..:: Alexandria ::.. Review on Alexandria

Alexandria stretches nearly 70 kilometers (45 miles) along the Mediterranean coast, with urban areas covering more than 100 square kilometers. Its rich population of more than 4 million still reflects her ancient history and close ties to the Mediterranean. With ethnic minorities including Armenians, Greeks, Italians, Lebanese, Maltese, and Syrians among others, Alexandria is considered the most diverse culturally of all Egyptian cities.

Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great 2,335 years ago. Alexander wanted this city to be the intellectual center of the world and a base to control his kingdom. Today, Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and it largest seaport. It is 70 kilometers long along the Mediterranean cost. The city is located 200 kilometers north of Egypt’s capital Cairo.

The city is known for its gardens, markets, museums and cinemas. There are also many sports that are practiced in Alexandria, such as diving and sailing. There are 8,000 monuments in the city, in addition to remnants of airplanes and ships that were destroyed during World War II.

There are many museums in the city, one of the most important one being the Greek Roman museum, which was established in 1893. It includes many earthen and carved works and paintings. There is also the Royal Jewels Museum in Al-Nabela Fatima Al-Zahra palace. The 4,185 square meter palace was turned into a museum in 1986. It includes jewelry from Muhammad Ali Pasha family. One of the most famous ones is the crown of Shuwekar, the first wife of King Fuad.

One of the most famous ancient monuments there is medieval Kaytbai Fort. The fort was eventually constructed in 1498 on the foundation of the old Lighthouse that collapsed in earthquakes.

Alexandria has a museum for marine science and it includes rare types of fish in an aquarium. The museum talks about the sea battles the city witnessed over the years.

Kafafees museum depicts the life of the Greek poet Kafafees who loved the city and lived in it.

Among the few landmarks are th emosques of Abul-Dardaa, a muslim scholar and one of the companions of the prophet Muhammad; and the mosque of Al-Mursi Abul-Abbas, an Andalusian-style mosque.

One of Alexandria’s landmarks that is steeped in superstitions is Masoud well. It is one of the most famous wells in Egypt and visited by many. People believe that they could throw a coin inside and make a wish and it will come true. The well is 16 meters deep and three meters wide.

Alexandria’s coast stretches along the city. Some of the most famous beaches is San Stifano, Al-Shatibi, Al-Ebrahemeya, Al-Muntazah and Al-Ajmi.

During the 20th cetury, the city became Egypt’s summer Capital. One of the most beautiful beaches of Alexandria is Al-Muntazah coast (Cleopatra island), where according to mythology, Queen Cleopatra lived one of her most beautiful days. The Late King Fouad built residential palaces surrounded by enormous gardens on this island to make it the king’s summer residence.

Surrounding Al-Montazah main palace, there are also Burj Al-Sa’a, harmalak, Al-Salamlak, Al-Aswar and Al-Bawaba palaces. Al-Suba Al-Malakeya palace contain rare types of plants in addition to the famous bridge that connects the island with the rest of the gardens.

The site of sunset at Cleopatra beach attracts many visitors to view the beauty of nature. The second most beautiful Alexandria beach is Al-Ajmi beach. It is full of touristic villages and other attractions. Al-Ajmi houses the villas of many celebrities.

The sixth October village, especially Al-Nakheel oasis resort is one of the most beautiful places on Al-Ajmi beach. It is unique for its beautiful coastline and its long line of restaurants and entertainment centers.

Al-Mamourah is another famous part of Alexandria. It is known for its nightlife, gardens and quiet family beaches.