Rhapsody Shore & Land Excursions > Egypt - Alexandria > Panoramic Alexandria & the Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Panoramic Alexandria & the Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Founded by Alexander the Great in 332 B.C. Alexandria is the shining Pearl of the Mediterranean. Immortalizing Alexander's name, the city flourished beyond all expectations, into a prominent cultural, intellectual and economic metropolis, the remains of which are still evident to this day. It was the renowned capital of the Ptolemies and the scene of the most thrilling drama involving Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony and Octavius.

Drive through Mansheya square where the equestrian statue of Mohamed Ali, the founder of modern Egypt greets the visitors to the city. View the Marble Monument dedicated to the Unknown Soldier and continue to the nearby Qait Bey Fort built where the Pharos of Alexandria, one of the seven Wonders of the Ancient World stood. A short photo stop will be made here then continue to the beautiful Abu El Abass Mosque dedicated to the patron Saint of Alexandria's fishermen. Another short stop will take place to view and photograph the mosque and the surrounding architectural buildings.

Your tour continues along the beach front promenade to Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Inaugurated in 2002 is built on the same site where the famous Library of Alexandria was established by Ptolemy in 288 B.C. The Library is designed to be one of the unique and most unusual architectural structures of the modern world, reflecting the architectural genius of the 21st century. An inside visit will take place guided by the Library's own guides. Continue to Montaza Gardens to view the summer palace of the late king Farouk. Set among palm trees, exotic plants and flowers the palace is still being used by the present government for official state visits and banquets. Return to the ship at the conclusion of the visit .

 

 

Special Notes:
Comfortable walking shoes and a sun hat recommended.

Tour is suitable for assisted, physically challenged persons.

Please note Library is opening daily at 11.00 a.m. except on Friday which is at 3.00 pm. Guiding inside the Library is done by the Library's guides and reservations must be made at least 4 days in advance to secure appointment and guide.

Bags and cameras not allowed inside the Library.

Children under 6 years old are not allowed in the Library.

 

Tour Timings:

Tours begin at times suitable for the ship's arrival in port. The breakdown of the excursions is as follows:
00hr00 -> Depart from Alexandria Port
00hr00 -> 00hr15 Drive from Alexandria port to Qait Bey fort
00hr15 -> 00hr45 Photo Stop at the fort & Abu El Abbas Mosque
00hr45 -> 01hr00 Drive time from Mosque to Library
01hr00 -> 02hr15 Visit Bibliotheca Alexandrina
02hr15 -> 02hr45 Drive time from Library to Montaza Gardens
02hr45 -> 03hr30 Visit Montaza Palace Gardens
03hr30 -> 04hr00 Drive time from Montaza to Alexandria port

 

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