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Kom el Dikka: Echoes of Roman Alexandria

Unearth the past at Kom el Dikka, Alexandria's ancient Roman residential quarter, featuring a Roman theatre, bathhouses, and exquisite mosaics.

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Kom el Dikka, meaning "Mound of Rubble," is a captivating archaeological site in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt. Once a bustling residential area and later a civic center during the Greco-Roman period, it offers a glimpse into the city's rich history with well-preserved ruins, including a Roman theater, bathhouses, and the famed Villa of the Birds.

A brief summary to Kom el Dikka

  • 5WV3+QVR, Ismail Mahana, Al Attarin, Kom Ad Dakah Gharb, Alexandria Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina or the Alexandria National Museum for a full historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alexandria Corniche, walk eastwards until you reach the intersection with El-Horeya Road. Continue straight on El-Horeya Road for approximately 1 kilometer until you reach the intersection with El-Mahatta Road. Turn right onto El-Mahatta Road and continue walking for about 500 meters. Then, turn left onto Ismail Mahana Street; Kom el Dikka will be on your left after a short walk.

  • Public Transport

    From the Alexandria Corniche, head to the nearest microbus station. Look for a microbus heading towards 'Moharam Bek' or 'El Attarin'. Ask the driver to drop you off at the 'Kom el Dikka' stop. After getting off, walk a short distance down Ismail Mahana Street, and you will find Kom el Dikka on your left. Alternatively, find the nearest bus stop along the Corniche and board a bus that goes to the 'Attarin' area. Get off and head south on Ismail Mahana Street for about a 10-minute walk to reach Kom el Dikka. A single bus or microbus fare typically costs around EGP 2-5.

  • Taxi

    Use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Careem. Enter 'Kom el Dikka' as your destination. The driver will navigate you to the site. A short taxi ride from the Alexandria Corniche or a major landmark like Bibliotheca Alexandrina typically costs between EGP 20-40, depending on traffic and distance.

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Discover more about Kom el Dikka

Kom el Dikka transports visitors back to Roman Alexandria, revealing the layers of history beneath the modern city. Discovered in the 1960s, this archaeological site was once a thriving residential neighborhood that evolved into a major civic center. The name Kom el Dikka, meaning "Mound of Rubble," reflects its humble beginnings before excavations unveiled its treasures. The centerpiece of the site is the well-preserved Roman theater, the only one of its kind in Egypt. With its thirteen rows of white marble terraces, the theater once hosted concerts, lectures, and public gatherings, offering a glimpse into the entertainment and civic life of ancient Alexandrians. Nearby, the remains of Roman bathhouses reveal the social customs and advanced engineering of the era. Explore the Villa of the Birds, an urban palace adorned with intricate mosaic floors dating back to the reign of Hadrian. These remarkably preserved mosaics depict various birds, including pigeons, peacocks, and parrots, offering a vibrant snapshot of Roman artistry. The ongoing excavations at Kom el Dikka continue to unearth more secrets of Alexandria's past, making it a dynamic and evolving archaeological site. Kom el Dikka provides a serene escape from the bustling city, inviting visitors to wander through ancient streets, admire intricate mosaics, and imagine life in Roman Egypt.

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