Alexandria -- Ancient History Encyclopedia

Definition

Alexandria is a port city in the Nile Delta in Egypt that was founded by Alexander the Great when he conquered the Persian province of Egypt in 331 BC.

It is said that Alexander personally created the plan for the city. After Alexander's death, Alexandria became the seat of power of Ptolemy I, one of Alexander's successors. The city developed to become one of the most important intellectual centers of the ancient world, famous for its library that was reputed to be the largest in the world.

The Ptolemaic dynasty ended in 30 BC, when Cleopatra VII died and the city was fully in the hands of the Roman Empire. The city's importance declined in the following centuries.

Written by Jan van der Crabben, published 28 April 2011.

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