Alexandria Archeological Day Tour

Exploring Alexandria’s Glorious Past

The one day guided group tour from Cairo to Alexandria offers an insightful journey through some of the city’s most iconic historical attractions. Leaving early morning from hotels in Cairo or Giza, travellers will embark on a 3 hour drive to Alexandria. A professionally licensed guide will provide seamless transportation and commentary throughout the tour stops as outlined in the itinerary.

Roman Theatre – A Showcase of Ptolemaic Culture
The first major highlight is the Roman Theatre, one of the key features dating back to Alexandria’s Ptolemaic era. With a headline act capacity of 15,000, this structure was undoubtedly the center of entertainment for locals and visitors alike. Its 3-level seating arrangement, known as the cavea, and ornate carvings transport one to the hustling cultural scene in antiquity. Experts believe this theatre held performances of plays, music and poetry recitals that were highly popular during that golden period.

Catacomb of Kom El-Shokafa – A Labyrinth of History
Next on the agenda is the UNESCO site of Catacomb of Kom El-Shokafa, situated right below the busy streets of Alexandria. Spread across 3 levels underground, it offers a compelling glimpse into the 3rd century AD burial traditions of wealthy residents. The narrow passages lined with carved wall decorations lead one through the multi-room necropolis. With intricate paintings and hieroglyphs still intact, wandering these quiet tunnels feels like an entry into the afterlife dimensions of old.

Library of Alexandria – Once a Knowledge Powerhouse
An essential stopover is the site of the legendary Library of Alexandria, considered the epic knowledge archive of its time housing over 500,000 manuscripts. Unfortunately, almost none of the original architecture remains today. However, informative displays explain how such a massive collection was organized logistically as well as the library’s immeasurable impact on scholarship. Researchers are continually digging to piece together more details of this seminal institution that shaped global education forever.

Marvel at Pompey’s Towering Pillar
Next is the sole survivor of a whole structure – Pompey’s Pillar, carved from red Aswan granite in the 3rd century AD. Original purpose was a temple peristyle hall but now it stands alone in solitary grandeur at 22m height and 7m circumference. Up close, intricate carvings of animals, plants and geometric patterns depicting construction techniques fascinate visitors. This lone pillar serves as a reminder of the scale and beauty of architecture that was once ubiquitous in this port town.

Qaitbay Citadel – Protecting the Coastline
Concluding the tour is a photo stop at the Qaitbay Citadel overlooking the Eastern Harbour. Constructed in 1477 AD by Sultan Al Ashraf Qaitbay, it defended Alexandria strategically from invasions. Strolling along its robust limestone walls and towers allows for appreciation of the military engineering involved as well as scenic vistas. This fortification played a pivotal protective role and its imposing presence continues resonating history even today.

A Rewarding Insight into Alexandria
This action-packed one day itinerary ensures travelling back in time to experience Alexandria’s grand role as a bustling center of Hellenistic culture, Roman occupation and later Islamic civilization. Under expert guidance, each resplendent antiquated site showcased offers deeper contextual layers to the city’s heritage. Visitors gain multi-dimensional perspectives that ignite the imagination and curiosity to discover more about this fabled North African port destination.