Historical timeline

Occupiers & Influences of Alexandria

A detailed summary of the historical periods, occupiers and cultural influences of the city of Alexandria, complemented by poetic song lyrics.

331 BC – Founding: Founded by Alexander the Great and designed by his architect Deinocrates.
305–30 BC – Ptolemaic Dynasty: Alexandria becomes the capital and flourishes as a center of Hellenism. It is the golden age of culture and science (Library of Alexandria, Lighthouse of Pharos).
30 BC – 395 AD – Roman Empire: The city becomes an important Roman province. A time of the "Pax Romana," characterized by a highly multicultural society.
395–641 AD – Byzantine Empire: Alexandria becomes an important center of early Christianity but also experiences intense religious conflicts.
30 BC – 395 AD – Roman Empire: * 641–1250 AD – Islamic Expansion & Caliphate: After the Arab conquest, the capital was moved to Fustat (near present-day Cairo). This led to a decline in political importance and the gradual Arabization of the city.
1250–1517 AD – Mamluk Sultanate: A rather turbulent period characterized by wars, economic decline, and the fortification and defense of the city.
1517–1801 AD – Ottoman Empire: Alexandria remained an important strategic port but experienced a long period of stagnation overall.
1798–1801 AD – French & British Intervention: Struggle for Egypt between European powers (Napoleon's campaign). This period also marks the beginning of modern Egyptology (discovery of the Rosetta Stone).

- 1805–Today – Modernity & Independence: Beginning with Muhammad Ali Pasha, the city underwent a massive reconstruction. It developed into the modern, cosmopolitan metropolis it is today in the Republic of Egypt.

Original Lyrics (English)

Oh, Alexandria... Your shores have known so many different dawns, Greek whispers blend with Roman legions gone.

A tapestry of ages, rich and deep, Secrets your timeless waters always keep.