the city's harbor. At the Greco-Roman Museum, you will find many artifacts dating back to the Ptolemaic and Roman eras.
Get the opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Lighthouse of Alexandria. The lighthouse was erected during the period of Ptolemy I, who served as commander under Alexander the Great and took over the reigns after his death. According to historical records, it was commissioned in 290 BC and was constructed during the next two decades. The lighthouse operated up to the early 14th century when a major earthquake destroyed it. There are many records that describe it vividly because of the many years it took and functioned until relatively recently. While the lighthouse was destroyed, Fort of Qaietbey where it was built still inspires a lot of interest.
Other interesting historical sites include the Roman amphitheater, the kom el shokafa catacombs and Pompey's Pillar.
Alexandria is also known for its relaxing beachfront. There are both free public beaches and private ones that belong to different resorts. Some of the activities you can enjoy at the beaches include sunbathing, swimming, diving, skiing and wind surfing. In addition, you can enjoy sailing, which will give you a great opportunity to see some special sites from a distance.
At the City of Cleopatra, you will see some special sights as you explore the underwater world. Taking a dive beneath the surface here will give you the opportunity to see the floor of the ancient lighthouse, among other things.
There are also several modern features that you can enjoy in Alexandria, including beautiful gardens.
