Alexandria (Ancient Plan of the City and Port)

Description

This engraving, titled "Alexandria," presents an idealized plan view of Alexandria, one of the most important port cities of the ancient world. The inscription "Island of Pharos" at the bottom of the engraving depicts the Pharos (Alexandria) Lighthouse, located at the city's entrance and considered one of the Seven Wonders of Antiquity. This lighthouse stands out both as a beacon for sailors and as a symbol of the scientific and engineering genius of the Hellenistic world. The composition is created from the bird's-eye perspective typical of urban plans of the period. At the city center, structures resembling the Royal Palace, a theater, temples, and a library complex stand out. These elements elevate Alexandria not only as a trading port but also as one of the intellectual and cultural capitals of the ancient world.