The Serapeum and Pompey’s Pillar

The Serapeum and Pompey’s Pillar

Located in western Alexandria, the Serapeum and Pompey’s Pillar offer a fascinating peek into the city’s Greco-Roman legacy. While not as well-known as the Pyramids or the Valley of the Kings, this spot holds its own when it comes to historical depth and architectural beauty.

It’s quiet, open-air, and perfect for travelers who love getting lost in ancient stone, mythology, and stories of emperors and gods.

What Is the Serapeum?

The Serapeum of Alexandria was a grand temple complex dedicated to Serapis, a Greco-Egyptian deity created during the Ptolemaic period to unify Greek and Egyptian religion. This temple was one of the most important religious institutions in the city, rivaling even the Library of Alexandria in cultural influence.

Although the original temple was destroyed (likely in the 4th century AD during the Christianization of Egypt), ruins of the complex remain, including underground chambers and niches carved into the bedrock.

Pompey’s Pillar: More Than Meets the Eye

Despite its name, Pompey’s Pillar has nothing to do with the Roman general Pompey. The 27-meter-tall red granite column was erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian around 297 AD — likely to celebrate his suppression of a revolt in Alexandria and to commemorate his support of the city during a time of famine.

It’s the tallest ancient column in Egypt and one of the largest monolithic columns ever built outside Rome. Standing on a hill above the surrounding ruins, it’s an impressive sight — especially when you realize it was carved from a single piece of stone and weighs over 280 tons.

Underground Galleries and Artifacts

Beneath the Serapeum, you’ll find subterranean galleries that once held sacred relics, religious offerings, and perhaps even library scrolls. Today, they house replicas of statues, including one of Apis, the sacred bull deity worshipped here. It’s a little dark and mysterious — and makes for a cool break from the Alexandria heat.

Tips for Visiting

  • Timing: Mornings or late afternoons are best, especially to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Tickets: Entrance is inexpensive and can be combined with visits to other nearby attractions.
  • Wear comfy shoes! The site has uneven paths and some staircases leading to the underground parts.
  • Pair it with nearby stops like the Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqafa for a full ancient Alexandria experience.

Location

Hours

Every day from 9 AM–2:30 PM

Entrance Fee

$4 for tourists

Wondering what to wear or when to go? Check our Egypt guide to discover more!

Check Egypt Travel Guide

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

I decided to book a couple tours when I went to Egypt and had a blast! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

I decided to book a couple tours when I went to Egypt and had a blast! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

More things to see in Egypt

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