Sunshine, culture and ancient history in Egypt’s Mediterranean pearl

Local Knowledge

Ahmed Zaki Engineering Student
The Qaitbay Citadel was built on the site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was built in the 15th century using some of the materials from the original lighthouse. The Citadel is right on the waterfront and looks absolutely beautiful.

Top Tables

Byblos
The super-luxurious Four Seasons Alexandria opened in the summer of 2007 and its flagship restaurant, Byblos, offers contemporary Lebanese-French cooking and a wonderful view of the Mediterranean. Expect the usual Four Seasons opulence combined with the finest ingredients. Remember to remove your sandals – the dress code is strictly smart. The Four Seasons Alexandria at San Stefano, +20 3 469 0141

Cap D’Or
Cap D’Or is one of the few survivors of Alexandria’s Silver Age, when Egypt’s Mediterranean port was a thriving cosmopolitan centre of world trade and intrigue. Every inch of wall-space is covered with old photos, pictures and posters of places and products long since vanished. The serving counter is 100% zinc and the small seating area tightly packed. There’s an emphasis on simple mezze and local seafood – try the garlicky prawns in batter. 4 Adib St, +20 3 483 5177

At Your Leisure

Bibliotecha Alexandrina
The Bibliotecha is a must-see. Though less than a decade old, this spectacular building has done more to put Alexandria back on the map than any other initiative. The giant discus-like structure, tilted and partly below street level, stands magnificently down the great sweep of the Corniche, on the city’s Eastern Harbour. The library is host to an exhibition on ancient Alexandria, and regularly hosts cultural and scientific events. Chatby, +20 3 483 9999, www.bibalex.org

Talking Point

Youssef Chahine
One of Alexandria’s most famous sons, the critically acclaimed film director Youssef Chahine, passed away on 27 July. He was born in Alexandria in 1926 and studied at the local university before moving to California to train as an actor. After returning home he directed over 40 acclaimed films, including Cairo Station, An Egyptian Story and the first part of his Alexandrian quartet, Alexandria… Why?

Don’t Miss This

Alexheadbangers IV
Ready to rock? The snappily titled Alexheadbangers IV, which takes places at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina on 3 October, is the fourth instalment of a showcase for rock, punk and metal bands who like to keep it loud. Contact the Bibliotheca for tickets, which are priced at EGP30.

Andrea Bocelli
Exciting news for Alexandria’s opera fans – one of the world’s most famous tenors, Italian Andrea Bocelli, is scheduled to perform at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina on 11 October. The 60 million album-selling singer sang at Pavarotti’s funeral, has duetted with Christina Aguilera and performed for the Pope, the Queen and lame duck president, George W Bush.