Pompey's Pillar, Alexandria

Pompey's Pillar stands as a historic monument in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt. This ancient triumphal column is one of the city's most well-known archaeological landmarks. Made from red Aswan granite, the pillar rises to a height of approximately 28 meters, including its pedestal. Erected in 297 AD, the column is the tallest of its kind outside of the capitals of Rome and Constantinople.

The monolithic column was constructed in honor of Emperor Diocletian, who supplied the besieged city with food during a dire shortage. Contrary to what its name might suggest, the pillar has no connection to the Roman general Pompey. The misattribution dates back to the Middle Ages, and the pillar is actually dedicated to Emperor Diocletian, as evidenced by the inscription at its base.

Pompey's Pillar is an obelisk, and it is the last remaining relic of the Serapeum, a temple that was once a magnificent part of Alexandria's architectural landscape. The temple, which was dedicated to the god Serapis, was largely destroyed in antiquity, with the column surviving as a solitary testament to its former grandeur.

Visitors to Pompey's Pillar can marvel at the engineering prowess of ancient civilizations. The column itself is a single piece of granite, which would have required advanced knowledge and techniques to transport and erect. The site offers a glimpse into the rich history of Alexandria, once a hub of Hellenistic culture and learning.