Alexandria Library, Fort Qait Bey & Roman Theater
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a guided drive through Alexandria, passing such sights as the civic center, the main square and the bazaar.
Alexandria is a unique city, juxtaposing old and new - striking, contemporary architecture can be found in close proximity to ancient landmarks. Alexandria is Egypt's second largest city with a population of approximately 3.5 million people. It has a rich history and has witnessed many historical events and legends.
You'll travel along the Corniche, a picturesque, seafront road, en route to the eastern harbor. In the distance stands Fort Qaitbey, majestic and white, set against the blue Mediterranean Sea. The 15th-century fort was built by Sultan Qaitbey to defend Egypt against the threat of the Turks. Fort Quitbey occupies a narrow peninsula and was built near the ruins of the Pharos lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. if you look closely you can see remnants of the lighthouse incorporated into the fort's design. In 1984 the Egyptian Antiquities Organization made ambitious plans to restore the medieval fort, and today it houses a navel museum.
Continue to explore the legacy of the area as you tour The Roman Amphitheater, which stands in the center of Alexandria. Despite its location in modern Alexandria, it is easy to imagine yourself in ancient times when you sit on one of the amphitheater's marble platforms. The Roman Amphitheater was discovered in 1967 when plans were made to build a modern structure on the site. The well-preserved amphitheater features 13 tiers of seats in European marble, columns of green marble from Asia Minor, and mosaic pavings. The theater was possibly an ancient concert and poetry venue, and recent discoveries show the presence of a nearby Roman baths. It is the only Roman Theater in Egypt and one of a kind.
In striking contrast to the ancient archeological sites, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, also known as The New Library of Alexandria, is a state-of-the-art facility integrating the library with museums, a planetarium, exhibit halls, educational centers and international conference facilities. The complex is a contemporary translation of Alexandria's ancient library, one of the great centers of learning until its destruction in 1100 A.D. A Norwegian architect competed against 1,400 applicants for the honors to design this dramatic building. It is constructed in the shape of a massive sundial and cost $200 million dollars to complete.
A 30-minute return drive to port takes you through the streets of this incredible city, filled with architectural treasures both old and new.
Points of interest
Ancient Alexandria
Modern Alexandria
Schedule
Special Notes
You are visiting a predominately Muslim country, dress appropriately, wear conservative dress that covers the shoulders and knees - trousers for men, and trousers, skirts or dresses for women. Do not wear clothing printed with graphics that may offend.
Camera and video fees sometimes apply in the Library of Alexandria. All regulations are subject to change without notice. Flash photography is totally prohibited inside the Library of Alexandria.
The Library of Alexandria is closed on Fridays and Saturdays. On weekdays the library is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. A visit to the National Museum of Alexandria will be substituted when the Library of Alexandria is closed.
The Library of Alexandria does not allow children 6 years old and under to visit the exhibition.
Exceptional Value
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Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a guided drive through Alexandria, passing such sights as the civic center, the main square and the bazaar.
Alexandria is a unique city, juxtaposing old and new - striking, contemporary architecture can be found in close proximity to ancient landmarks. Alexandria is Egypt's second largest city with a population of approximately 3.5 million people. It has a rich history and has witnessed many historical events and legends.
You'll travel along the Corniche, a picturesque, seafront road, en route to the eastern harbor. In the distance stands Fort Qaitbey, majestic and white, set against the blue Mediterranean Sea. The 15th-century fort was built by Sultan Qaitbey to defend Egypt against the threat of the Turks. Fort Quitbey occupies a narrow peninsula and was built near the ruins of the Pharos lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. if you look closely you can see remnants of the lighthouse incorporated into the fort's design. In 1984 the Egyptian Antiquities Organization made ambitious plans to restore the medieval fort, and today it houses a navel museum.
Continue to explore the legacy of the area as you tour The Roman Amphitheater, which stands in the center of Alexandria. Despite its location in modern Alexandria, it is easy to imagine yourself in ancient times when you sit on one of the amphitheater's marble platforms. The Roman Amphitheater was discovered in 1967 when plans were made to build a modern structure on the site. The well-preserved amphitheater features 13 tiers of seats in European marble, columns of green marble from Asia Minor, and mosaic pavings. The theater was possibly an ancient concert and poetry venue, and recent discoveries show the presence of a nearby Roman baths. It is the only Roman Theater in Egypt and one of a kind.
In striking contrast to the ancient archeological sites, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, also known as The New Library of Alexandria, is a state-of-the-art facility integrating the library with museums, a planetarium, exhibit halls, educational centers and international conference facilities. The complex is a contemporary translation of Alexandria's ancient library, one of the great centers of learning until its destruction in 1100 A.D. A Norwegian architect competed against 1,400 applicants for the honors to design this dramatic building. It is constructed in the shape of a massive sundial and cost $200 million dollars to complete.
A 30-minute return drive to port takes you through the streets of this incredible city, filled with architectural treasures both old and new.
Points of interest
Ancient Alexandria
Modern Alexandria
Schedule
Special Notes
You are visiting a predominately Muslim country, dress appropriately, wear conservative dress that covers the shoulders and knees - trousers for men, and trousers, skirts or dresses for women. Do not wear clothing printed with graphics that may offend.
Camera and video fees sometimes apply in the Library of Alexandria. All regulations are subject to change without notice. Flash photography is totally prohibited inside the Library of Alexandria.
The Library of Alexandria is closed on Fridays and Saturdays. On weekdays the library is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. A visit to the National Museum of Alexandria will be substituted when the Library of Alexandria is closed.
The Library of Alexandria does not allow children 6 years old and under to visit the exhibition.