Egypt’s coastal jewel Alexandria blends ancient wonders, rich history, and Mediterranean charm, making it a must-visit travel destination for culture lovers.Cradled by the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria stands as Egypt’s largest port city on the coast—and one of its most captivating historical gems. Often overshadowed by Cairo and Luxor, this enchanting northern destination has long been dubbed the “Bride of the Mediterranean” and “Pearl of the Coast,” thanks to its dazzling waterfront charm and rich cultural tapestry.
What many travelers may not realize is that Alexandria once held the title of Egypt’s capital for nearly 1,000 years. Located roughly 220 kilometers (136 miles) northwest of Cairo, this majestic city served as the nation’s center of power from 332 BC to 642 AD—a monumental era in Egypt’s storied timeline.Founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great, the legendary ruler of ancient Macedon, Alexandria was one of several cities named in his honor throughout his vast empire.
However, this coastal jewel remains the sole surviving namesake in Egypt today. Nestled on the edge of the Nile Delta, Alexandria flourished quickly, eclipsing the city of Memphis (near present-day Cairo) as the epicenter of Hellenistic Egypt.Its reign as the capital lasted until the Muslim conquest in 641 AD, which led to the establishment of a new capital in Fustat, a settlement that would later become part of modern-day Cairo.
In antiquity, Alexandria stood tall as .
