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Alexandria: the first modern city

Islam Issa tells the colourful story of ancient Alexandria, a multicultural city dreamt up by Alexander the Great

Published: February 2, 2024 at 7:18 AM

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According to legend, when Alexander the Great rocked up on the island of Pharos in northern Egypt, he had a vision of a spectacular city – a vision that later became reality in the form of Alexandria. On the mainland nearby, connected by a new causeway to Pharos, the metropolis grew and thrived, drawing people in from far and wide. Its power was symbolised by the remarkable Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Great Library, which aspired to be home to all the world's knowledge. Speaking to Rebecca Franks, Islam Issa explores the origin story of this remarkable city.

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Islam Issa is the author of Alexandria: The City that Changed the World (Sceptre, 2023)

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Authors

Professor Islam Issa

Islam Issa is professor of literature and history at Birmingham City University

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