Weird & Unusual Attractions in Alexandria, Al Iskandarīyah, Egypt

Alexandria, Egypt, Alexandria, Unique & Fun, Weird & Unusual Attractions

Weird & Unusual Attractions in Alexandria, Al Iskandarīyah, Egypt

1. Catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqafa

An ancient Roman tomb complex with three levels, unique for its blend of Egyptian, Greco-Roman, and early Christian art.
  • Early Christian Art: One of the earliest known examples of Christian burial art in Egypt.
  • Multi-level Design: A rare, multi-layered structure with unique architectural features.
  • Mixed Cultural Influences: Represents the cultural blending that characterized Alexandria during the Roman period.

2. Pompey's Pillar

A massive red Aswan granite column built in honor of Emperor Diocletian, standing alone amidst Alexandria's modern city.
  • Tallest Column in Egypt: The tallest single Roman triumphal column in Egypt, reaching over 28 meters.
  • Remarkable Survival: One of the few remaining structures from Alexandria's ancient Roman period.
  • Symbol of Power: Constructed as a symbol of Emperor Diocletian's power and victory.

3. Alexandria Library Replica

A modern library designed to resemble the ancient Library of Alexandria, showcasing contemporary works.
  • Modern Take on Ancient Wonder: A unique blend of old and new architecture in homage to the original library.
  • Contemporary Collection: A significant contemporary library, housing over a million books and electronic resources.
  • Educational Center: Serves as an educational hub with various seminars, workshops, and cultural events.

4. Museum of Unusual Art

A unique museum featuring surreal and bizarre contemporary art installations.
  • Surreal Art Experience: Provides a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience for art enthusiasts.
  • Rotating Exhibits: Regularly rotates exhibitions to showcase various artists and their works.
  • Interactive Installations: Includes interactive installations that engage visitors in the art-viewing process.

5. Baron Empain Palace

An Art Deco palace built by a Belgian baron for his mistress, featuring unusual and exotic designs.
  • Exotic Design Elements: Features unique design elements inspired by ancient Egypt, Asia, and other cultures.
  • Private Residence turned Museum: Originally a private residence, now open to the public as a museum showcasing its unique architectural style.
  • Art Deco Architecture: One of the best examples of Art Deco architecture in Alexandria.

6. Alexandria National Museum

A museum housed within a restored 15th-century mansion, showcasing Egypt's history and culture.
  • Historical Artifacts: Features an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to ancient Egypt.
  • Rare Artworks: Showcases rare paintings and sculptures from various periods in Egyptian history.
  • Restored Mansion: Set in a beautifully restored, historic mansion that adds to the museum experience.

7. Alexandria Carnival

A lively, annual festival celebrating music, dance, and Egyptian culture with unique parades and performances.
  • Cultural Celebration: An important event for showcasing Alexandria's rich cultural heritage.
  • Unusual Parades: Includes unique, elaborate parades featuring music, dance, and colorful costumes.
  • Community Engagement: Encourages community participation and engagement through various events and activities.

8. Alexandria Pharos Lighthouse Replica

A replica of the ancient Pharos of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Iconic Structure: Represents the iconic lighthouse that once stood as a beacon for seafarers.
  • Modern Marvel: A modern marvel of engineering, standing tall amidst Alexandria's modern cityscape.
  • Historical Significance: Symbolizes the historical importance and legacy of ancient Alexandria.

9. Cleopatra's Needle Obelisk

A 3,200-year-old obelisk originally erected by Pharaoh Thutmose III and later re-erected in Alexandria.
  • Ancient Artifact: One of the oldest known Egyptian artifacts still standing.
  • Symbolic Design: Features hieroglyphs and reliefs that tell the story of ancient Egypt.
  • Historical Importance: Represents the rich cultural heritage and history of ancient Egypt.

10. St. Catherine's Coptic Church

A unique church featuring a blend of Byzantine and Coptic architectural styles with an unusual ceiling design.
  • Mixed Architecture: A rare example of Byzantine and Coptic architecture in Alexandria.
  • Unusual Ceiling Design: Features a ceiling decorated with intricate wooden carvings.
  • Religious Significance: Serves as an important place of worship for the Coptic Christian community in Alexandria.

11. Alexandria's Graffiti Art District

A district filled with vibrant, street art by local and international artists.
  • Artistic Expression: Provides a platform for artistic expression and creativity.
  • Community Engagement: Encourages community involvement in the creation of public art.
  • Urban Renewal: Contributes to urban renewal by transforming abandoned spaces into vibrant, colorful areas.

12. Alexandria's Montazah Gardens

A beautiful palace and gardens complex with stunning sea views, waterfalls, and exotic plants.
  • Royal Palace and Gardens: One of the few remaining royal palaces still open to the public in Egypt.
  • Stunning Scenery: Offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and lush, exotic gardens.
  • Historical Significance: Has historical significance as it was once used by Egypt's royal family.

13. Alexandria's Roman Amphitheater

A partially-excavated amphitheater dating back to the Roman era, offering glimpses into Alexandria's past.
  • Roman Architecture: An excellent example of Roman architecture in Egypt.
  • Partially-Excavated: Only a fraction of the original structure has been unearthed, offering a glimpse into the past.
  • Historical Importance: Represents the importance of Alexandria during the Roman era and its rich cultural heritage.

14. Alexandria's Quarters of Saints

A unique neighborhood with churches dedicated to various saints, showcasing Byzantine and Coptic architectural styles.
  • Mixed Architecture: Features a blend of Byzantine and Coptic architectural styles.
  • Religious Significance: Serves as an important place of worship for the Christian community in Alexandria.
  • Historical Importance: Represents the religious diversity and history of ancient Alexandria.

15. Alexandria's Labyrinthine Old City

A maze-like, historic district with narrow streets, hidden squares, and unique architecture.
  • Historical Architecture: Features a mix of Ottoman, Greek, and European architectural styles.
  • Labyrinthine Layout: Its maze-like layout invites exploration and discovery.
  • Cultural Melting Pot: Offers a glimpse into Alexandria's rich cultural history and diversity.