Founding of Alexandria: What Happened
In 331 BC, Alexander the Great founded the city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, west of the Nile Delta. Egypt had surrendered to him without a fight, and the Egyptians welcomed him as a liberator from Persian rule. Alexander chose a strip of land between the sea and Lake Mareotis, with the island of Pharos offshore providing a natural harbor. According to legend, when there was no chalk to mark out the city walls, the builders used barley flour, which birds came and ate, and seers interpreted this as a sign that the city would feed many peoples. The architect Dinocrates designed the city on a grid plan. Alexander left soon after and never saw it completed, but after his death his body was eventually brought there for burial. Under the Ptolemies, the Greek dynasty that ruled Egypt after him, Alexandria became the largest and richest city of the Greek world, famous for its Library and Lighthouse. It remained a major center of learning for centuries and is Egypt's second largest city today.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Alexandria founded?
Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, west of the Nile Delta, after Egypt surrendered to him.
Why did Alexander found Alexandria?
Alexander wanted a major Greek port and city in Egypt. The site had a natural harbor protected by the island of Pharos and good connections to the Nile.
Who designed Alexandria?
The architect Dinocrates of Rhodes designed the city on a grid plan with wide streets. According to legend, its boundaries were marked out with barley flour.
What was Alexandria famous for?
Under the Ptolemies, Alexandria became the largest and richest city of the Greek world, famous for its Library, its Lighthouse and its scholars.
Is Alexander the Great buried in Alexandria?
Alexander's body was brought to Alexandria and placed in a famous tomb. Its location has been lost, and it remains one of the great mysteries of archaeology.
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