The Ancient Library of Alexandria: A Must-See Destination for History Buffs

The ancient Library of Alexandria is one of the most famous intellectual hubs of all time, the embodiment of Egyptian intellectual culture. The library that was initially built is no longer there, but its legacy remains an inspiring source to scholars and travelers all over the world. Tourists visiting cultural attractions in Alexandria can simplify their trip by obtaining an e-Visa to Egypt online since they are guaranteed the entry and more time to explore the timeless history of the ancient Library of Alexandria.

History of the Library of Alexandria

In the colorful metropolis of Alexandria, on the shores of Egypt, there was a beacon of learning that attracted thinkers and scholars in all parts of the old world. The ancient Library of Alexandria, which was established during the 3rd century BC was not merely a place of scrolls but it was also a manifestation of human desires and intellectual endeavors.

With the accession of Ptolemy I Soter, the heir of Alexander the great came the founding of the Alexandrian Library. Ptolemy believed in a place in which all of human knowledge could be gathered, studied and shared. To bring this vision to reality, a gigantic complex consisting of a Library, lecture halls and gardens and even a zoo was designed. The Library had an estimated 40,000 - 400,000 scrolls in its collection that had everything, including philosophy, literature, mathematics and astronomy.

This was one of the numerous peculiarities of the process through which the Alexandria Library Egypt received its texts. It was said that Ptolemaic kings required any books entering the city to be duplicated and the duplicated copy be given to its owner and the original placed in the Library. It is through its aggressive acquisition strategy that the Library has acquired a collection unrivalled in the ancient world.

The Library was a nest of creativeness and education instead of a lifeless collection of scrolls. It attracted some of the best brains of the times like Eratosthenes who calculated the circumference of the earth with precision and Euclid, who was the father of geometry. At the Library, scholars were able to converse theories, exchange ideas and push the boundaries of human knowledge.

The ancient Library of Alexandria is one of the most legendary libraries in history

For a deeper look into Egypt’s preservation of ancient heritage, visitors may also be interested in exploring the Egypt Mummies Museum, which showcases the remarkable art of mummification and its cultural significance.

The tragic fate of the ancient Library of Alexandria

It has the myth of the fire that burnt down the Alexandrian Library Egypt. And that it actually disappeared and has only been discussed in ancient books. What happened?

The old Library of Alexandria died in a pathetic manner, although it was grand and powerful in its intellect. Its destruction has been one of the enormous cultural losses of history which are enveloped by mystery and disputed by historians. There are various theories that indicate the way the library came to its end. A widely held explanation of its destruction is that Julius Caesar, who allegedly burnt the docks of Alexandria in 48 BCE, accidentally set the library ablaze. Other theories refer to the later struggle and religious prohibitions that might have contributed to the slow down fall of the library.

To the ancient world, the destruction of the Library in Alexandria was a great setback. Nevertheless, the contemporary knowledge preservation and dissemination institutions are still motivated.

Known facts about the Library of Alexandria

Since there are no remaining archaeological remnants, we can only attempt to reconstruct its past using old literature.

There is no archaeological evidence left of the ancient Library of Alexandria

Modern Alexandria is covered with ancient Alexandria. The Museum is so anonymous as to where it is. Not a single stone remains of the building of the Library. There is not a roll of papyrus remaining.

Nonetheless, some of the items are associated with philosophers, and they can therefore be potential Museum clients. carved on stone, Dioscorides, 3 volumes. Whether it was the basis of a statue or a box of papyrus, is unknown.

The Library was located at the Royal Quarter. The tomb of Alexander the Great, the conqueror of the city, was also one of the wonders. There also was Cleopatra tomb which was the last Egyptian pharaoh.

There is no archaeological evidence left of the ancient Library of Alexandria

Explore more about the museum of Egyptian antiquities in Cairo

Even the tombs of Alexander the Great and Cleopatra vanished

The Lighthouse was one of the seven wonders of the world located in Alexandria, one of the great cities of the antique world. The list could be extended to the Library and the tombs of Alexander and Cleopatra.

Just as virtually every other Pharaoh, Alexander was forced to witness his treasure of gold being looted. Nevertheless, great personalities such as Caracalla up to Julius Caesar honored the tomb of Alexander. With Cleopatra, the last Pharaoh, Antony was buried, embalmed, and in the same tomb.

The Royal sector was however destroyed as is given in fourth-century-AD texts, which declare that the town had lost the largest portion of the quarter known as Bruccheion, its walls were destroyed.

As still another source says, the tomb of Alexander long ago disappeared: Tell me, where is the tomb of Alexander? Show it to me."

A lot of ancient Alexandria has disappeared. Three wonders, the Library, tombs of Alexander, and tomb of Cleopatra died away without leaving a trace.

To better understand the cultural context surrounding the library’s era, visitors can explore the rich legacy of ancient Egypt art, which reflects the beliefs, values, and daily life of the civilization that once flourished along the Nile.

The Library of Alexandria reborn as Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Close to where the old library was built, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, commonly referred to as the New Library of Alexandria has emerged over the past few years. It was opened in 2002 and commemorates the original, and is a modern centre of learning and intercultural exchange. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is also meant to bring back the spirit of its predecessor by hosting millions of books there and providing resources to both the academics and the general population.

The Library of Alexandria was reborn as Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The rich history of the Ancient Library of Alexandria is deeply connected to Egypt’s vast knowledge and archaeological discoveries. One of the most fascinating findings is the discovery of mummies in Egypt, which continues to unveil secrets of the ancient civilization.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Egyptian mummy makes a great impression upon the travelers due to its strong connection to the practices of the ancient world, pharaohs, and the secrets of the afterlife. The preserved remains of these royal mummies and tombs of Egypt, found in the Royal Mummy Rooms of Cairo, and in tombs at Luxor, are an invaluable insight into the past of Egypt. It is a memorable experience to visit these historic treasures. To have a successful visit, it is important to obtain your Egypt e-Visa beforehand, so that you can enjoy the full benefits of learning the history of Egypt.