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| The Pompey's Pillar |
In the heart of Alexandria, where ancient civilizations once thrived, stands a lone survivor—a towering stone column that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. This massive monument, known as Pompey’s Pillar, has sparked curiosity, myths, and countless questions for over 1,700 years. But what’s the real story behind it? And why has it outlived so much of the city’s past?
A Name Wrapped in Mystery
Let’s clear up one of the biggest misconceptions—Pompey’s Pillar has nothing to do with Pompey! The name comes from an old mistake made by medieval travelers who thought the pillar marked the tomb of the Roman general Pompey the Great. But the truth is far from that.The column was actually built between 298 and 302 AD to honor Emperor Diocletian after he ended a rebellion in Alexandria. To thank him for his support, the people of Alexandria raised this massive structure in his name.
Now, here’s what makes it truly mind-blowing: the entire column was carved from a single block of red granite brought all the way from Aswan, in southern Egypt. It stands at an incredible 26.85 meters (88 feet) high, making it the tallest ancient monument in Alexandria that still stands today. Just imagine how difficult it must have been for workers—without modern technology—to transport, lift, and position this enormous piece of stone!
More Than Just a Column
Pompey’s Pillar isn’t just a lonely monument standing in the middle of Alexandria—it’s actually part of the remains of the Serapeum, a once-glorious temple dedicated to Serapis, a god worshipped by both Egyptians and Greeks.
Built during the rule of Ptolemy III Euergetes (246–222 BC), the Serapeum was one of Alexandria’s greatest temples. It wasn’t just a place of worship—it was a center for learning, even housing a “daughter library” of the world-famous Library of Alexandria. This made the temple a major hub for knowledge and culture.
But sadly, the Serapeum was destroyed in 391 AD during religious conflicts. While most of the temple was lost, Pompey’s Pillar somehow survived, standing as the last great piece of what was once an architectural masterpiece.
Legends, Myths, and Wild Stories
A monument this grand is bound to have some crazy stories attached to it. Over the years, many legends have been told about Pompey’s Pillar.
• The Treasure Myth: Some believed hidden treasure was buried beneath the column, leading treasure hunters to dig beneath it. Of course, they never found anything—except history!
• The Crusader’s Dare: There’s a story about a brave knight from the Crusades who supposedly climbed to the top of the pillar using ropes and poles. Whether it’s true or not, it shows how this monument has fascinated people for centuries.
Even today, Pompey’s Pillar continues to capture the imagination of visitors and historians alike.
A Survivor Through the Ages
While earthquakes, wars, and time have erased much of ancient Alexandria, Pompey’s Pillar refuses to fall. It has outlived kings, conquerors, and civilizations, standing strong as a reminder of Alexandria’s golden past.
This column isn’t just a piece of stone—it’s a symbol of resilience. It has watched the city transform for nearly two thousand years, and it’s still here, standing tall against the test of time.
Visiting Pompey’s Pillar Today
Location: Pompey’s Pillar is situated in the western part of Alexandria, near the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
Ticket Prices (as of 2025):
• Foreign Visitors: 200 Egyptian Pounds,students:100 EGP
• Egyptian Citizens: 20 Egyptian Pounds, students: 5 EGP
These prices are based on current listings and may vary slightly depending on the provider.
Visiting Hours: While specific hours can vary, many visitors choose to explore the site between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. It’s advisable to check the latest timings before planning your visit.
Why Should You Care?
Most people pass by Pompey’s Pillar without a second thought, seeing it as just another historical landmark. But it’s so much more than that!
• It’s a piece of Alexandria’s identity. This column connects us to a time when Alexandria was one of the greatest cities in the world.
• It’s an engineering wonder. The fact that this 88-foot-tall, 285-ton column was transported and raised without modern tools is mind-blowing!
• It’s waiting to be explored. Hidden beneath the site are underground chambers from the ancient Serapeum, just waiting for curious minds to discover them.
So, next time you visit, don’t just take a quick photo and leave. Stand beneath the pillar. Look up. Feel the history surrounding you. Because Pompey’s Pillar isn’t just a monument—it’s a story, a legend, and a piece of Alexandria’s soul.