Bibliotheca Alexandrina

مكتبة الإسكندرية

A magnificent modern library and cultural center that honors the ancient Library of Alexandria, featuring millions of books, manuscripts, and digital resources. It's an essential stop for understanding Alexandria's intellectual heritage and offers stunning architecture, museums, and exhibitions.

Things to do

• Explore the Main Reading Rooms — Browse millions of books and manuscripts across climate-controlled halls designed with soaring ceilings and natural light that inspire intellectual reflection.
• Visit the Manuscript Museum — View rare ancient texts, historical documents, and illuminated manuscripts that showcase Alexandria's role as a center of learning throughout history.
• Attend an Exhibition or Lecture — Check the schedule for rotating exhibitions on art, history, science, and literature, plus lectures and cultural events held in the library's auditoriums.
• Walk Through the Bibliotheca Plaza — Stroll the modernist plaza overlooking the Mediterranean with its geometric stone carvings and views of Fort Qaitbay, ideal for photography and reflection.
• Browse the Rare Books Collection — Examine limited-edition volumes, first editions, and historically significant texts preserved in specially controlled environments.
• Visit the Youth Section and Interactive Zones — Explore hands-on learning exhibits and digital resources designed for younger visitors and those interested in emerging technologies.
• Enjoy the Bibliotheca Café — Relax in the on-site café with views of the Mediterranean while enjoying light refreshments between browsing sessions.

Food to try

• Koshari — This iconic Egyptian street food of lentils, rice, pasta, and chickpeas topped with tangy tomato sauce is available at nearby vendors outside the library.
• Fresh Seafood — Alexandria's coastal location ensures excellent fresh fish, grilled shrimp, and octopus served at restaurants within walking distance of Bibliotheca.
• Egyptian Mezze Platter — Sample an assortment of small plates including hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and falafel that showcase traditional Levantine flavors.
• Om Ali Dessert — This warm bread pudding made with milk, nuts, and raisins is a beloved Egyptian dessert perfect for ending a visit to the library café.
• Fresh Fruit Juices — Street vendors throughout Alexandria offer freshly pressed mango, guava, and sugar cane juices that provide refreshment during your visit.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Quiet Zones — The library maintains strict silence policies in reading areas, so keep conversations minimal and turn off phone notifications out of respect for other researchers.
• Dress Modestly — While the library is modern, Egyptian culture values modest dress; avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and low necklines to show respect for local customs.
• Visit During Cooler Hours — The Egyptian heat is intense; plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to maximize comfort while exploring the library and its outdoor plaza.
• Learn Basic Arabic Greetings — Staff appreciate when visitors use simple Arabic phrases like 'As-salaam alaikum' (hello) and 'Shukran' (thank you), which opens warm interactions.