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The Site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria

Explore the historical site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, now an underwater archaeological site.

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Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Lighthouse of Alexandria guided ships into the bustling harbor for centuries. Though destroyed by earthquakes, its ruins remain a captivating underwater archaeological site 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 ancient lighthouse, for panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Consider a guided dive to explore the submerged ruins of the lighthouse (through specialized companies), weather permitting.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Citadel and exploring the harbor area.
  • Visit in the summer or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From most points along the Corniche in Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay (where the lighthouse once stood) is easily accessible by walking. Head towards the western end of the Corniche, keeping the sea on your right. The Citadel will become visible as you approach the harbor. Walking from the city center (e.g., Midan Saad Zaghloul) takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Trams and buses connect various parts of Alexandria to the area near the Citadel. Take a tram to the Ras el-Tin station, which is a short walk from the Citadel. Alternatively, several bus lines run along the Corniche; ask for a stop near the Citadel. Tram fares are very affordable, typically 1-5 EGP. Bus fares are similarly inexpensive.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Alexandria. Simply request a ride to the Citadel of Qaitbay (قلعة قايتباي). Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Citadel typically costs 30-50 EGP.

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Discover more about Lighthouse of Alexandria

The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was a towering structure built by the Ptolemaic Kingdom in the 3rd century BC. It stood on the island of Pharos, guiding ships into Alexandria's busy harbor for over 1500 years. The lighthouse was commissioned by Ptolemy I Soter and completed during the reign of his son, Ptolemy II Philadelphus. Designed by Sostratus of Cnidus, it was an engineering marvel, standing over 100 meters tall and constructed from limestone and granite. The lighthouse comprised three tiers: a square lower section, an octagonal middle section, and a cylindrical upper section. A fire at the top, enhanced by a burnished bronze mirror, provided the beacon. Legend says the light could be seen from 35 miles away. The lighthouse served not only as a navigational aid but also as a symbol of Alexandria's wealth and power. Earthquakes between the 10th and 14th centuries AD caused severe damage, and the lighthouse was eventually abandoned. In 1480, Sultan Qaitbay used the remaining stones to build the Citadel of Qaitbay on the site. In 1994, underwater archaeologists discovered ruins of the lighthouse in Alexandria's Eastern Harbour. Today, visitors can explore the Citadel of Qaitbay and, with special permission, dive the underwater site to witness the remnants of this ancient wonder.

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