The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It stood on the island of Pharos in Alexandria, Egypt, serving as a guiding beacon for sailors navigating the Mediterranean Sea. Here are top 10 amazing facts about the Lighthouse of Alexandria:
- Built by Ptolemy II: The lighthouse was commissioned by Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the ruler of Egypt, and construction began around 280 BCE.
- Designed by Sostratus of Cnidus: The lighthouse was designed by the Greek architect Sostratus of Cnidus, known for his innovative work in both architecture and engineering.
- Impressive Height: The Lighthouse of Alexandria was one of the tallest structures of its time, estimated to be between 100 and 130 meters (330 to 430 feet) in height.
- Three-Tiered Structure: The lighthouse had three distinct levels: a square base, an octagonal middle section, and a circular top section. This unique design was not only visually striking but also contributed to the structure’s stability.
- Fires for Illumination: The lighthouse’s light source was a fire at the top of the tower, which was likely fueled by wood or coal. The fire’s light was amplified by reflective surfaces.
- Seismic Resistance: The Lighthouse of Alexandria was built to withstand earthquakes, but it eventually succumbed to seismic activity and was damaged significantly by quakes in the 10th and 14th centuries.
- End of the Lighthouse: The lighthouse fell into disrepair after the earthquakes and was eventually abandoned. Its remaining stones were used to build the medieval Citadel of Qaitbay on the same site in the 15th century.
- Navigational Aid: The lighthouse was constructed to help guide ships safely into the harbor of Alexandria, serving as a vital navigational aid in the Mediterranean.
- Roman Influence: After the Roman conquest of Egypt, the lighthouse continued to function, and its maintenance and upkeep were overseen by the Roman Empire.
- Legacy and Influence: The Lighthouse of Alexandria became the archetype for all subsequent lighthouses around the world, and its engineering innovations have influenced many later architectural works.
Although the Lighthouse of Alexandria no longer stands, it remains one of the most celebrated wonders of the ancient world and a symbol of human ingenuity in architecture and engineering.
