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Alexandria, the bride of the Mediterranean, is not merely a beautiful coastal city glittering on the shores of the sea but a timeless chapter of human history filled with tales reflecting the diversity of cultures and the richness of civilizations that have passed through it. Founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great, who dreamed of making it a hub of civilization, culture, and commerce, the city has since served as an ancient window to the Mediterranean world.

Alexandria in the Ptolemaic Era

After the death of Alexander the Great, Alexandria became the capital of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, which ruled Egypt for three centuries. The Ptolemies aimed to make Alexandria a center of science and knowledge, establishing the famous Library of Alexandria, which became an intellectual beacon that attracted scholars and philosophers from around the world. According to accounts, the library housed hundreds of thousands of manuscripts covering various sciences and arts, but unfortunately, it was destroyed in successive incidents, making it a symbol of the loss of human heritage.

Alongside the library was the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which stood proudly on the island of Pharos. This lighthouse served as a guide for sailors and was one of the greatest architectural achievements of its time. Tales suggest that its light reached far out to sea, making it a symbol of a city that never sleeps.

Cultural and Religious Diversity

Alexandria was a crossroads of different cultures, where Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Jews met. This cultural and religious diversity gave the city a unique character of coexistence and civilizational interaction. In the Roman era, Alexandria became a major commercial and cultural center, with numerous temples, theaters, and public baths built. Alexandrian philosophy flourished, blending Greek thought with Egyptian heritage.

With the advent of Christianity in Egypt, Alexandria became a significant center for Christianity. The city played a pivotal role in shaping Christian thought, with the emergence of the Alexandrian School of Theology, one of the most prominent educational centers in the Christian world. The city also witnessed the appearance of notable figures such as Saint Mark, considered the founding patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

The Islamic Era

With the arrival of Islam in Egypt in the seventh century AD, Alexandria became an important cultural center in the Islamic world. Muslims took an interest in developing the city and renewing its infrastructure, building many mosques and schools. Alexandria played a prominent role in maritime trade between East and West, with thriving ports and markets.

During the Mamluk and Ottoman eras, Alexandria retained its status as a commercial and cultural city. The city was influenced by Islamic and Turkish culture, giving its streets and neighborhoods a unique architectural character, still evident today.

The Modern Renaissance

In the nineteenth century, Alexandria experienced a renaissance under the campaign of Muhammad Ali Pasha, who rebuilt the port and made the city a hub for trade and industry. During this period, Alexandria attracted foreign communities from Europe and the Middle East, enhancing its cultural diversity. European architecture spread throughout the city, giving it a cosmopolitan character.

In the twentieth century, Alexandria played a significant role in Egypt's national movement. The city was home to many national and literary figures, such as the Greek poet Cavafy, who lived and wrote about Alexandria, and Ahmed Zaki Abu Shadi, who contributed to enriching the city's cultural life.

Historical Landmarks of Alexandria

Alexandria still retains many of its historical landmarks that testify to its glorious past. The Qaitbay Citadel, built in the fifteenth century on the ruins of the old Lighthouse of Alexandria, is one of the most prominent of these landmarks. The citadel offers a breathtaking view of the sea and tells stories of the city's defense in various eras.

There is also the Roman Theater in the Kom El-Dikka area, a testament to the Roman era in which the city flourished. The theater is characterized by its unique circular design and beautiful marble columns. Pompey’s Pillar is another iconic landmark of Alexandria, erected in the Roman era in honor of Emperor Diocletian