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Macedonian
Emperor, Alexander the Great, came to Egypt after conquering Greece
and selected, Alexandria, a small fishing village on the Mediterranean
coast to establish his new capital, Alexandria.
Today, Alexandria is Egypt's second biggest city and major Sea
Port, blending Roman, Coptic, and Greek sightseeing areas. Alex
is well known for its beautiful beaches and sea views.
"The best way of seeing Alexandria is to wander aimlessly." Edward
M. Forster.
Montazah Palace and Gardens:
Explore the gardens and beach that made Montazah a city of pleasures.
Now a state guesthouse, the Montazah palace, is a celebration
of Turkish and Florentine eras. The Shallalat (waterfall) Gardens
with rock gardens and a pond, Nouzha Gardens, near Alexandria
Zoo, and Antoniadis Gardens, all provide natural pleasures for
a restful afternoon.
The Roman Theatre:
A well-preserved ancient theatre that took nearly 30 years to
fully excavate. 800 marble seats, galleries and sections of mosaic
flooring make any show here more memorable.
The Anfushi Tombs:
Dated at 250 BC, these limestone tombs were specially painted
to simulate alabaster and marble. Decorations of Egyptian gods
also depict daily life.
Fort Qaitbey:
This landmark is a Giant lighthouse off the northern tip of the
Eastern Harbor. Originally the site of Pharos, this ancient lighthouse
has been a light in the dark for sailors and a vantage point of
the Mediterranean since 279 BC. A navel museum and mosque are
contained within.
The Catacombs of Kom es-Shoqafa:
A labyrinth of tombs is stacked on three levels. 2nd century AD
statues of Sobek and Anubis wearing Roman armors are inside.
The Greco-Roman Museum:
Covering a period from the 3rd century BC to the 7th century AD,
this collection retraces the numerous influences that spurned
local spiritual evolution known in Alexandria as the cult Serapis,
a Greco-Roman and Pharaonic religious fusion.
The Royal Jewelry Museum:
Minor Museum in Glym, containing the personal collection of Muhammad
Ali.
The Eastern Harbor:
Enjoy the sites and sounds of this ancient port as fishermen and
boat builders make a living here as they once did. Serene palms
and stately colonial mansions dot the landscape of the bay.
Beaches:
Beaches and tourist facilities line the Corniche of Alex. Stanley
beach, Montazah Beach, Aggamy, and Ma'amoura are four fine beaches.
Abu Qir, a small fishing town, provides a good spot for sunbathing,
fishing, swimming and fresh seafood.
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