A Roman Influence On Alexandria

OVERVIEW

Understand the Roman Empire’s profound influence on ancient Egypt during this tour of Alexandria’s catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman Theater. Descend into the intriguing Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Alexandria’s largest Roman cemetery, where more than 300 souls were interred, and discover splendid sculptures and reliefs of Egyptian gods crafted in a Roman style. Wonder at towering Pompey’s Pillar, an astounding 82-foot-tall red Aswan granite column constructed to honor the powerful emperor Diocletian and the largest Roman triumphal monolith outside the imperial capitals of Rome and Constantinople. You’ll learn it was erroneously named after the Roman general Pompey, who was thought to have been buried here after his murder on the orders of Egypt’s King Ptolemy. Applaud the captivating 4th-century Roman amphitheater, unearthed in 1960, where up to 800 spectators thrilled to musical performances, and admire its well-preserved white marble steps and mosaic flooring. You’ll uncover the imprint of the Roman Empire on enthralling Alexandria, a city at the crossroads of two powerful ancient civilizations.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore three tiers of burial chambers from the 2nd century BC in the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
• Survey intriguing depictions of Egyptian gods in underground chambers where over 300 persons were interred.
• Gaze at awe-inspiring Pompey’s Pillar, a soaring granite monument to the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
• See the magnificent 4th-century Roman amphitheater, which seated around 800 spectators.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.