Egypt Ignites Wanderlust with Alexandria the Breathtaking Mediterranean Travel Jewel Brimming with Ancient Wonders Timeless Beauty and Coastal Magic

Egypt Ignites Wanderlust with Alexandria the Breathtaking Mediterranean Travel Jewel Brimming with Ancient Wonders Timeless Beauty and Coastal Magic

Egypt’s coastal jewel Alexandria blends ancient wonders, rich history, and Mediterranean charm, making it a must-visit travel destination for culture lovers.

Cradled by the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria stands as Egypt’s largest port city on the coast—and one of its most captivating historical gems. Often overshadowed by Cairo and Luxor, this enchanting northern destination has long been dubbed the “Bride of the Mediterranean” and “Pearl of the Coast,” thanks to its dazzling waterfront charm and rich cultural tapestry.

What many travelers may not realize is that Alexandria once held the title of Egypt’s capital for nearly 1,000 years. Located roughly 220 kilometers (136 miles) northwest of Cairo, this majestic city served as the nation’s center of power from 332 BC to 642 AD—a monumental era in Egypt’s storied timeline.

Founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great, the legendary ruler of ancient Macedon, Alexandria was one of several cities named in his honor throughout his vast empire. However, this coastal jewel remains the sole surviving namesake in Egypt today. Nestled on the edge of the Nile Delta, Alexandria flourished quickly, eclipsing the city of Memphis (near present-day Cairo) as the epicenter of Hellenistic Egypt.

Its reign as the capital lasted until the Muslim conquest in 641 AD, which led to the establishment of a new capital in Fustat, a settlement that would later become part of modern-day Cairo.

In antiquity, Alexandria stood tall as a beacon of knowledge, science, and maritime might. One of its most iconic wonders was the Pharos Lighthouse, which towered over the harbor and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though it withstood centuries of storms, the lighthouse eventually crumbled due to a series of devastating earthquakes between the 10th and 14th centuries.

Equally legendary was the Great Library of Alexandria, which housed between 40,000 to 400,000 scrolls and manuscripts at its peak. This massive repository of ancient texts cemented the city’s reputation as a cradle of learning. Tragically, the library fell victim to multiple fires, most notably during Julius Caesar’s civil war, and was ultimately lost to history.

Today, that intellectual legacy lives on through the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern architectural masterpiece built near the original library site. With capacity for over eight million books, the structure features a stunning granite façade etched with characters from over 120 different writing systems—ranging from ancient alphabets to Braille and mathematical symbols.

Alexandria is also home to many ancient relics and ruins that invite exploration. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a remarkable subterranean necropolis blending Roman, Greek, and Egyptian influences, is counted among the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. Carved into the bedrock, the catacombs offer a haunting glimpse into the city’s multicultural past.

Another fascinating archaeological site is Kom El Dikka, where visitors can wander through Roman baths, mosaics, and a beautifully preserved amphitheater that once hosted dramatic performances and political gatherings during the Greco-Roman period.

Not far from the waves stands the Citadel of Qaitbay, a formidable 15th-century fortress built atop the ruins of the ancient lighthouse. Constructed from its very stones, this iconic stronghold was commissioned by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa’it Bay to ward off Ottoman naval threats and today remains a striking presence on the city’s skyline.

For a tranquil escape, head to the Montaza Palace and its sprawling gardens—a royal estate offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean and shaded pathways that feel worlds away from the bustle of urban life.

Despite its ancient pedigree, Alexandria is surprisingly accessible. Just a few hours from Cairo by train or coach, it’s perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. For travelers wanting to stay overnight, the city offers an array of upscale accommodations. The Tolip Hotel Alexandria, featuring a sea-view pool and a luxury spa, provides comfort and elegance for as little as £82 per night for two adults in April.

Flights to Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) are also convenient, with Pegasus Airlines operating routes from London Stansted via Istanbul for approximately £282, making this coastal city a surprisingly affordable addition to any Egypt itinerary.

The post Egypt Ignites Wanderlust with Alexandria the Breathtaking Mediterranean Travel Jewel Brimming with Ancient Wonders Timeless Beauty and Coastal Magic appeared first on Travel And Tour World.March 21, 2025 at 10:54PM