Alexandria is a popular beach destination. Blending cosmopolitan surroundings with pristine beaches and waters, exploring Alexandria's beaches is a must do. The Corniche, the area in Alexandria where the beaches lie, is full of tourist accommodations. Rent umbrellas, beach chairs, jet skis and even reserve parasailing trips. Along with taking in the sun's rays, eating the fresh seafood at the many beach-side restaurants is one of the most popular activities in Alexandria.
Having such a vast history, it is no wonder that Alexandria boasts many ancient and significant landmarks. After rule by the Greeks, Alexandria became one of the major cities of the Roman Empire. A feature of Roman cities is the presence of an amphitheatre. The Roman Amphitheatre in Alexandria is the only one in Egypt. The ancient entertainment venue provides tourists a view into life during the Roman Empire. The Pompeii Pillar is another important ancient landmark. Built between 280-305 A.D. as a memorial to Emperor Diocletian's saving of the city from famine, Pompeii's Pillar is the tallest memorial pillar in Egypt. The column towers over 100 ft., and is constructed out of one piece of red granite. The 15th century castle named the Qaitbay Citadel is an important Alexandria landmark. It became one of the most powerful fortifications in Egypt, and after earthquake damage, the castle was used as a watchtower. Now tourists have the opportunity to tour this megalithic structure.
Apart from the ancient, Alexandria boasts modern tourist attractions. Alexandria once contained the ancient world's most expansive library; aptly named The Library of Alexandria, this library was a jewel of Egypt until its destruction. Now, the New Library of Alexandria has replaced that jewel. The free of charge library contains more than a million books, online databases, research centers and more. The three museums built in the library provide artifacts ranging from antiquities to manuscripts and a science history division. Encased in a modern architectural building, the library is an important attraction for tourists.
The Romans built up Alexandria during their reign; however, earthquakes damaged some of the sites and submerged them in the sea. Alexandria allows tourists to dive and explore these hidden secrets of ancient Alexandria. Many artifacts have been taken out and put in museums, but many remain. Tourists are allowed to find and take home artifacts found at the dive site as long as the artifacts are not significant to archaeological studies.
