Qaitbay Promenade: Where Alexandria's History Meets the Sea

Discover the new Qaitbay Promenade in Alexandria, Egypt – the longest sea walkway in the country, combining historical charm, coastal beauty, and tourism development around the iconic Qaitbay Citadel.

A Modern Icon Built on Ancient Foundations

In the vibrant city of Alexandria, Egypt's storied Mediterranean capital, history and innovation come together in stunning fashion with the unveiling of the Qaitbay Promenade. Stretching 550 meters into the sea, this newly constructed sea walkway is the longest of its kind in Egypt, and it surrounds one of the city’s most iconic monuments – the Qaitbay Citadel. Designed as a model of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and urban regeneration, the project has transformed Alexandria's eastern waterfront into a thriving destination for locals and international travelers alike.

 

What is the Qaitbay Promenade?

The Qaitbay Promenade is a coastal development project built as part of a comprehensive plan to protect and enhance the area surrounding the historic Qaitbay Citadel. With its 550-meter-long walkway extending into the Mediterranean, it allows visitors to walk directly over the sea, offering panoramic views of the citadel, the harbor, and the endless horizon.

Whether you're walking at sunset, enjoying the cool breeze, or photographing the iconic views, this promenade delivers a one-of-a-kind experience in Egypt's most culturally rich city.

Qaitbay Citadel: A Fortress of History

The Qaitbay Citadel, built in 1477 AD by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay, is not just a monument — it is a symbol of Egyptian maritime strength. Located at the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the citadel served as a vital military fortress during the Mamluk era.

Today, it remains a major historical and cultural landmark in Alexandria, attracting thousands of tourists and historians interested in the city’s layered past.

Strategic Purpose: Protecting Heritage and Enhancing Tourism

The Qaitbay Promenade was developed as a dual-purpose project:

• To protect the citadel and surrounding coastline from the dangers of rising sea levels and seasonal storms.

• To transform the area into a world-class tourism destination that meets modern travel expectations.

The project was executed with advanced concrete technologies designed to resist marine erosion, while maintaining the natural flow of sea currents to protect the beach and surrounding marine environment.

What Can Visitors Expect? The promenade offers a complete experience for visitors: Resting areas and shaded seating spots for relaxation Elegant decorative lighting for evening strolls A 30-meter stone jetty and 100-meter viewing dock for photography and sightseeing Enhanced accessibility for families, seniors, and tourists Opportunities for cultural activities, walking tours, and water sports At night, the promenade transforms into a glowing path over the sea, creating a magical atmosphere for romantic walks, cultural performances, and coastal celebrations.

Revitalizing East Alexandria: A New Cultural Hub

The Qaitbay Promenade is more than an architectural upgrade – it is part of a larger vision to redevelop Alexandria's historical waterfronts. It acts as a catalyst to turn East Alexandria into a vibrant cultural hub, with:

• Tourist-friendly infrastructure

• Cultural festivals and events

• Access to heritage sites and museums

• Opportunities for diving, swimming, and eco-tourism

A Model for Heritage Preservation This project reflects Egypt’s strategy of blending cultural preservation with tourism growth. Instead of separating the past from the present, the Qaitbay development celebrates Alexandria’s history by placing it at the heart of its future. The promenade has been hailed as a model for waterfront heritage protection. It ensures the structural stability of the Qaitbay Citadel while promoting safe, sustainable tourism.

Why the Qaitbay Promenade Matters

In a time when many historical sites face threats from climate change, over-tourism, and neglect, the Qaitbay Promenade stands out as a shining example of what is possible when vision, engineering, and respect for history come together.

It allows visitors to do more than see a monument — it lets them immerse themselves in the story of Alexandria. Walking along the sea, with the fortress on one side and the endless blue horizon on the other, is a powerful reminder of Egypt's legacy and its modern aspirations.

A Must-Visit in Modern Alexandria

Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy Alexandria’s beauty, the Qaitbay Promenade offers a new way to experience the city. Combining breathtaking views, cultural depth, and urban innovation, it is destined to become a signature highlight on Egypt’s tourism map.

Plan your visit. Discover Qaitbay. Walk through centuries of history — above the waves.

Sidi Bishr Mosque – A Spiritual Landmark by the Sea Alexandria

Bishr Ibn Al-Hussein Abdallah Ibn Al-Hussein Ibn Bishr Al-Gohari, descended from the line of the Bishrs who had a special standing as preachers. 

He came to Alexandria at the end of the fifth or the beginning of the sixth century according to the Islamic Calendar (twelfth century CE), along with the ulama who came from the Maghreb and Andalusia during that period.

Sidi Bishr Al-Gohari was a hermit devoted to worship and prayer. He gave up the material world and lived in a distant, lonely spot. When he died in 528 H / 1133 CE, a shrine was set up for him there, and as the city expanded eastwards, a new mosque was built for him at the end of the nineteenth century. 

Sidi Bishr Mosque Architecture 

The mosque contains a rectangular courtyard surrounded by porticoes. The mosque also has an iwan containing three porticoes made of octagonal columns bearing pointed arches. 

The iwan is divided into four corridors parallel to the wall of the qibla. On the western side of the iwan is a shrine containing a square-shaped room surmounted by a dome. 

The dome is considered the oldest part of the mosque, as it dates back to the 19th century CE.[6][7] The mosque has been renovated several times, most notably during the reign of the Khedive Abbas II of Egypt and in 1945, when its size quadrupled

The mosque was renovated during the reign of Khedive Abbas II and a railway line was laid to the mosque, so that the khedive could pray there when he was in Alexandria. The mosque was renovated once more in 1945 CE so that it became four times its original size.

In 1945, the mosque was expanded and added to it, making its area four times what it was. In 1947, a spacious square and a garden were built in front of the mosque, adjacent to the sea shore, so that the Sidi Bishr neighborhood became one of the most famous neighborhoods in Alexandria. In June 2000, during the reign of the Governor, Major General / Mohamed Abdel Salam Mahjoub, the facades of the Sidi Bishr Mosque were renewed and the square facing it .

Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh Mosque: Hidden Spiritual Gem in Alexandria

Discover the hidden beauty of Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh Mosque in Alexandria. Explore its rich Sufi heritage, stunning architecture, and spiritual atmosphere. A must-visit gem in Mosque Square.

If you’re looking to explore the spiritual heart of Alexandria, a visit to Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh Mosque is a must. It offers not just a glimpse into the city’s Sufi heritage, but also a moment of serenity and beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, spiritual seeker, or a curious traveler, this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Yaqut Al Arsh mosque is more than just a historical site; it’s an active spiritual hub. Pilgrims and local residents come here seeking blessings, peace, and reflection. Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh is believed to be a source of spiritual light, and many visit his mausoleum within the mosque to offer prayers. His legacy continues to inspire devotion and respect, drawing people from across Egypt and beyond.

A Brief History of Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh 

Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh was a respected Sufi figure who lived during the Mamluk period. Known for his piety and spiritual wisdom, he was a disciple of Abu Abbas al-Mursi and part of the broader Shadhili Sufi order. The mosque dedicated to him was built to honor his legacy and continues to be a focal point for spiritual seekers and Sufi followers in Alexandria. Its location in the famed Mosque Square places it among other important Islamic landmarks, including the grand Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque.

Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh Mosque: 

A Hidden Spiritual Gem in Alexandria Tucked away in the heart of Alexandria’s Mosque Square, the Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh Mosque is one of those places that locals cherish and travelers often overlook. This beautiful and serene mosque, named after the revered Sufi master Yaqut Al Arsh, isn’t just a place of prayer—it’s a peaceful retreat where history, spirituality, and architecture meet. With its ornate copper inscriptions, intricately designed minbar, and tranquil atmosphere, the mosque offers a glimpse into Alexandria’s deep-rooted Islamic heritage and Sufi traditions.

The Shrine of Yaqut Al-Arsh At the heart of the mosque lies a beautifully preserved shrine, believed to house the resting place of Sidi Yaqut Al Arsh. Enclosed in an elegant wooden structure with delicate carvings and sacred inscriptions, the shrine radiates peace and reverence. Many visitors pause here for reflection or to recite prayers, drawn by the spiritual presence that seems to linger in the air. 

The shrine is often adorned with green cloths, symbolic of peace and paradise in Islamic tradition, and small offerings left by those seeking blessings or spiritual intercession. For many locals, this spot is a spiritual anchor—a quiet reminder of divine connection in the midst of a bustling city.

What Was Said about Sidi Yaqut 

Imam Sha’arani, the great scholar (‘alim) and shaykh in the Shadhuliyya himself, narrates, “He was called al-ʿArshī because his heart was constantly beneath God’s throne (al-ʿarsh), whereas his body only was on Earth. It is also said that (he was given that nickname) because he was listening to the call for prayer (adhan) of the Angels Bearing the Throne of God (hamalat al-ʿarsh).” Al-Munawi further narrates in his own description of Sidi Yaqut as the “loftiest disciple (ajall talamidh)” of al-Mursī. 

He attributes the nickname al-ʿArshi to al-Mursī’s choice himself. He also notes that Abu al-Abbas referred to Sidi Yaqut as “my son” to the other disciples instead of referring to him as “your brother,” signifying his closeness to him. The closeness was felt both ways very much according to Munawi’s descriptions, including the following story: “Once one of the “greats” (al-akābir) entered Yaqut’s place while he was talking to his wife, and he did not want to interrupt her. Then he said (to his visitor): “(She is) my shaykhs’ daughter (bint shaykhi), excuse me!” On a very human level, Sidi Yaqut teaches us many lessons, two of which are about our obsession with race and stature. On race, Sidi Yaqut was born as an enslaved Black person – none of that mattered to Sidi Abu al-Hasan, who married Sidi Yaqut to his daughter, treated him like his own son, and made him his successor (khalifa).

Makeenudeen Al-Asmar 

Muhammad Abdullah bin Mansour the Alexandrian who is commonly known as Makeenudeen al-Asmar or as the Shaykh of the Quranic reciters of Alexandria. He was well versed in the various Qur’anic recitations being taught by Shaykh Abu al-Qasim al-Safrawy.

Shaykh Makeenudeen al-Asmar was one of the companions of Shaykh Abu al-Hasan al-Shadhili whom he fought side by side with against the French crusaders in the battle of Mansoura (648 AH).

He once said (may God be pleased with him) “I remained forty years figuring out Sufism until God destined for my meeting with al-Shadhili at which all that puzzled and confused me before this blessed encounter vanished.” On the extraordinary character and spirit of Makeenudeen, Abu al-Hasan al-Shadhili once said that he was a man ‘who is black in color, white in heart and is from the among the seven Abdal.”

Makeenudeen narrated many of the spiritual states of his teacher, al-Shadhili, to Ibn A’tta-illah al-Iskandary whom, inspired by these wondrous states, incorporated them in his famous book “Lataif al-Minan fee Manaqib al-Shaykayn al-Mursi wa Abu al-Hasan” (Subtleties of the Blessings in the Mountain Passes between the two Shaykh’s al-Mursi and Abu al-Hasan)

The statue of Alexander The Great Alexandria Egypt

The statue of Great Alexander in Alexandria Egypt Exploring the Statue of Alexander the Great | Alexandria, Egypt

The iconic statue of Alexander the Great, located in the beautiful coastal city of Alexandria, Egypt! 

This statue of Great Alexander pays tribute to the legendary Macedonian conqueror and founder of Alexandria. Alexander the Great founded the city in 332 bc after the start of his Persian campaign; it was to be the capital of his new Egyptian dominion and a naval base that would control the Mediterranean.

 Whether you're a history lover or a traveler seeking hidden gems, this statue is a must-see while exploring the city.

📍 Location: 256 Roushdy, Fleming, El Raml 2, Alexandria Governorate 5452003

Imam Al Busiri Mosque The Marvel of Arabic Calligraphy Alexandria Egypt

The Al-Busiri Mosque was named after the great Imam, famous for writing Sufi poetry about the love of God and in praise of his Prophet Muhammad. The fame of his poem “al-Burda” surpasses that of its writer. The mosque is located in Alexandria, in the Anfushi area in the Gomrok (al-Jumruk) district overlooking the Eastern Harbour, on the Midan Al-Masajid (The Square of Mosques). 

The Square of Mosques is so-named because the area is comprised of a large number of shrines to Awliya’ Allah (good people of God), who came to Alexandria during the Ayyubid and Mamluk times. 

Al-Busiri mosque consists of two separate squares: the mosque courtyard with a water fountain in the middle, surrounded by corridors from all directions; and the second square with the qibla wall or iwan al-qibla, which leads to the tomb of Imam al-Busiri. Above the tomb is a metal dome and the minaret which takes the shape of an obelisk. The dome and the minaret are in the 19th-century Turkish style.

Sharaf al Din Al-Busiri was considered one of the greatest poets of the seventh century of Hijra. His poetry mainly described and criticized the social corruption that was rampant during his time. 

Al-Busiri Mosque was built by Mohamed Said Pasha, son of Mohamed Aly, in the Anfushi district of Alexandria, 1270-1279 H./1854-1863 CE, facing both the Abul-'Abbas and Sidi Yaqout al 'Arsh Mosques.

Al-Busiri's Mosque is unique among other mosques in Alexandria because of the richness of its walls with inscriptions and old engravings, including 94 verses from Al-Burda, his eulogy poem of Prophet Mohammad  . 64 verses in Nasta'aliq (Islamic script) are inscribed on the walls of the prayer area and another 30 verses on the walls of the mausoleum. 

Al-Burda mainly expresses Prophet Mohammad's  grandeur and excellence, and also includes parts where the poet asks for God's mercy prays for a cure from an illness he was suffering from at the time he wrote the poem. 

Other inscriptions on the walls of the Al-Busiri Mosque include foundation texts, as well as renovation statements and verses in Arabic and Turkish. Al-Busiri's Mosque was renovated several times, during the reign of Khedive Tawfiq in 1307H./1889 CE, and again in recent times.

The Al-Busiri mosque is noted for its fine mural calligraphy, which includes 94 verses of al-Busiri’s famous poem al-Burda inscribed in ta’liq script. There are also several important Qur’anic inscriptions by the calligrapher Abd al-Ghaffar al-Duri, together with dedicatory lines in Arabic and Turkish.

Secrets of Pompey's Pillar Serapeum of Alexandria Historical landmark in Alexandria

Pompey's Pillar Serapeum of Alexandria Historical landmark in Alexandria

Located in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt, Pompey's Pillar and the Serapeum stand as powerful reminders of the city’s rich and multi-layered history.

Pompey's Pillar

This towering column, made of red Aswan granite, rises about 27 meters high and is one of the largest monolithic columns ever built outside of Rome. Despite its name, it was not built for Pompey, but rather in honor of the Roman Emperor Diocletian around 300 AD, after he quelled a revolt and brought stability to the region.

Serapeum of Alexandria

At the base of the pillar once stood the Serapeum, a magnificent temple dedicated to Serapis, a Greco-Egyptian deity created to unify Egyptian and Greek worshippers. The Serapeum was a major religious center in the Hellenistic world, filled with art, libraries, and sacred rites.

Beneath the ruins lie mysterious underground catacombs and tunnels—passages believed to have held sacred ceremonies and artifacts, many of which are still shrouded in mystery.

The Temple of Serapeum

The Temple of the Serapeum in Alexandria was once one of the most magnificent and revered religious sanctuaries in the ancient world. Dedicated to Serapis, a deity created during the Ptolemaic era to merge Greek and Egyptian religious traditions, the temple symbolized unity, power, and spiritual transformation.

A Fusion of Beliefs

Serapis was a Greco-Egyptian god, combining attributes of the Egyptian gods Osiris and Apis with Hellenistic features resembling Zeus or Hades. The Serapeum served as the center of worship for this hybrid god, aiming to bridge the cultural gap between the Greek and Egyptian populations of Alexandria.

The Sanctuary Pompey' Pillar Column Alexandria Egypt

Underground Passages and Catacombs 

Beneath the ruins of the Serapeum are mysterious underground passages and catacombs, believed to have served various purposes — from religious rituals and initiations to storing sacred objects. These tunnels have intrigued archaeologists and historians for years, as many of their original purposes and meanings remain unknown. Some speculate they were used in secret rites or held symbolic architectural meanings related to rebirth, enlightenment, or the afterlife.

Secrets and Mysteries 

The site holds layers of history, from Pharaonic to Greek, Roman, and early Christian periods. Some of the unrevealed secrets include: 

The full extent and purpose of the underground networks beneath the Serapeum. 

The original religious ceremonies carried out in these subterranean chambers. 

Hidden inscriptions or artifacts that may still be buried deep in the catacombs. 

Many believe this place was more than a temple — it was a symbolic bridge between worlds, possibly used by priests and initiates to explore themes of life, death, and rebirth.

The daughter library at Pompey’s Pillar

An ancient Alexandria, the Great Library of Alexandria was the most famous center of learning in the world. But lesser known is the "Daughter Library", believed to have been housed within the Temple of the Serapeum, right beside what is now called Pompey's Pillar.

What Was the Daughter Library?

The Daughter Library was likely established as a satellite branch of the Great Library of Alexandria. While the main library was located in the royal quarter, the Daughter Library was situated within the Serapeum to extend access to scholars and priests involved in religious and philosophical studies.

According to historical sources, it may have held around 42,000 scrolls, a substantial part of the intellectual wealth of Alexandria. It was designed to mirror the main library, continuing its mission of collecting, preserving, and sharing human knowledge.

Destruction and Mystery

The fate of the Daughter Library is as mysterious as that of the main library. It was likely destroyed during the late Roman period, possibly during religious upheavals when pagan temples were dismantled in favor of Christianity. When the Serapeum was destroyed, the library and its contents would have been lost as well.

Today, nothing physical remains of the Daughter Library — but its legacy lives on in the story of Alexandria as a beacon of ancient wisdom and learning.

Abdel Razek El Wafaay Mosque Alexandria

 Sidi Abdel Qader Al-Wafai Mosque on Nabi Daniel Street, Alexandria

Sidi Abdel Qader Al-Wafai Mosque is located on Nabi Daniel Street in the city of Alexandria and is considered one of the prominent Islamic landmarks in the area. The mosque features an architectural design that reflects the Andalusian style, making it a testament to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city over the centuries.

History and Foundation:

The mosque was built over what is believed to be a former Roman temple, indicating the multi-layered historical significance of ancient Alexandria. This area has been a vital urban center since the city’s foundation, hosting numerous civilizations and cultures throughout its history.

Sheikh Abdel Razeq Al-Wafai:

Sheikh Abdel Razeq Al-Wafai, also known as Sidi Abdel Qader Al-Wafai, was born in Andalusia and belonged to the Umayyad lineage. He devoted his life to teaching and Sufism, guiding people towards the path of truth and teaching the fundamentals of religion. Known for his spiritual retreats and devotion to worship, he earned great respect and reverence among the people.

Continuous Care of the Mosque:

The mosque received attention and patronage from successive rulers of Egypt, who undertook its renovation and upkeep, affirming its religious and historical status in Alexandria.

Location and Significance:

Situated opposite El Nabi Daniel Mosque, this mosque forms part of a culturally and religiously rich area. Nabi Daniel Street is one of the oldest streets in Alexandria, home to many historical and religious landmarks, making it a key destination for visitors and those interested in historical and cultural knowledge.

Sidi Abdel Qader Al-Wafai Mosque, Nabi Daniel Street, Alexandria
Abdel Razeq Al-Wafai Mosque and his shrine are located in the Misr Station area of Alexandria, directly opposite El Nabi Daniel Mosque. The mosque is built in the Andalusian architectural style and was constructed on top of a Roman temple. This area represents ancient Alexandria and the original foundation of the city.

Abdel Razeq Al-Wafai was born in Andalusia and descended from the Umayyad lineage. He dedicated himself to teaching, seclusion, and devotion to God, guiding people toward the path of truth. Over time, the sultans of Egypt continued to show care and attention to his mosque and shrine.