The Statue of Khedive Ismail in Alexandria Kom el Dikka

The idea of establishing a monument to commemorate Khedive Ismail Pasha arose during & after the historic visit of King Fouad I to Italy in 1927. The "Italian community in Alexandria" wanted/requested to commemorate that visit by establishing a monument in Alexandria. The idea was accepted, and as a result; discussions were held between the Architect "Ernesto Verrucci Bey"; who was the chief architect of the royal palaces in Egypt at that time, and the Italian consulate. They agreed on establishing a monument and a statue of Khedive Ismail as King Fouad I tended to commemorate his father’s memory exploits and achievements. 

By the return of King Fouad I to Egypt, the Italians launched a subscription campaign to collect money for the project and managed to collect 2900 Egyptian pounds. Consequently, Verrucci Bey paid a visit to Italy to choose the appropriate marble for the project. But the actual work on the project started in 1933, as the famous Italian sculptor "Pietro Canonica" was chosen to sculpture the statue, and the architect Ernesto Verrucci was assigned to design the building. 

Pietro Canonica made a statue of bronze representing Ismail standing, wearing the formal suite and turning his head slightly, 8 m height with base. Ernesto Verrucci inspired the building from design of the monument of Vittorio Emanuelle II in Rome which is called “Vittoriano”. 

The building is semicircular in shape with marble columns carrying an arcade, which is surrounding a raised platform, the whole building is facing the sea. The cost of the building and the statue was paid by the Italian community in Alexandria, while the cost of the platform (2900 L.E.) and the lighting system around it (2200 L.E.) was paid by Alexandria Municipality. The project was completed in October 1935 and was covered waiting to be opened. The opening was postponed for many political & death of King Fouad reasons, and then on 5th Dec 1938, the decision was taken to open the project by King Farouk with a big inauguration ceremony, attended by the President of the Italian Senate giving a speech during the inauguration of the monument, and the presence of cabinet ministers, and foreign consuls. 

A monument with that rich history remains unknown for many Egyptians, it was a sign of acknowledgement of the role of Ismail in establishing a modern version of Egypt and a commemoration of the stable friendship between the Egyptian and Italian royal families. In 1965 Ismail Pasha statue was removed from the monument, and since that year it has been used as a remembrance of the Unknown Soldier. And after years of storage, the forgotten statue is currently erected in a small square in Kom El Dikka behind the Roman Theater in Alexandria city.

Kom el-Dikka Alexandria: A Lost Roman City Beneath the Sand

Kom el-Dikka Alexandria

Kom el-Dikka stands as a testament to Alexandria's rich and multifaceted history. From the luxurious villas of the early Roman period to the grand public edifices of the Byzantine era, the site encapsulates the city's architectural and cultural evolution. Ongoing archaeological and conservation efforts continue to unveil the stories embedded in its ruins, ensuring that Kom el-Dikka remains a beacon of historical and educational significance for generations to come.​

Strategically situated in central Alexandria, Kom el-Dikka offers a microcosmic view of the city's urban evolution. The transition from private opulent residences to public communal structures reflects broader socio-economic shifts and urban planning strategies. The site's diverse architectural elements encapsulate the confluence of cultural influences that have shaped Alexandria over the centuries.

Discovering Kom el-Dikka: Alexandria's Archaeological Gem

In the heart of Alexandria, Egypt, lies Kom el-Dikka, an archaeological site that offers a profound glimpse into the city's storied past. Once a bustling urban center, this area has transformed into a treasure trove of ancient remnants, including a Roman theater, bath complexes, auditoria, and the renowned Villa of the Birds. Each structure within Kom el-Dikka narrates a unique story, reflecting the cultural and architectural evolution of Alexandria from the Roman era through the Byzantine period.

Historical Evolution of Kom el-Dikka

Early Roman Period: A Hub of Luxury

During the 1st to 3rd centuries AD, Kom el-Dikka was characterized by opulent residential villas adorned with intricate mosaics. These luxurious homes were indicative of the affluence and artistic sensibilities of Alexandria's elite. The discovery of these villas provides valuable insights into the domestic lifestyles and architectural preferences of the time.​

Transition to Public Architecture

The 4th century marked a significant transformation in Kom el-Dikka's landscape. Private residences gave way to grand public structures, including bath complexes and educational facilities. This shift reflected a broader societal move towards communal urban development, emphasizing public amenities and cultural institutions.​

Architectural Highlights of Kom el-Dikka

The Roman Theater: A Cultural Epicenter

A standout feature of Kom el-Dikka is its Roman theater, a semi-circular structure with marble seating arranged in thirteen tiers. Initially serving as a venue for musical performances and city council meetings, the theater's role evolved over the centuries. Inscriptions and graffiti suggest its association with chariot racing factions, highlighting the diverse entertainment preferences of Alexandrians. The theater's design, incorporating recycled materials from earlier structures, exemplifies the adaptive reuse practices prevalent in ancient construction.​

The Bath Complex: Engineering Marvel of Antiquity

Constructed in the 4th century AD, the bath complex at Kom el-Dikka epitomizes Roman engineering prowess. The facility included various sections such as the apodyterium (changing room), frigidarium (cold bath), tepidarium (warm bath), caldarium (hot bath), and a large swimming pool. These baths were not merely for hygiene but served as social hubs where citizens congregated, reflecting the communal lifestyle of the era. The presence of furnaces and sophisticated water heating systems underscores the technological advancements achieved by Roman architects.

​The Auditoria: Centers of Learning

Adjacent to the theater lies a complex of at least twenty auditoria, believed to have functioned as lecture halls for academic instruction. These structures, with their tiered seating arrangements, could accommodate approximately 500–600 students, highlighting Alexandria's prominence as a center of learning. The auditoria's existence corroborates historical accounts of the city's dedication to education, particularly in fields like rhetoric, philosophy, and medicine.

The Villa of the Birds: A Mosaic Masterpiece

Among Kom el-Dikka's residential remnants, the Villa of the Birds stands out for its exquisite floor mosaics. Dating back to the 1st century AD, the villa derives its name from a mosaic depicting various bird species, including ducks, quails, parrots, and peacocks. These artworks not only showcase the artistic excellence of the period but also provide valuable insights into the domestic aesthetics and daily life of Alexandria's affluent inhabitants. The preservation and display of these mosaics offer a tangible connection to the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Archaeological Excavations and Conservation Efforts

Systematic excavations at Kom el-Dikka commenced in 1960 under the leadership of Professor Kazimierz Michałowski. The collaborative efforts between the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology and the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities have been instrumental in uncovering and preserving the site's treasures. Notably, the conservation of the Villa of the Birds' mosaics, supported by organizations like the American Research Center in Egypt and USAID, has ensured that these artistic marvels are protected for future generations. The establishment of an archaeological park allows visitors to explore and appreciate the site's historical significance.

Mostafa Kamel Bay Sidi Gaber Alexandria Governorate

Mostafa Kamel Bay Sidi Gaber Alexandria 

Sidi Gaber is a neighbourhood in Alexandria, Egypt. The interior section of the neighborhood contains the Sidi Gaber railway station, the main rail entry point to Alexandria for most travelers.

Alexandria, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean," is a captivating blend of ancient wonders and modern vibrancy. Explore the charming neighborhoods of Montaza and Maamoura, soak in the lively atmosphere at the vibrant Corniche, and delve into history at iconic landmarks like the Citadel of Qaitbay and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. With its rich heritage, breathtaking views, and warm Mediterranean hospitality, there's no doubting Alexandria's allure. To make the most of your stay, here's a list of the best hotels in this enchanting city.

Exploring the Vibrant Neighborhood of Mostafa Kamel in Sidi Gaber Alexandria

Nestled in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt, the Mostafa Kamel neighborhood in Sidi Gaber stands as a testament to the city's rich history and dynamic present. This area seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern amenities, offering residents and visitors a unique experience. From historical landmarks to bustling markets, Mostafa Kamel is a microcosm of Alexandria's diverse tapestry.​

The Historical Significance of Mostafa Kamel 

The neighborhood derives its name from Mostafa Kamel, a prominent Egyptian nationalist leader who played a pivotal role in advocating for Egypt's independence in the early 20th century. His legacy is deeply ingrained in the area, symbolizing the spirit of patriotism and resilience that characterizes the community.

Strategically located in the Sidi Gaber district, Mostafa Kamel serves as a central hub connecting various parts of Alexandria. Its proximity to major transportation routes makes it easily accessible, enhancing its appeal as a residential and commercial hotspot.

The architectural fabric of Mostafa Kamel is a harmonious blend of colonial-era buildings and contemporary structures. Walking through its streets, one can observe the evolution of architectural styles that narrate the city's historical journey.

Mostafa Kamel  Healthcare Facilities 

The neighborhood boasts reputable healthcare centers, including the Mostafa Kamel Hospital for Armed Forces. This facility provides comprehensive medical services and is known for its specialized departments and state-of-the-art equipment.

Mostafa Kamel  Commercial Hubs and Shopping 

Residents and visitors can indulge in a variety of shopping experiences, from traditional markets offering local goods to modern retail outlets. The presence of stores like Mobaco Cottons adds to the area's commercial diversity.

Culinary Delights 

The gastronomic scene in Mostafa Kamel is a reflection of Alexandria's culinary diversity. Numerous cafes and restaurants serve both traditional Egyptian dishes and international cuisines, catering to a wide range of palates.

Residential Appeal 

The neighborhood's residential areas are characterized by a mix of historic homes and modern apartments. This blend provides housing options that cater to diverse preferences and budgets.​

Transportation and Connectivity 

Mostafa Kamel's strategic location ensures excellent connectivity through public transportation systems, including buses and trams. This accessibility facilitates easy commutes to other parts of Alexandria.

Community and Lifestyle 

The community in Mostafa Kamel is known for its warmth and hospitality. Regular cultural events and festivals foster a strong sense of belonging and celebrate the area's rich heritage.​

Efforts towards sustainability are evident in the neighborhood's green spaces and community-led environmental programs. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and promote eco-friendly practices.​

Real Estate Trends 

The real estate market in Mostafa Kamel has seen steady growth, with property values reflecting the area's desirability. Investors and homebuyers are drawn to its blend of historical charm and modern amenities.

Religious Sites 

The area is home to various mosques and churches, reflecting the city's religious diversity and promoting interfaith harmony.

Nightlife and Entertainment Evenings in Mostafa Kamel come alive with entertainment options ranging from theaters showcasing local performances to cafes hosting live music.​

Tourism and Hospitality 

With its array of hotels and guesthouses, Mostafa Kamel accommodates tourists seeking to explore Alexandria's rich history and vibrant culture.

The Apis Bull statue Graeco Roman Museum of Alexandria

The Apis Bull Graeco Roman Museum of Alexandria was well known during the Greco-Roman in Egypt, especially the bull Apis. Memphis was his main cult center, where his cult was associated with the chief god Ptah, and a priest responsible for both cults. Furthermore, Memphis also contains subterranean galleries for the dead mummified bulls as Osir-Apis. The Ptolemies paid a great attention to the cult of Apis and shared the coronation of the New Apis, and the funeral of the dead one. They integrated the cult of Serapis, the chief god of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, as the Hellenization form of the Egyptian Osirified Apis bull. Moreover, The Romans paid respect to the cult of Apis inside Egypt, and outside either.

Apis’s prominence during the Greco-Roman period added him new aspects in both funeral and burial customs. The research tries to identify the new attributes of Apis in the Greco-Roman tombs as a funerary god, besides, other roles initiated from his integration with other gods. Apis was a main figure not only in the decorated Greco-Roman tombs of Egypt, but also upon the stelae, the Mummy Coffins and Mummy Cartonage of Egypt. He appeared as a burial god; equated with Osiris and Dionysos. His association with Serapis in the Hellenistic Egypt represented him as the protector of the kingship of Egypt. Ptolemaic and Roman rulers depicted themselves under his respect, and either spread to the Hellenistic world with Isis as her husband.

In addition, his cult appeared in the Roman Isaeums in Rome, and the other Hellenistic temples consecrated for her with the Egyptian figure as a bull. Apis was the carrier of the deceased in the netherworld, and he appeared in the judgment’s court of the deceased. He either performed the role of Isis and Nephthys as the deceased’s guardians in his tomb, as they did with Osiris, and as protectors of the fetish of Abydos. The statue is about 1.90 metres long, carved in basalt and dated to the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd Century CE. It was discovered to the west of Pompey's Pillar in Alexandria.

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa Alexandria

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is a historical archaeological site located in Alexandria, Egypt, and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.

The necropolis consists of a series of Alexandrian tombs, statues and archaeological objects of the Pharaonic funerary cult with Hellenistic and early Imperial Roman influences. Due to the time period, many of the features of the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa merge Roman, Greek and Egyptian cultural points; some statues are Egyptian in style, yet bear Roman clothes and hair style whilst other features share a similar style. 

A circular staircase, which was often used to transport deceased bodies down the middle of it, leads down into the tombs that were tunneled into the bedrock during the age of the Antonine emperors (2nd century CE).

The facility was then used as a burial chamber from the 2nd century to the 4th century, before being rediscovered in 1900 when a donkey (named Howard Carteeeore) accidentally fell into the access shaft. To date, three sarcophagi have been found, along with other human and animal remains which were added later. It is believed that the catacombs were only intended for a single family, but it is unclear why the site was expanded in order to house numerous other individuals.

Another feature of the catacombs is the Hall of Caracalla, which contains the bones of horses which were the tombs created for the horses of the emperor Caracalla in 215 CE.

Tigran Tomb Alexandia

The Main Tomb at Kom el-Shoqafa( the Tigrane Tomb) presents the most convincing case for active worship of Isis and her mysteries in Alexandria. In comparison to the scale of the Great Catacomb at Kom el-Shoqafa, the Tigrane Tomb, which was discovered in 1952 in the eastern necropolis near the tombs at Moustapha Pasha, appears exceedingly modest. 

it consisted of one room fitted with loculi and another in the form of a triclinium-shaped burial chamber, but only the burial chamber was removed from the earth. 

The triclinium shapeA triclinium (plural: triclinia) is a formal dining room in a Roman building. The word is adopted from the Greek triklinion (τρικλίνιον)—from tri- (τρι-), "three", and klinē (κλίνη), a sort of couch or rather chaise longue. of the burial chamber is formed, as it is in the Main Tomb at Kom el-Shoqafa and other Roman-period tombs in Alexandria, by the arrangement of three niches – in its case arcosolia The word is from Latin arcus, "arch", and solium, "throne" (literally: "place of state") or post-classical "sarcophagus".– created by the sarcophagi carved from the living rock.

Catacombs

The catacombs were named Kom El Shoqafa, meaning Mound of Shards, because the area used to contain a mound of shards of terra cotta which mostly consisted of jars and objects made of clay. These objects were left by those visiting the tombs, who would bring food and wine for their consumption during the visit. However, they did not wish to carry these containers home from this place of death, so they would break them. At the time of the discovery, heaps of these broken plates were found.

The catacombs lie beneath the western necropolis of Alexandria and consist of three levels cut through solid rock, the third level was completely underwater until recent restorations. The catacombs have a six-pillared central shaft which opens off the vestibule. On the left is a triclinium, a funeral banquet hall where friends and family gathered on stone couches covered with cushions, both at the time of burial and also on future commemorative visits.

Principal tomb chamber

At the front of the tomb chamber there is a temple-like façade consisting of two columns topped by papyrus, lotus, and acanthus leaves of ancient Egypt and supporting an architrave with a relief of a central winged sun-disk flanked by Horus falcons. A carved Agathodaemon in the form of a snake is flanking both sides of the entrance to the inner tomb. Each snake wears a Roman Caduceus and a Greek Thyrsus as well as the Egyptian Pschent and is topped by a shield showing a Medusa.

Figures of a man and a woman are carved into the wall. The man's body has a stiff hieratic pose typical of Ancient Egyptian sculpture, with the head carved in the lifelike manner of the classic Hellenes. The woman's figure is also rigidly posed but bears the Roman hairstyle.

There are three huge stone sarcophagi with non-removable covers along the sides of the chamber. It's assumed that bodies were inserted in them from behind, using a passageway which runs around the outside of the funeral chamber. There is a hallway with 91 inch deep walls in the central tomb chamber, with carved recesses, each providing burial space for three mummies. 

The sarcophagi are decorated with garlands and heads of Greek mythology gods. Each sarcophagus has associated a relief panel. The central panel shows the jackal-headed Anubis wearing Roman soldier garb, who mummifies a body lying on a lion bed. Below the bed are three canopic jars. The lateral panels show the Apis-bull receiving a gift.

People also ask FAQ

Why was the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa built? 

Located in Alexandria, Egypt, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are an ancient burial site that was built under Roman rule in the 2nd Century AD. They were initially intended to be used by just one wealthy family, but later expanded to include more families and individuals.

What is found in the great tomb of Kom El Shoqafa?

A carved Agathodaemon in the form of a snake is flanking both sides of the entrance to the inner tomb. Each snake wears a Roman Caduceus and a Greek Thyrsus as well as the Egyptian Pschent and is topped by a shield showing a Medusa. Figures of a man and a woman are carved into the wall. 

How deep are the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa? 

The catacombs consist of three tiers of tombs and chambers cut into bedrock to a depth of 35m (the bottom level is flooded and inaccessible).

Can you visit the catacombs in Alexandria?

There are some tombs and old structures that can be seen as you enter the site. To see the catacombs, you need to descend a spiral staircase. The skeletal remains have been cleared so mainly a few statues and a labyrinth of corridors with empty holes in the walls are what can be seen.

Coin Collection Graeco Roman Museum Alexandria

Coin Collection Graeco Roman Museum Alexandria 

Catalogue of the Roman Provincial Coins from the Alexandrian Mint in the Graeco-Roman Museum in Alexandria' is the result of a long-term Egyptian-Swiss-German collaboration. 

It contains 1655 coins of the Roman emperors Galba, Otho, Vitellius, the Flavian emperors, Nerva and Trajan (AD 68- AD 117). 

As the most prolific provincial coinage of the Roman Empire, the Alexandrian coins document extensively the portraits of the Roman emperors, and convey a rich choice of reverse representations, inscriptions, and dates. 

Since its foundation in 1892, the Graeco-Roman Museum in Alexandria receives and keeps a considerable part of the numismatic discoveries from archaeological excavations and from accidental finds from Egypt.

In Egypt Roman coinage was based until AD 296 on the Ptolemaic system. The first issues are some copper based coins. Regular production started in AD 20 with a tetradrachma. Most of the coins in Egypt were struck at the main mint in Alexandria.

As with many Roman provincial coins, the obverse usually depicts the portrait of the emperor or members of his family. The legends are in Greek. The reverses are varied and offer many types only known from Egypt. Some depict gods such as Sarapis and Isis. 

Personifications of the virtues such as Nile on a crocodile or Nike ('Victory' in Greek) holding a palm branch are also common. The representations on coins seldom reflect political or other current events. 

Issues for the Egyptian nomes can be found honouring the administrative provinces and are typical of the second century AD in the Antonine Period (AD 138 - 180).

Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria

What is the story of the Citadel of Qaitbay? 

Fort Qaitbay Alexandria  Egypt is one of the most important forts on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The Mamluk sultan al-Ashraf Abu al-Nasr Qaitbay built it between 882 AH/ 1477 AD and 884/ 1479 AD over the ruins of Alexandria’s Lighthouse. It served as Alexandria’defence against naval attacks.

Qaitbay Citadel was made of limestone and spanned an area of approximately 17550 m2. An outer wall plotted with defence towers surrounds the building in Alexandria.

An inner wall surrounds the citadel’s courtyard and includes a number of rooms some of them used as barracks and others for storage.

The citadel’s entrance leads to the courtyard where we find the main tower located in the northwest. It consists of a massive three-floored square fort. Its four corners are occupied by half-circular towers that carry protruding balconies for the defence of the city. A tank near the tower supplied soldiers and their horses with water.

Qaitbay citadel drew the attention of rulers throughout the ages, on account of its strategic location. The building was also enlarged and subject to other conservation operations in 2003.

How was the Citadel of Qaitbay destroyed? 

The Citadel retained the interest of Mohammed Ali's successors until the year 1882 when the Orabi Revolt took place. The British fleet bombarded Alexandria on 11 July 1882 and damaged a large part of the city, especially in the area of the Citadel. This attack cracked the fortress, causing great damage. The north and western facades were severely damaged as a result of cannon explosions, aimed directly at the structure. The western facade was completely destroyed, leaving large gaps in it.

The citadel continued to be an important strategic location of Muhammad Ali's successors until AH 1299 / AD 1882, when the Orabi Revolt took place in Egypt and the British navy bombarded the city of Alexandria, destroying its forts, damaging its defences and causing extensive damage and destruction to the citadel itself. The citadel was restored in 1982, and the High Council for Antiquities undertook the complete restoration of it in 2005.

How much does it cost to go to the Citadel of Qaitbay? 

The Citadel of Qaitbay (or the Fort of Qaitbay; Arabic: قلعة قايتباي) is a 15th-century defensive fortress located on the Mediterranean sea coast, in Alexandria, Egypt. It was built from 1477 to 1479 AD (882–884 AH) by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay.[2] The Citadel is situated on the eastern side of the northern tip of Pharos Island at the mouth of the Eastern Harbour.

How old is the Citadel of Qaitbay?

The Citadel of Qaitbay It was built from 1477 to 1479 AD (882–884 AH) by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa'it Bay.