Princess Aziza Fahmy's Palace Alexandria Governorate

 Discover Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace in San Stefano, Alexandria – history, architecture, location, and why this hidden gem matters.

Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace in San Stefano, El Raml 1, Alexandria Governorate is one of Egypt’s most fascinating yet lesser-known architectural treasures. Built in the early 20th century, this grand palace blends European design influences with Egyptian aristocratic heritage. While many visitors to Alexandria rush to Montaza Palace or the Library of Alexandria, few realize that tucked near San Stefano stands a palace with equally rich stories of royalty, art, and history.

What Is Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace?

Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace is a historic royal residence in San Stefano, Alexandria, built in the early 20th century for Princess Aziza Fahmy, a member of Egypt’s royal family. It showcases European architectural styles and today stands as a cultural landmark in the Alexandria Governorate.

The palace represents the elegance of Alexandria’s aristocratic past and serves as a living reminder of Egypt’s royal connections to Europe.

Where Is Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace Located?

The palace is located in San Stefano, El Raml 1, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt, just steps away from the famous San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

• Exact location: San Stefano district, eastern Alexandria.

• Nearby landmarks: San Stefano Grand Plaza, Stanley Bridge, Montaza Palace, and the Royal Jewelry Museum.
  

• Accessibility: Easily reached by car, taxi, or Alexandria’s tram network.

History of Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace

Who Was Princess Aziza Fahmy?

Princess Aziza Fahmy (1886–1962) was a prominent figure in Egypt’s aristocracy, belonging to the influential Fahmy family that maintained close ties with the ruling dynasty. Her life reflected the blend of Egyptian traditions with European influences that characterized Alexandria during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

When Was the Palace Built?

The palace was constructed in the early 20th century (circa 1920s), during a time when Alexandria was a cosmopolitan hub attracting royalty, merchants, and European architects.

The Fahmy family commissioned the palace as both a residence and a cultural statement, showcasing their prestige in Alexandria society.

Architectural Style of the Palace

Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace features a neo-classical European design, with ornate facades, marble staircases, and lush gardens, reflecting Alexandria’s cosmopolitan character.

Key Architectural Features

• European influences: Italian marble, French windows, ornate ironwork.
  
  

• Egyptian touches: High ceilings for ventilation, local stonework.
  
  

• Layout: Spacious halls, multiple salons, and balconies overlooking the Mediterranean.
  

  How Does It Compare to Other Palaces in Alexandria?

  Unlike the more famous Montaza Palace, which has Ottoman influences, or the Royal Jewelry Museum’s palace with its baroque flair, Aziza Fahmy’s Palace is a subtle blend of European luxury and Alexandrian seaside charm.

Why Is Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace Important?

The palace is important for its historical, cultural, and architectural value, representing Alexandria’s aristocratic past and the city’s role as a Mediterranean cultural crossroads.

Cultural Significance

• A symbol of Egypt’s royal past.
  

• Reflection of Alexandria’s cosmopolitan society.
  

• Connection to the city’s modern cultural identity.

Historical Value

The palace tells the story of Egypt’s early 20th-century elite, their lifestyles, and their architectural choices in an era of transformation.

Visiting Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace

Is the Palace Open to the Public?

Currently, public access is limited. Some sections are occasionally used for cultural or governmental purposes. Unlike Montaza or Ras El Tin Palace, Aziza Fahmy’s Palace is not always open for daily tours.

Tips for Visitors

• Check with Alexandria Governorate’s cultural authorities before planning a visit.
  

• Nearby Alexandria attractions like San Stefano Grand Plaza, Stanley Bridge, and Montaza are always open.
  

• The palace’s exterior can still be admired from the outside and makes for stunning photography.
  

  How to Get to Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace

  The palace is in San Stefano, Alexandria, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Alexandria and easily accessible by car, Uber, or the city’s historic tram system.

  Transport Options

  • By Car/Taxi: Convenient, especially from Alexandria Corniche.

  • By Tram: El Raml line towards San Stefano.
    

  • By Train: From Cairo, then taxi or tram within Alexandria.

  • By upper or kareem private trip .

Nearby Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

If you’re visiting the palace, here are must-see nearby landmarks:

• San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall – luxury shopping and dining.
  

• Royal Jewelry Museum – another royal residence turned museum.
  

• Stanley Bridge – iconic modern bridge over the Mediterranean.
  

• Montaza Palace Gardens – expansive royal gardens and seaside views.
  

Local Guide: Best Things to Do Around San Stefano

• Stroll the Corniche for sunset views.
  

• Dine in seafood restaurants nearby.
  

• Explore Alexandria’s royal heritage at Montaza and Ras El Tin Palaces.
  

• Visit cultural sites like Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
  

Preservation and Future of the Palace

While the palace remains a landmark, ongoing conservation efforts are needed to preserve its structure and legacy for future generations.

The Alexandria Governorate and heritage organizations are working on plans to maintain the palace, though it has not yet received the same restoration attention as Montaza Palace.

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