The Alluring City: Alexandria

Alexandria

Now, we’ve all been to places where we thought it’s beauty is incomparable. Take a second thought.

All as a result of its incomprehensible scenery, locals have named it ‘The Bride of The Mediterranean.’ Because of its historic touristic sights, it’s known for holding jaw-dropping history.

Thanks to her people and their brilliant impact on lifting Egypt’s name, its civilization has advanced dramatically. This advancement wouldn’t come to life if it weren’t for the cunning minds of the ancient Alexandrians.

Besides all its greatness, Alexandria gives you a homey feel; a feeling that you found your second home as the aroma of home-cooked meals burst through the windows carried away by the breeze of the glistening Mediterranean Sea.

History of Alexandria

The city of Alexandria was named after the person who founded it, Alexander the Great, during the Ptolemaic dynastic period.

Arriving all the way from Greece, he wanted to construct a Greek city of Egypt’s coast after winning a battle over the Persians who dominated Egypt during the first Egyptian satrapy (27th dynasty).

The main goal was to absorb all the financial advantages of the Nile River, linking it with Greece. Surprisingly, experts have suggested that the main reason Alexander was off to Egypt was because he wanted to be Egyptian because he admired the ancient Egyptian’s religious practices and culture.

It even got to the point where he no longer wanted to refer to himself as Greek, but rather an ‘Egyptian god.’ At one point, due to his officials’ great construction plans for the city, it became the largest in the world then second to Rome.

This, later, encouraged Greeks of different backgrounds to live in Egypt. Unfortunately, Alexander wasn’t around to see this great achievement that followed his death in 323 BC.

Present of the city

Following up to the present day, I took a glimpse of how the Greeks impacted the city and its people.

The Greek Orthodox Church and the great ancient library (that made me stroll around and admire the wondrous books and spiral of fantasies, leading me up to the enjoyment of gaining historical knowledge) were built and enhanced by ancient Greeks.

It was once thought by historians that Aristotle gave Alexander and his friends classes in that library. The lighthouse of Alexandria was built by the Greek architect, Sostratus of Cindus.

This Greek extravaganza is considered to be one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, and let me tell you this: it absolutely deserves the title!

Activities to do in Alexandria

Searching for activities to do in Alexandria? You can start off your morning with a peaceful walk along the corniche, and you might as well try your hand at fishing from the Nile River! As the sun sets, try a seafood lunch at Santorini Greek Restaurant for a divine meal.

Learn more about the city’s rich history while visiting Ras-el-Tin palace. Additionally, the natural sights surrounding the palace offer a feeling of admiration as you walk along the Mediterranean’s shore.

The most recent hot spot is the Tolip Hotel where you can take a cruise, relax at a spa with lavish treatments, and more. I highly recommend this hotel if you ever consider visiting Alexandria or have visited it before.

Wrapping Up

Overall, Alexandria is a large city that will bring up a longing feeling in you. By the time you have to leave, you’ll wish that you would’ve stayed longer, so I recommend staying over 5 days on your visit.

All its history and legacy brought up intelligent people today recreating history of their ascendant. For me personally, it gave me hope that Egypt has the capability of being pushed out there in the midst of flourishing countries.

It also taught me that persistence is key to developing such a community of caring, cunning, and courageous people. These traits were the factor that made them not give up on any hardships they met along the way. That’s why I believe no place is as alluring as Alexandria!

Alia Mohamed
Author:

Year 9