Can you still visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria?

Can you still visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria?

The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was a towering structure that stood on the island of Pharos in the harbor of Alexandria, Egypt. This paper aims to provide a brief history of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, its significance, and whether it is possible to visit it today.

History of the Lighthouse of Alexandria

Built during the reign of Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander the Great’s generals, in the 3rd century BCE. Designed by the Greek architect Sostratus of Cnidus and completed around 280 BCE.

Standing at a height of approximately 120 meters and made of white marble. Furthermore, designed with three levels. With the lowest being a square-shaped base. The middle a cylindrical tower, and the top level featuring a mirror that reflected sunlight during the day and a fire at night.

It is said that the light from the lighthouse could become seen up to 50 kilometers away.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria played a crucial role in the ancient world as a navigational aid for sailors entering the harbor of Alexandria. It was also a symbol of the city’s wealth and power, as it was one of the tallest structures in the world at the time of its construction.

The lighthouse survived for centuries, even after the decline of the Roman Empire. However, in the 14th century CE, a series of earthquakes caused significant damage to the structure. Eventually destroying the structure. Today, all that remains of the Lighthouse of Alexandria is its foundation, submerged under the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Visiting the Lighthouse of Alexandria

Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria today. Destroyed over 700 years ago, and all that remains is its foundation, which is located underwater.

However, visitors to Alexandria can still visit several sites related to the Lighthouse of Alexandria’s history. The Alexandria National Museum features a collection of artifacts related to the lighthouse’s construction and use, including ancient coins and pottery. The Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the lighthouse’s ruins, also offers visitors a glimpse into the structure’s history.

Conclusion

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was one of the most significant structures in the ancient world. Its construction marked a significant achievement in architectural and engineering technology, and it played a crucial role in the navigation of ships entering the harbor of Alexandria. Although it is not possible to visit the lighthouse today, its legacy lives on in the many artifacts and ruins still available in Alexandria.

Can you still visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria?