The Serapeum of Alexandria: The Great Temple of Serapis

The Serapeum was the largest and most prestigious of all temples in the Greek quarter of Alexandria. It was dedicated to the god Serapis, a syncretic god combining aspects of Osiris and Apis, and was popular among the Hellenized Egyptians of Alexandria. 

The Serapeum was a popular destination for pilgrims and tourist from all over the world. It was known for its healing powers, and many people came to the temple to seek cures for their ailments. The temple was also known for its fertility rites, and many couples came to the temple to pray for children.

The history, closure, destruction and architecture of the Serapeum of Alexandria will all be covered in this guide. Additionally, it will attempt to address some of the most popular questions regarding visiting, including What is the best time to visit? What are the entrance fees? What to wear?

History

Reference Wikipedia

The Serapeum of Alexandria was built during the reign of Ptolemy III Euergetes, between 246 and 222 BC. The site was a rocky plateau overlooking the sea and was by contemporary accounts, the most impressive of all temples in Alexandria's Greek quarter.

The Serapeum was a popular destination for pilgrims who came to worship Serapis and seek his help with their problems. The temple was also a learning centre and contained one of the largest collection of books in the city of Alexandria. commissioned by Ptolemy III.

The Serapeum was destroyed in the 3rd century AD during the persecution of Christians by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. And its ruins were later used as a quarry, and only a few columns and statues remain today.

Closure and Destruction

In 391 CE, the Roman emperor Theodosius I ordered the closure of all pagan temples in the empire. This proclamation was carried out by a Christian mob, who destroyed the Serapeum and looted its treasures. The loss of the Serapeum was a devastating blow to the city of Alexandria and Egyptian culture more broadly. Its library had been a centre of learning for centuries, and its destruction was a significant setback for the advancement of knowledge.

The closure of the Serapeum is a reminder of the dangers of religious intolerance. The destruction of the Serapeum temple and the looting of its treasures were a direct result of Theodosius' edict banning pagan worship. Theodosius' actions were motivated by his desire to stamp out paganism and consolidate power within the Christian church. However, in doing so, he also destroyed an important centre of learning and culture.

The loss of the Serapeum was a tragedy for the city of Alexandria and the world of learning. We can only hope that, in the future, people will be more tolerant of different religions and cultures and that the world will be more peaceful and understanding.

Architecture

The Serapeum in Alexandria was one of the most impressive examples of Hellenistic architecture. It was built of white marble, and was decorated with reliefs and statues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why visit the excavation of Serapeum of Alexandria?

The Serapeum of Alexandria is one of the world's most fascinating and significant ancient sites. Here are the four reasons why you should visit this incredible place:

1. To imagine what life was like in the ancient world
   Visiting the Serapeum gives you a chance to step back in time and imagine what life was like in the ancient world. The temple was the center of religious life in Alexandria, and would have been an awe-inspiring sight in its heyday.
2. To learn about Egyptian history and culture
   The Serapeum was built in the 2nd century BC during the reign of the Egyptian king Ptolemy II. It was a symbol of the power and wealth of the Ptolemaic dynasty. The temple was decorated with many statues and reliefs, providing valuable insight into ancient Egypt's history and culture.
3. To see the remains of a lost civilization
   The Serapeum was one of the most important temples of the ancient world. The Romans destroyed it, but its ruins are a reminder of the lost civilization of the Egyptians.
4. To learn about the history of Alexandria
   The city of Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, and was one of the most important cities of the ancient world.

Who will enjoy visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria?

Many different types of tourist would enjoy visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria.

Lastly, another type of tourist that will enjoy visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria is those who are interested in religion. The Serapeum of Alexandria was a very religious place dedicated to the Graeco-Egyptian deity Serapis. Those who are interested in religion will enjoy learning about the different religious ceremonies that took place there.

No matter your interests, there is something for everyone at the Serapeum of Alexandria.

What is the best time to visit the Serapeum of Alexandria?

The best time to visit the Serapeum of Alexandria is during the cooler winter months when the weather is more bearable. However, this is also the busiest time of year for tourism in Egypt, so be prepared for large crowds. If you can, try to visit during the shoulder months of March-April or October-November, when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are smaller.

When you visit, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. Wear loose, comfortable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton. And don't forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

How do I get to the Serapeum of Alexandria?

Assuming you would like directions from Alexandria to the Serapeum of Alexandria: 

1. Alexandria - Alexandria Governorate, Egypt
2. Head south-east on Ahmed Zewail Square towards Ahmed Ismail - 280 m
3. Exit the roundabout onto Ahmed Ismail - 500 m
4. Merge onto Grinfel - 1.2 km
5. Slight left towards Sherif - 200 m
6. Turn right onto Sherif - 900 m
7. Turn left onto Amoud Al Sawari/Pompey's Pillar
8. Destination will be on the right - 650 m
9. Serapeum of Alexandria - Pompey's Pillar, Al Karah WA at Toubageyah WA Kafr Al Ghates, Karmouz, Alexandria Governorate 5341142, Egypt

Transportation Options

• One option is to take a bus - The bus system in Alexandria is reliable and affordable, making it a great option for getting around the city. There are a few different routes that go to the Serapeum, so check the bus schedule in advance to ensure you are taking the correct bus. 
• Another option is to take a taxi - Taxis are widely available in Alexandria and can be hailed from the street or ordered in advance. Taking a taxi is a bit more expensive than taking the bus, but it can be more convenient if you are pressed for time. 
• Finally, If you are feeling adventurous, rent a bicycle and pedal your way to the Serapeum - This is a great option if you want to exercise while sightseeing. Alexandria has a few different rental companies, so be sure to shop around for the best price. 
  
  

How much does it cost to visit the Serapeum of Alexandria, and when is it open?

The cost of visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria and Pompey's Pillar is around 80EGP (approx. $3-4).

The Serapeum of Alexandria is open every day from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Note: Fees are subject to change without notice  

What should I wear at the Serapeum of Alexandria?

The recommended dress code for visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria is fairly casual. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• First, it is important to wear comfortable shoes as a lot of walking is involved.
• Second, it is advisable to dress loose and light as the weather can be hot depending on the time of year you choose to visit.
• Finally, respecting the cultural heritage site and dressing modestly is essential.
  
  

How fit do I need to be?

The recommended level of fitness to visit the Serapeum of Alexandria is moderate. The complex is large, and there is a lot of walking involved. However, the pace is slow, and there are plenty of places to rest.

Is it safe to visit the Serapeum today?

There are no specific safety concerns for visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria and more broadly Alexandria is a fairly safe city to visit. Egypt as a country has be subject to terrorist attacks in the past so it is always a good idea to check your countries foreign office advise before planning a trip to Egypt.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to visit the Serapeum of Alexandria is personal. If you are interested in visiting the temple, you should research the risks and decide based on your comfort level.

What are the Safety Recommendations?

When visiting the Serapeum, a few safety conditions should be followed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• First and foremost, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather -  Alexandria can be hot and humid, so it is advised to wear light, loose-fitting clothing. It is also important to wear comfortable shoes, as a lot of walking is involved in exploring the temple.
• Another safety concern when visiting the Serapeum is the possibility of pickpockets - As with any tourist attraction, a few people always look to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you. Leaving valuables and unnecessary items at your hotel or in a safe place before heading to the temple is also a good idea.

When inside the Serapeum, there are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe.

• First, it is important to stay on the designated pathways and not to venture off into areas that are not open to the public - Many temple areas are still excavated, and entering these areas is unsafe.
• Additionally, it is important to respect the artefacts and not touch or disturb anything - Many of the artefacts are very fragile and can easily be damaged.

Overall, as long as you follow these safety guidelines, visiting the Serapeum of Alexandria should be a safe and enjoyable experience. By taking a few precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can ensure that your visit to this incredible temple is memorable.

What else can I do at the Serapeum of Alexandria? 

Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and there are many activities that visitors can enjoy. Here are seven of the most popular things to do at the Serapeum of Alexandria:

1. Visit the Temple of Serapis - The temple of Serapis was the main reason the Serapeum of Alexandria was built. It was one of the ancient world's largest and most impressive temples and is still worth a visit today. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes remains of the main temple, the library, and the museum.
2. Learn about the God Serapis - The god Serapis was the main deity worshipped at the Serapeum of Alexandria. He was a famous god, and his cult was one of the most important in the ancient world. Visitors can learn about Serapis and his cult at the temple complex.
3. Visit the Library - The Serapeum of Alexandria was home to one of the most famous libraries of the ancient world. The library was a centre of learning and scholarship and contained many books. Visitors can view the remains of the great library of Alexandria and learn about its history.
4. Take a Tour: There are many tours of the Serapeum of Alexandria that visitors can take - These tours provide a great way to learn about the history and culture of the ancient world.
5. Visit the nearby Museum of Alexandria: The Museum of Alexandria is located just a short distance from the Serapeum of Alexandria - The museum houses a collection of artefacts from the ancient world, including many from the Serapeum of Alexandria. Visitors to the museum can learn about the history of the Serapeum of Alexandria and see some of the artefacts that were once housed in the temple.
6. Visit the nearby Alexandria Zoo - The Alexandria Zoo is located just a short distance from the Serapeum of Alexandria. The zoo is home to various animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. Visitors to the zoo can learn about the animals and see them up close.
7. Shop at the nearby Souq - The Souq is a market located just a short distance from the Serapeum of Alexandria. Visitors can find various items for sale at the market, including souvenirs, clothing, and jewellery.
   
   
   

What useful traveller tips do you have for visiting?

• Do your research before you go - The Serapeum of Alexandria is a large and complex site, and it's worth reading up on it before you visit. Many books and articles are available, both in English and other languages.
• Get there early - The Serapeum is one of Alexandria's most popular tourist attractions, and it can get bustling, especially in the summer months. It's best to arrive early in the day before the crowds get too big.
• Wear comfortable shoes - The Serapeum is spread out over a large area, and there's a lot of walking. Wear shoes that you know are comfortable and won't give you blisters.
• Bring water - It can get hot in Alexandria, especially in the summer, so make sure you drink plenty of water. You can buy water at the Serapeum, but it's cheaper to bring your own.
• Take your time - There's a lot to see at the Serapeum, and it's easy to miss things if you're rushing around. Take your time and explore everything at your own pace.
• Talk to the staff - The staff at the Serapeum are there to help you, so if you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask. They're also a good source of information about the site and its history.
• Explore the outside and the inside - The Serapeum is more than just the main temple complex. There's also a large surrounding area with plenty of interesting things to see.
• Take plenty of photos - The Serapeum is a visually stunning place, and it's well worth taking plenty of pictures. Just remember to be respectful of the site and its visitors.
• Buy souvenirs from the shops - The shops in and around the Serapeum sells a wide range of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and replica statues. It's a great place to pick up gifts for friends and family.
• Enjoy your visit - The Serapeum of Alexandria is a truly fantastic place, and it's well worth exploring it. You're sure to have a great time with some planning and preparation.