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The bride of Mediterranean: Amazing Capital of Alexandria

By, ET Team
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Called the “Bride of Mediterranean” by locals, Alexandria is the largest city on the Mediterranean, the fourth-largest city in the Arab world, and the ninth-largest urban area in Africa. The city extends about 40 km at the northern coast of Egypt along the Mediterranean Sea. 

bride of Mediterranean which is the second capital of Egypt and its largest city .was called the bride of Mediterranean because it is located on the coast of the Mediterranean sea about 55 km northwest of the Nile Delta. It is bordered on the north by the Mediterranean Sea and Lake Mariout.

Alexandria was built on the ruins of an ancient Egyptian village called Rhakotis, meaning “the built city”. It was considered one of Alexander’s settlements and was called Alexandria ad Aegyptum (Alexandria in Egypt) during the Roman rule. After the Islamic conquest of Alexandria, the name was Arabized using “al” and adding the feminine suffix, resulting in the current name “Alexandria”.

History of Alexandria

History-about-The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-EgyptaTours

History-about-The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-EgyptaTours

Evidence suggests human activity in different periods from 27th to 21st millennium BC and from 800 to 1000 BC. Evidence indicates trade bases between Ramses and Crete in this area but it was lost with the arrival of Alexander. Alexander the Great founded the city after taking the Egyptian satrapy from the Persians and turned it into a large Greek colony on the coast bearing his name.

He chose Alexandria to replace Naucratis. After Alexander’s departure, his deputy continued to expand Alexandria. After Alexander’s death, Ptolemy brought Alexander’s body to Egypt and declared himself king of Egypt making Alexandria the new capital.

Alexandria became a major Greek city with a Greek population and the population gradually increased. The Library of Alexandria was established and later destroyed during the siege. Riots broke out between the Greek and Jewish populations escalating into insults and violence. Alexandria was later destroyed by a tsunami. 

In the Islamic era:

The palace of Traios was built and known as the Persian Fortress and was conquered by the Persians then taken back by Emperor Heraclius and later conquered by the Arabs. Islam spread gradually and the first governor was Utba ibn Abi Sufyan. Many Arab imams lived there. In the medieval period, Alexandria emerged as an important trade center and one of the major ports serving as an outlet for goods from the Arabian Peninsula.

Goods arrived in Alexandria via Aden, then were unloaded at the port of Aidhab and from there to the Nile and Alexandria. This was considered the easiest and cheapest transportation method. 

Latin merchants had special judicial privileges: they were tried by their consul if a subject of the sultan filed a complaint against them and they weren’t tried by civil judges but by the Mazalim (sultan’s courts).

Alexandria lost its importance in international trade after the Portuguese discovered a new sea route to India in the late 15th century which reduced the amount of goods transported through Alexandria’s port and reduced the Mamluks’ political power.

In 1517, the Ottomans conquered the city and it remained under Ottoman rule until 1798. Alexandria regained its importance after the Mahmoudiya Canal was built in 1820.

Modern Alexandria

Alexandria played a big role in Napoleon’s campaign on Egypt in 1798. French forces occupied the city until a British campaign arrived in 1801. The British defeated the French in the Battle of Alexandria on March 21, 1801 and the city fell to them on September 2, 1801.

Mohammed Ali started rebuilding and developing the city around 1810 and by 1850, Alexandria was back to its former glory. Egypt turned to Europe to try to modernize the country. Greeks and other Europeans started moving to the city. In the early 20th century, the city became home to novelists and poets.

In 1882, the city was bombarded by British naval forces and occupied. In 1954, the city was targeted by an Israeli bombing campaign. On October 26, 1954, Manshiya Square was the site of a failed assassination attempt on Gamal Abdel Nasser.

After the Suez Crisis in 1956, Europeans started leaving Alexandria and nationalization of property by Nasser led to most of them leaving the country.

Geography of Alexandria

The city consists of clay deposits of soil with oolitic sand, oolitic limestone, gray shell dolomite, marly dolomite, oncolytic limestone, dolomite and shell limestone, all due to its location west of the Nile Delta on the southern Mediterranean coast.

The Climate of Alexandria

Alexandria has a hot desert climate and temperatures are reduced due to winds coming from the Mediterranean Sea. Summer is hot and dry and winter is mild and humid. January is the coolest month and August is the hottest.

Why does Alexandria have many Tourist attractions?

 in addition to archaeological sites such as Qaitbay Castle and Al-Sawary column? What made it even more beautiful is that it is divided into nine administrative districts, which are the first district of Al-Montazah, the second district, Al-Montazah, East District, Central District, West District, and Al-Jumrok.

How the Construction of Alexandria Looks Like?

the construction of the city of Alexandria has its own art, as Alexander the Great began work on construction in 332 BC, by filling in part of the water separating the island of Pharos and the village of Rakouda.

Alexander the Great and his successors took it as the capital of Egypt for nearly a thousand years until the Islamic conquest of Egypt by Amr ibn Al-Aas 641 One of the landmarks that helped make the city of Alexandria famous among the peoples of the world is the ancient Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse of bride of Mediterranean, which is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, due to its enormous height of about 120 meters. This lighthouse remained standing until its time, a strong earthquake in 1307 AD.

Short Story about bride of Mediterranean

Alexandria is famous as the largest city on the Mediterranean sea and also it was one of the most important cities in the ancient world and it was founded by the great alexander in 332 BC with very unique design which make it the most beautiful city on the Mediterranean. The city contains a lot of iconic sites such as Pompey’s Pillar, catacombs of Kom Shoqafa and Roman theater.

Alexandria City also Include the oldest library in the world which known as “bibliotheca of Alexandria” and it was like the source of knowledge to all corners of the world so that it was the home to the greatest minds and scientists.

Alexandria also marked precisely in the military operations that Napoleon sent in 1978 and it was under their control till the arrival of British forces in 1801  

 Actually, Alexandria is a destination not be missed. What a mix between the beauty of beaches and Rich history from different eras!

The Bride of Mediterranean Sea Highlights

The Bride of the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria, is a city full of charm, history, and stunning coastal beauty. Visitors can stroll along the iconic Corniche, explore ancient landmarks like the Citadel of Qaitbay, and marvel at the historic Alexandria Library. The city’s blend of Mediterranean vibes, vibrant culture, and fascinating history makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure along Egypt’s northern coast.

The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

7-Days-Cairo-Luxor-And-Alexandria-Tour-Catacombs-Of-Kom-El-Shoqafa-Egypta-Tours

It is one of the most important archaeological sites in the city and is considered one of the most famous treasures of Alexandria and one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. It consists of a series of tombs, statues and Alexandrian archaeological remains. It is characterized by the fusion of Pharaonic and Roman art and the tomb has 3 floors underground and has a spiral staircase at the end of the floors. The tomb is the only one that blends the design, style and decoration of the Egyptian and Roman civilizations.

The Library of Alexandria

Family-Activities-In-Egypt-For-Kids-Alexandria-Library-Cultural-Visit

The Library of Alexandria is one of the largest libraries in ancient times, built during the Ptolemaic era and containing 700,000 volumes. The library was exposed to many fires and was a center for science and culture, containing books on Egyptian and Greek civilizations.

It was revived in 2002 as the New Library of Alexandria, one of the largest libraries in the world. The new library contains a large collection of books and manuscripts and provides research and educational services to students and researchers in all fields.

The library also has a conference hall and a children’s library. The library represents an important symbol of culture and education in Egypt, attracting tourists from around the world.

Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria

The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Egypt-Qaitbay-Citadel

The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Egypt-Qaitbay-Citadel

The garrison, which replaced one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is a famous castle in Alexandria, one of the historical landmarks of Egypt, which has an important role in the history of Egypt, especially in the centuries that followed its construction and continued in the defensive role of the city until the nineteenth century when it was bombed by the English fleet invading Egypt.

It was then transformed from a defensive place to an archaeological place, where the government restored the towers, observation rooms and parts that were destroyed to become one of the most important Egyptian Islamic monuments that increase the importance of the city of bride of Mediterranean for its residents and visitors.

It was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, where the lighthouse was built during the Ptolemaic era, but it was demolished due to the earthquakes it witnessed.

Al Mursi Abu El – Abbas Mosque

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The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Egypt-Abu-Al-Abbas-Al-Mursi-Mosque

It is considered one of the most famous mosques in the bride of Mediterranean, the mosque is located in the Bahary area Named by this name in relation to the tomb of Sheikh Shehab El-Din Ibn Ahmed El-Mursi.

The mosque has become one of the most famous mosques with distinctive artistic touches, as it is distinguished by its distinctive shape domes.

Pompey’s Pillar

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The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Egypt-Pompey’s-Pillar

Pompey’s Pillar in Alexandria is a striking Roman monument and one of the tallest ancient monolithic columns in Egypt. Erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in the 3rd century AD, it stands proudly in the historic Serapeum complex. Made from red granite and towering over 25 meters high, the pillar symbolizes Alexandria’s rich Roman heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s ancient architectural brilliance.

Roman Theatre

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The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Egypt-Roman-Theater

The Roman Theater of Alexandria is a remarkable archaeological site that showcases the city’s rich Roman-era history. Discovered near the Kom El-Dikka area, the theater once hosted performances, public gatherings, and cultural events. Its semi-circular design, tiered seating, and well-preserved stage area reflect the advanced engineering and artistic sensibilities of ancient Roman architects, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Alexandria’s vibrant past.

Mark’s Cathedral in Alexandria

Mark's-Cathedral-in-Alexandria-EgyptaTours

Mark’s-Cathedral-in-Alexandria-EgyptaTours

We must stand firm in front of the greatness of Coptic art and the genius of the ancient man in art and decoration, whether in temples, mosques, churches and others.

The Holy See of Alexander, known as the Coptic Church, and the Coptic Church has a great place in the world history of the Church. where the Church of St. Mark became the seat of the Church Penguin for a thousand years. then the headquarters moved several times until it is now in the land of Anba Ruwais in Abbasiya.

Alexandria National Museum

The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Museum-EgyptaTours

The-Bride-Of-The-Mediterranean-Alexandria-Museum-EgyptaTours

There is no visit to bride of Mediterranean without visitors going to the National Museum in Alexandria. which is one of the most important museums in Alexandria. namely the Roman Museum and the National Museum. where they serve as the pillars upon which tourism is based. The Italian mansion remained there until 1945 AD. then sold it to the US Embassy.

This palace remained the headquarters of the US Consulate until the Supreme Council of Antiquities of the Ministry of Culture bought it in 1996 AD. then restored and renovated it and turned it into a museum. A statue representing the Egyptian writer and a group of pots were found in the pyramid of King Djoser.

If You Would Like To Enjoy The Beauty And The Magic Of These Cities In Egypt, You Can Choose One Of Our Egypt Classic Tours Packages, Nile Cruises, Day Tours Or At Least You Can Customize Your Own Tour.

FAQs

What is bride of Mediterranean Egypt famous for?

Internationally renowned for its iconic landmarks and historical sites, including the ancient city of bride of Mediterranean and its magnificent monuments. The city’s attractions include the famous Alexandria National Museum, Fort Qaitbay, Kom el-Dikka, Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar and Montazah Gardens.

Where is Alexandria today?

bride of Mediterranean today is located in Egypt. The city is a meditation port and a tourist destination and a major center for trade and commerce

Was Alexandria a Greek city?

In antiquity, Alexandria, bride of Mediterranean was one of the most important cities in the world. It was the home of one of the largest and most influential libraries in history, and it was also a major center of trade. Some historians believe that bride of Mediterranean was originally a Greek city, but others dispute this claim. Regardless of its origins, Alexandria is an impressive site today.

Can I wear jeans in Egypt?

Jeans are a popular item to wear in many countries including Egypt.

Who destroyed Alexandria?

A group of Roman soldiers led by General Julius Caesar deliberately destroyed the great city of Alexandria in 48 BCE. The Alexandrian library, one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of knowledge in the world at the time, was burned and looted, marking the end of an era for humanity.

What was Alexandria called before Alexander the Great?

Alexandria was originally called Apollonia. It was founded By <strong>the Egyptian pharaoh</strong> Amasis II in 306 BC as a small settlement on the eastern bank of the Nile opposite Thebes. In 305 BC, Hamilcar Barca, leader of the Carthaginian army during the Third Punic War, captured the city from Amasis and renamed it after his son Alexander. Alexandria became the principal Greek city in Egypt and one of the most important in Africa. Under Ptolemy I Soter (285-246 BC) Alexandria reached its greatest splendour.

How did Alexandria become so rich?

bride of Mediterranean was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, and rapidly became one of the most powerful cities in the world. Over time, its wealth and power grew thanks to its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea, as well as its trade links with other countries.

Today, bride of Mediterranean remains a major tourist destination, with many of the city’s landmarks still standing. Its wealth has also allowed it to maintain a strong economy and become one of the most affluent cities in the world.

Why is ancient Alexandria underwater?

There are many possible explanations for why ancient bride of Mediterranean is underwater, but the primary cause appears to be climate change. Rising seas are slowly erasing coastal cities all over the world, and bride of Mediterranean may be next in line.

Has the library of Alexandria been found?

A group of archaeologists believe they have found the library of Alexandria, an ancient and much-desired scholarly center, buried deep beneath the sand in Egypt. The discovery was made while the group was investigating a building project in Alexandria’s old city.

The building is believed to have been a warehouse for tax documents and other government records, and when construction crews began digging down to install utilities, they found layers of packed sand and brick that indicated there had been a structure there previously. After removing some of the debris, the archaeologists uncovered several walls that appeared to be from an ancient library.

Is there anything left of ancient Alexandria?

The once-magnificent city of Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and quickly grew to become one of the most important trade centers in the Mediterranean. The city was famed for its beautiful architecture, art, and literature, but after centuries of decline, it was virtually destroyed by a series of fires in antiquity. Today, only a few isolated ruins remain a testament to what once was one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

Why is Alexandria important to Christianity?

Alexandria is an important Christian city because it was one of the first places that Christianity spread. It is also where Saint Mark the Evangelist preached the gospel to many people. The apostle Mark is said to have founded the church in Alexandria, and it soon became a center for Christian scholarship. Many famous theologians and writers came from bride of Mediterranean, including Clement of Alexandria, Origen, and Athanasius.

What was lost in the fire of Alexandria?

The ancient city of bride of Mediterranean, renowned for its libraries and monuments, was destroyed by a fire in August of 2013. The loss of this cultural heritage is still being felt today, as the city lacks the resources to rebuild what was lost.

What were some of the most important objects lost in the fire? Dozens of important pieces from the collection were destroyed. The most significant loss was the library, which contained tens of thousands of books, including some that only arrived in the building two years ago. They were not insured and were irreplaceable.

Is part of Alexandria underwater?

Yes, parts of the old city of bride of Mediterranean are underwater due to climate changes over the years.

Has Queen Nefertiti’s tomb been found?

Queen Nefertiti is one of ancient Egypt’s most beloved and celebrated royal women. her tomb was never found.

Are there any living descendants of Cleopatra?

As per the historical records, Cleopatra had four children, and all of them died. She has no direct descendants.

Where is Cleopatra’s mummy?

Ancient Egypt is a land of mystery. Many of the great pyramids and tombs remain largely unexplored, and many questions still linger about this long-lost civilization. One of the most fascinating mysteries concerns the whereabouts of Cleopatra’s mummy.

According to legend, Cleopatra was assassinated by her own brother and she was buried in a secret tomb on the island of Pharos. However, no trace of her remains has ever been found – leading many to believe that she was actually cremated and her ashes scattered across the Nile River.

Part of the intrigue surrounding this topic is that there are many conflicting details about what happened to Cleopatra’s mummy. The most common theory is that she was burned and her ashes were scattered by the Nile River.

is Alexandria-The Bride of Mediterranean worth visiting?

yeah, you should visit all Egypt country it was nice and beautiful.

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Picture of About The Author: ET Team

About The Author: ET Team

Driven by curiosity and a deep love for Egypt, the EgyptaTours Team brings history to life through thoughtful research and real on-ground experience. Their work focuses on telling the stories behind Egypt’s 5,000-year-old civilization, guiding readers through iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures with clarity, passion, and genuine insight.

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