Lighthouse of Alexandria

Quick Facts: Who was Lighthouse of Alexandria?

Subject:

Lighthouse of Alexandria

Known for:

Ancient Ptolemaic lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Pharos of Alexandria was a lighthouse built by the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Ancient Egypt, during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus (280–247 BC). It has been estimated to have been at least 100 metres (330 ft) in overall height. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, for many centuries it was one of the world's tallest man-made structures.

Career & Major Achievements

The lighthouse was severely damaged by three earthquakes between AD 956 and 1303 and became an abandoned ruin. It was the third longest-surviving ancient wonder, after the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and the extant Great Pyramid of Giza, surviving in part until 1480, when the last of its stones was used to build the Citadel of Qaitbay on the site.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 1994, a team of French archaeologists dived in the water of Alexandria's Eastern Harbour and discovered some remains of the lighthouse on the sea floor. In 2016, the Ministry of State of Antiquities in Egypt had plans to turn submerged ruins of ancient Alexandria, including those of the Pharos, into an underwater museum.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1303: 1303 Milestone — The lighthouse was severely damaged by three earthquakes between AD 956 and 1303 and became an abandoned ruin.
2. 1480: 1480 Milestone — It was the third longest-surviving ancient wonder, after the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and the extant Great Pyramid of Giza, surviving in part until 1480, when the last of its stones was used to build the Citadel of Qaitbay on the site.
3. 1994: 1994 Milestone — In 1994, a team of French archaeologists dived in the water of Alexandria's Eastern Harbour and discovered some remains of the lighthouse on the sea floor.
4. 2016: 2016 Milestone — In 2016, the Ministry of State of Antiquities in Egypt had plans to turn submerged ruins of ancient Alexandria, including those of the Pharos, into an underwater museum.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Lighthouse of Alexandria

True or False: “The Pharos of Alexandria was the only structure in the ancient world to survive all its original seven wonders intact.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The Pharos was one of the three longest-surviving ancient wonders, but it was not the only one, nor was it entirely intact throughout its history.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Lighthouse of Alexandria