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Villa of the Birds: A Mosaic Masterpiece

Discover exquisite Roman mosaics at the Villa of the Birds in Alexandria's Kom el-Dikka, a captivating glimpse into ancient artistry and culture.

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The Villa of the Birds, located within Alexandria's Kom el-Dikka archaeological park, is a Roman villa dating back to the early Roman period. Unearthed in 1998, it's famed for its well-preserved mosaic floors, particularly those depicting various bird species. These mosaics offer a glimpse into the artistry and daily life of Roman Alexandria.

A brief summary to Villa of the birds

  • 54 شارع صفية زغلول،, Al Attarin, Al Mesallah Sharq, Alexandria Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking around an archaeological site with uneven surfaces.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Roman Theatre and other Kom el-Dikka attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From El-Mansheya, head east on Safiya Zaghloul Street. Walk straight for approximately 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with El-Nasr Street. Continue straight on Safiya Zaghloul Street for another 5 minutes. The Villa of the Birds will be on your right at 54 Safiya Zaghloul Street. There are no tolls or specific access fees for walking.

  • Public Transport

    From El-Mansheya, find the nearest tram station. Take a tram towards Al Attarin; a ticket costs around 3 EGP. Get off at the Al Attarin stop, then walk east on Safiya Zaghloul Street for about 7 minutes to reach the Villa of the Birds at 54 Safiya Zaghloul Street.

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Discover more about Villa of the birds

The Villa of the Birds, situated in Alexandria's Kom el-Dikka, is a captivating window into Roman Egypt. Discovered in 1998 by an Egyptian-Polish archaeological mission, the villa dates back to the 1st-3rd centuries AD, during the early Roman period. The site is part of an archaeological park that spans nearly 40,000 square meters, revealing a residential district from that era. The villa derives its name from the exceptional mosaic pavements that adorn its floors. These mosaics showcase a variety of recognizable birds, including pigeons, peacocks, parrots, quails, and water hens. The intricate designs are crafted from tiny cubes of marble, glass paste, and stone, demonstrating the remarkable skill of ancient artisans. One particularly notable mosaic features a panther with the horns of a defeated prey. These mosaics, covering 110 square meters, are among the few figural mosaics from Alexandria's Roman period to survive. Excavations suggest the villa was once part of a larger complex, potentially belonging to one of Alexandria's elite. Evidence indicates the villa was destroyed by fire in the late 3rd century AD, but the mosaics remained relatively well-preserved. Today, visitors can explore the villa via an elevated walkway, with information panels explaining the significance of the mosaics and the ongoing archaeological work at the site. The villa is located near other significant Roman ruins, including a Roman theater and bath complex, offering a comprehensive view of Roman life in Alexandria.

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