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The Legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria

Explore the legacy of the Pharos of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, now an underwater archaeological site.

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Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos, guided ships into the bustling harbor of Alexandria for centuries. Built by the Ptolemaic Kingdom in the 3rd century BC, it stood as one of the tallest man-made structures for over a thousand years before earthquakes eventually reduced it to ruins. Today, remnants of this ancient marvel lie beneath the sea, near the Citadel of Qaitbay.

A brief summary to Lighthouse of Alexandria

  • 6V7R+PG7 السيالة شرق قسم الجمرك، الإسكندرية 5321431،, Al Gomrok, As Sayalah Sharq, Alexandria Governorate, EG
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Local tips

  • Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site of the lighthouse, to see remnants of the original structure.
  • Consider a guided tour or dive to explore the underwater ruins of the lighthouse.
  • Explore the Alexandria National Museum to learn more about the history of the lighthouse and ancient Alexandria.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alexandria Corniche, walk east along the waterfront. Continue until El-Horreya Road, then turn left. Look for signs to the lighthouse area. The walk should take approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus station, take bus number 20 or 21 towards the Al Gomrok area. Get off at the stop closest to El-Horreya Road, then walk east to the lighthouse area. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute walk. A single bus fare costs approximately 5-10 EGP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Alexandria. A taxi ride from Alexandria Train Station to the lighthouse area takes about 15 minutes. Expect to pay around 30-50 EGP, depending on traffic and negotiation.

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Discover more about Lighthouse of Alexandria

Erected on the island of Pharos, the Lighthouse of Alexandria was commissioned by Ptolemy I Soter and completed during the reign of his son, Ptolemy II Philadelphus, around 280 BC. It was an essential structure for trade and travel. The lighthouse, reaching an estimated height of over 100 meters (330 feet), was constructed using limestone and granite blocks. A fire at the top, enhanced by a burnished bronze mirror, provided light that could be seen from as far as 35 to 100 miles away. For centuries, the Lighthouse of Alexandria served as a vital navigational aid and a symbol of the city's prominence. It earned its place among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World due to its impressive height, innovative design, and crucial function. The lighthouse was severely damaged by earthquakes between 956 and 1303 AD. In 1480, Sultan Qaitbay utilized the remaining stones to construct a citadel on the site. In 1994, archaeologists discovered ruins of the lighthouse on the sea floor of Alexandria's Eastern Harbour. Although the lighthouse is no longer standing, visitors can explore the Citadel of Qaitbay, which was built using some of its stones. Divers can explore the underwater ruins.

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