Pompey’s Pillar: is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Alexandria, Egypt, and a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting in 2025. Towering high above the city’s skyline, this ancient Roman column is not only an architectural marvel but also a monument rich in legends, history, and mystery. Travelers are often amazed at how this single column has stood for over 1,700 years, surviving wars, earthquakes, and centuries of changing empires.
For those planning a trip to Egypt, Pompey’s Pillar offers a perfect way to experience the Greco-Roman side of the country’s history, contrasting beautifully with the more famous pyramids, temples, and tombs. Whether you are fascinated by archaeology, drawn to myths of Roman generals, or simply love exploring world heritage sites, this monument will add depth to your journey.
The History of Pompey’s Pillar
Why is it called Pompey’s Pillar?
Despite its name, the pillar has no connection with Pompey the Great, the Roman general who was assassinated in Egypt in 48 BC. Instead, the monument was erected in AD 298–302 in honor of Emperor Diocletian after he helped relieve the city during a famine.
Medieval travelers misunderstood its origin, believing it marked the burial place of Pompey. This mistaken identity gave the column its lasting name—Pompey’s Pillar—a title still used today by locals, historians, and visitors.
Construction and Materials
The column is made of red Aswan granite, standing 26.85 meters (88 feet) tall with a diameter of almost 3 meters at the base. Its single block shaft weighs around 285 tons, making it one of the largest monolithic columns ever created outside of Rome.
It originally stood within the Serapeum of Alexandria, a temple dedicated to Serapis, the Greco-Egyptian deity worshipped widely during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. Although the temple itself was destroyed in the 4th century AD, the column survived as a solitary witness to the city’s turbulent past.
Why Visit Pompey’s Pillar in 2025
Travelers in 2025 have more reason than ever to include Pompey’s Pillar in their Egypt itinerary. Alexandria has been investing in heritage conservation and tourism services, making visits smoother, more informative, and traveler-friendly.
Historical importance: The column reflects the grandeur of Alexandria as a cultural capital of the ancient world.
Unique experience: It offers a Roman-era attraction in a country best known for pharaonic wonders.
Easy accessibility: Located in central Alexandria, it can be reached quickly from the Corniche, hotels, and train stations.
Complementary attractions: Nearby are the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Alexandria National Museum.
Instagram-worthy views: Its sheer scale and striking contrast against Alexandria’s skyline make for stunning photographs.
Exploring the Site
The Column
Walking into the archaeological site, travelers are immediately drawn to the sheer size of Pompey’s Pillar. Its granite shaft gleams under the Egyptian sun, and standing at its base allows visitors to truly appreciate its engineering feat.
The Sphinxes
Two sphinx statues flank the area, remnants from the Serapeum. They are carved from pink granite, dating back to earlier pharaonic times, and were repurposed in the Roman setting, blending two worlds of history in one site.
The Serapeum Ruins
Visitors can also see the foundations of the Serapeum temple and explore underground galleries once used as sacred catacombs and storerooms. These tunnels add an element of mystery and give a sense of Alexandria’s religious diversity in antiquity.
Myths and Legends
Throughout the centuries, Pompey’s Pillar has been surrounded by fascinating stories:
Pompey’s Tomb Myth: Medieval crusaders believed the ashes of Pompey were stored at the top of the column.
Hidden Treasure Tales: Local folklore claimed gold and manuscripts from the Library of Alexandria were buried beneath it.
Unbreakable Stone Legend: Some myths said no natural disaster could topple the column, and remarkably, it has withstood centuries of challenges.
These stories make the site not just a historical attraction but also a window into the imagination of travelers across ages.
How to Visit Pompey’s Pillar
Location
Pompey’s Pillar is located in Karmouz district, Alexandria, on a hilltop that gives it commanding views over the surrounding area.
Opening Hours (2025 Update)
Open daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Special evening tours are sometimes available during cultural festivals.
Ticket Prices (Approximate 2025 Rates)
Adults: 100 EGP
Students: 50 EGP
Children under 6: Free
(Prices may vary slightly depending on tourism policies.)
Best Time to Visit
The best months are October to April, when the weather is cooler and sightseeing is more enjoyable. Early morning visits allow for peaceful exploration before larger groups arrive.
Travel Tips for 2025
Combine with nearby attractions: Plan a half-day tour that includes the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and the Roman Amphitheater.
Wear comfortable shoes: The site involves walking on uneven stone pathways.
Photography: Morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photos.
Hire a local guide: Guides can explain the myths and historical details, making the visit more enriching.
Bring water and sun protection: Alexandria’s climate can still be warm even in cooler months.
Alexandria Beyond Pompey’s Pillar
Travelers should not limit their Alexandria journey to Pompey’s Pillar. The city is a treasure chest of history:
Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A modern tribute to the legendary ancient library.
Qaitbay Citadel: Built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Alexandria Corniche: Perfect for a seaside walk, coffee, and sunset views.
Montazah Palace Gardens: Royal gardens that provide a green escape from the busy city.
National Museum of Alexandria: Houses artifacts from Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic Egypt.
Including Pompey’s Pillar in such a tour makes Alexandria a balanced stop in any Egyptian adventure.
Why Travelers Love Pompey’s Pillar
Travelers from around the world often describe Pompey’s Pillar as:
A surprise: Many don’t expect a Roman monument of such size in Egypt.
Photogenic: Its solitary presence against the Alexandrian sky makes it unique.
Educational: Families with children find it a great way to introduce Roman history outside Europe.
Atmospheric: The myths surrounding it create an aura of mystery that appeals to history lovers.
Planning Your Trip in 2025
If you’re traveling through Egypt in 2025, a trip to Alexandria is easier than ever:
From Cairo: Trains run daily from Ramses Station, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours. Buses and private cars are also available.
Within Alexandria: Taxis, Uber, and Careem services are widely available. The site is centrally located, making transport straightforward.
Tour packages: Many travel agencies (including ours) offer guided day trips from Cairo that include Pompey’s Pillar, ensuring you maximize your visit.
Final Thoughts
Pompey’s Pillar is more than just a column. It is a silent storyteller of Alexandria’s Roman past, a reminder of emperors, myths, and ancient religions. For travelers in 2025, it provides a unique chance to step into history that is less crowded than Egypt’s more famous landmarks yet equally fascinating.
Whether you are a solo adventurer, a family traveler, or part of a cultural group tour, Pompey’s Pillar will enrich your journey through Egypt. Its towering presence invites us to pause, reflect, and admire how one stone column can carry centuries of human history.
