Bibliotheca Alexandrina

About

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern library and cultural center located in Alexandria, Egypt. It serves as a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, one of the most renowned centers of knowledge in history. The library was inaugurated in 2002 and is a joint project between the Egyptian government, UNESCO, and Alexandria University. Its architectural design, created by the Norwegian firm Snøhetta, features a striking circular form with a tilting roof, reminiscent of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse. The library spans 85,000 square meters and includes facilities such as a planetarium, museums, art galleries, and a manuscript restoration laboratory. It houses a vast collection of books, including a significant Francophone section, and offers extensive digital resources. The building's exterior features a massive stone wall inscribed with characters from various writing systems, symbolizing the unity of human knowledge across cultures. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina aims to revitalize Alexandria as a cultural and intellectual hub, fostering education and research for generations to come.