# Alexandria, Egypt – Top Sights and Local Impressions

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/africa/egypt-what-did-we-see-in-alexandria/
- Published: 2024-10-07T01:08:23+02:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/afryka/egipt-co-zobaczylismy-w-aleksandrii/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

Alexandria – with its Mediterranean climate and rich history – had much in store
for us, but our visit was not without surprises. As it happens in Egypt, Jadzia 
faced the so-called Pharaoh’s Revenge, which affected our sightseeing plan. Nevertheless,
we discovered fascinating corners that allowed us to feel the real atmosphere of
Alexandria. Not everything went according to plan, and we had to postpone many of
the places that the guidebooks recommend, but we have some impressions that we are
happy to share.

If you’d like to learn more about our adventures in Cairo and what we were able 
to see during our Egypt trip, be sure to check out the rest of our blog articles!

_👉  _[Take a look here](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/africa/egypt-exploring-cairo-and-alexandria-independently-no-travel-agency-needed/)
to read our coverage of our trip to **Egypt in March 2024**.

_👉 _ [Take a look here](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/africa/egypt-what-did-we-see-in-cairo/)
to find out – what we saw** in Cairo**!

We invite you to read and discover more corners of Egypt with us!

## How did we arrive in Alexandria?

We arrived in Alexandria by car, taking the **Tanta – Alexandria** road, which is
unfortunately in very poor condition. Although it is a free route, the quality of
the pavement leaves much to be desired. Even though such a route is convenient from
the perspective of no tolls, one would expect some minimum standard to be maintained.
The line between comfort and annoyance due to the condition of the roads was definitely
crossed here. The condition of the road made the trip more challenging, but still
allowed us to reach our destination without much expense.

## Stanley Bridge

**The Stanley Bridge** in Alexandria was officially opened in 2001 and is the first
bridge in Egypt to be built over the sea. It crosses over Stanley Bay, connecting
the city’s key thoroughfares and serving as one of Alexandria’s main tourist attractions.

The bridge is 400 meters long and features elegant towers inspired by classical 
architecture. Its location offers not only a functional connection, but also beautiful
views of the Mediterranean Sea.

 [ ⌊Sea view at Stanley Bridge in Alexandria, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Stanley Bridge in Alexandria, Egypt, overlooking a rocky seaside bay and city skyline⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Egypt, Alexandria Stanley Bridge: tall white stone archway tower with street lamps and a walkway by the sea⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-stanley-bridge.jpg)

## Alexandria Bibliotheca

During our visit to Alexandria, although we had planned to visit the **Alexandria
Bibliotheca**, we were unable to go inside. According to the information, it was
supposed to be open, but the security guards showed us by signaling that unfortunately
we had to cancel our visit.

However, we managed to enjoy the building from the outside. Its modern architecture
alludes to the heritage of the ancient library whose site it occupies. The new Library
of Alexandria symbolizes the revival of the spirit of knowledge and learning for
which this place was famous in antiquity. When we return to Alexandria, with plans
to visit the rest of Egypt, we’ll be sure to take a look at the library to see its
interior and full potential.

_👉  For more information, visit the official website – [click here](https://www.bibalex.org/)._

 [ ⌊Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, with a curved stone facade under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Alexandria Bibliotheca mosaic mural with the name Alexandria in colorful tiles⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-004.jpg)

## Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial and Saad Zaghloul

**Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial **and the **Saad Zaghloul Monument**
are relatively close to each other, which is why we included them in one section
of our coverage. Both of these sites are located in the central part of Alexandria
and are important historical points on the city map.

**Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial **was built to honor Egyptian sailors
who died in the service of their homeland. Its simple yet elegant style, combined
with the view of the Mediterranean Sea, creates an atmosphere full of thoughtfulness
and emotion. It is a key symbol of remembrance of war casualties, especially those
who died in naval battles.

A short distance away is the **Monument to Saad Zaghloul,** one of the most important
leaders of the independence movement in Egypt. He played a key role in the struggle
for Egypt’s independence from British rule. The monument pays tribute to his contribution
to the country’s quest for sovereignty and symbolizes national pride and Egypt’s
quest for freedom.

 [ ⌊Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial in Egypt, a white stone colonnade under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Saad Zaghloul Statue in Alexandria, Egypt, surrounded by palm trees and historic buildings⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Anfushi Tombs

**The Anfushi Tombs** are one of the most interesting archaeological sites in Alexandria,
dating between the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC. They are a valuable example of ancient
funerary traditions from the Ptolemaic era. Carved in limestone, they were originally
covered with mural paintings depicting Egyptian and Greek motifs, reflecting the
multicultural nature of Alexandria at that time.

However, the current state of the tombs raises some questions. You can see from 
the photos that many of the architectural elements and the area around them are 
badly neglected. The damaged buildings, scratched walls and surrounding greenery
give the impression of an abandoned site that is not regularly maintained. Although
the site itself is an important element of archaeological heritage, its current 
appearance indicates the need for urgent conservation work. The poorly maintained
surroundings may unfortunately overshadow its historical significance and discourage
visitors.

Pro tip: It is worth remembering that payment for entrance to the tombs is only 
possible in cash, which may surprise some tourists. If you’re planning a visit, 
it’s a good idea to prepare a sufficient amount in local currency. You can easily
withdraw it at ATMs – there are enough of them in Alexandria.

 [ ⌊Entrance to the Tombs of Anfouchy in Alexandria, Egypt, with a sign and open gate.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Alexandria Anfushi Tombs ruins with stone fragments, palms, and nearby apartment buildings under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Interior chamber of the Alexandria Anfushi Tombs in Egypt, with arched ceiling and worn wall carvings⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Anfushi Tombs in Alexandria, Egypt, showing a stone burial chamber with carved wall decorations.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Woman posing inside the Alexandria Anfushi Tombs in Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Anfushi Tombs ruins in Alexandria, Egypt, with stone walls, palm trees, and apartment buildings nearby⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The **Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa** is one of Alexandria’s most fascinating sites,
blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles. Built in the 2nd century
AD, the catacombs served as an underground necropolis, showcasing Alexandria’s multiculturalism
during the Roman period.

Visitors can explore the circular staircase, which leads to deeper chambers. Inside,
you’ll find detailed reliefs that mix Egyptian religious symbols with Greco-Roman
mythology. These unique features illustrate how these cultures influenced one another.

For added convenience, visitors can now pay for entry using a credit card, making
it easier for tourists who don’t carry cash.

 [ ⌊Kom el Shoqafa catacombs in Alexandria, Egypt, with a weathered ancient stone tomb facade⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Interior of the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria, Egypt, with carved stone chambers and columns.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Kom el Shoqafa catacombs in Alexandria, Egypt, with a large stone sarcophagus and carved columns⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Carved reliefs inside the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria, Egypt.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-016-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Statue niche at Alexandria Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-017-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Interior corridor of the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-018-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Painted tomb niche at the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria, Egypt.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-020-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Inside the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria, Egypt, showing carved stone burial niches.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-019-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## “Funfair” next to Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas mosque

Next to the **Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas** mosque, we found an amusement park that 
appeared abandoned and neglected. Most of the attractions were in terrible condition,
with damaged merry-go-rounds, scratched paint on figures, and equipment that seemed
unused for a long time. The photos show faded, rusted structures, resembling more
an abandoned funfair in Pripyat, Ukraine, than a functioning entertainment venue.

Despite the colorful attractions, this place feels more like a symbol of neglect
and poverty than a space for fun. It reflects the reality many people in Egypt face
outside tourist areas, where the standard of living is often much lower. It is a
sobering side of travel, showing that beyond famous monuments lies everyday life,
which is not always as vibrant as the images seen in travel brochures.

 [ ⌊Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque in Alexandria, Egypt, with colorful children’s rides in front⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-041-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque courtyard with colorful children’s rides in Alexandria, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-042-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Colorful horse ride at Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque in Alexandria, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-043-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Street scene near Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque in Alexandria, Egypt, with amusement rides and apartment buildings.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-044.jpg)

 [ ⌊Colorful carousel rides near Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque in Alexandria, Egypt.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-045-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Street market near Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque in Alexandria, Egypt, with colorful rides and tall apartment buildings⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-046-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas Mosque in Alexandria beside a small Ferris wheel and palm trees⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-alexandria-047-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Summary

During our visit to Alexandria, we experienced a mix of beauty and harsh reality.
The funfair next to the **Sidi Morsi Abu al-Abbas** mosque was meant to be an attraction
for children. However, it highlights the scale of problems facing Egypt. The dilapidated
carousels and rundown residential buildings around it reflect the poverty that many
residents endure. Our impressions of Alexandria reveal that beyond the famous tourist
sites, daily life in Egypt often contrasts sharply with the idealized images seen
in guidebooks.

This experience makes one reflect on the social inequalities that are still evident
in this fascinating country.