The Great Pharos Lighthouse of Alexandria: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering

In the ancient city of Alexandria, Egypt, stood a remarkable structure that captivated the imagination of all who beheld it. The Pharos Lighthouse, also known as the Lighthouse of Alexandria, was a monumental achievement of engineering and a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians. This awe-inspiring structure, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, served as a guiding beacon for sailors navigating the treacherous waters of the Mediterranean Sea. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history, construction, and legacy of the Great Pharos Lighthouse.

The story of the Pharos Lighthouse begins with the founding of the city of Alexandria by the great conqueror, Alexander the Great, in 332 B.C. Alexander chose the location carefully, opting for a site away from the silt and mud of the Nile Delta. The city flourished under the rule of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which began with Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander's generals. It was during the reign of Ptolemy I's son, Ptolemy II Philadelphus, that the construction of the lighthouse began around 290-280 B.C.

The architect responsible for the design of the Pharos Lighthouse was Sostratus of Cnidus, a Greek from the city of Cnidus in Asia Minor. While only the king's name was allowed on public buildings during this period, Sostratus found a clever way to leave his mark. He inscribed his dedication to the "savior gods" on the foundation of the lighthouse, which was then covered with plaster. Over time, the plaster deteriorated, revealing Sostratus' dedication.

The lighthouse was constructed on the island of Pharos, connected to the mainland by a causeway known as the Heptastadion. The structure itself consisted of three tiers: a lower quadrangular section, an octagonal middle section, and a cylindrical upper section. The lighthouse was built using large blocks of stone faced with white marble and joined together with lead mortar. It stood on a 20-foot-high stone platform, with a doorway located partway up the structure, accessed by a long ramp supported by massive arches.

The primary purpose of the Pharos Lighthouse was to guide ships safely into the bustling harbor of Alexandria. Its light, provided by a fire burning at the top, served as a beacon for sailors navigating the treacherous waters. The lighthouse's design was unlike that of modern lighthouses, resembling more of a skyscraper with its three-tiered structure.

The first tier, sitting on the stone platform, was approximately 240 feet in height and shaped like a massive box. It housed a large spiral ramp that allowed for the transportation of materials to the upper levels. The second tier, an eight-sided tower, stood around 115 feet tall. Atop the tower was a cylindrical section that extended an additional 60 feet and housed the open cupola where the fire burned. It is believed that a statue, possibly of the sea god Poseidon, adorned the roof of the cupola.

The Pharos Lighthouse was an engineering marvel of its time and a testament to the advanced architectural skills of the ancient Egyptians. Its height, estimated to be between 450 and 600 feet, made it one of the tallest structures in the world at the time, second only to the Great Pyramid of Giza. The lighthouse's commanding presence and its ability to guide ships from great distances earned it a place among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The lighthouse's significance extended beyond its practical function. It became a symbol of the prosperity and power of the city of Alexandria, a testament to the wealth and influence of the Ptolemaic dynasty. It attracted visitors from far and wide, who marveled at its grandeur and enjoyed the breathtaking views from its observation platforms.

Sadly, the Pharos Lighthouse did not stand the test of time. Throughout the centuries, it suffered damage from earthquakes, and by the medieval period, the upper section had been destroyed. In 1480, the remains of the lighthouse were repurposed by the Sultan of Egypt, Qaitbay, who used the stones to build a fort on the site.

Despite its eventual demise, the legacy of the Pharos Lighthouse lives on. The term "pharos" itself became synonymous with lighthouses, and the structure's design likely influenced later architectural styles, such as the minarets seen in Islamic architecture. The lighthouse's significance as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World continues to captivate the imagination of people today, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians.

In more recent times, efforts have been made to uncover and preserve the remnants of the Pharos Lighthouse. In 1994, archaeological divers explored the waters off the coast of Alexandria and discovered large blocks of stone and fragments of sculpture believed to be part of the lighthouse. These findings provide valuable insights into the construction and design of this ancient marvel.

Efforts are underway to protect and showcase these underwater ruins, with plans to turn the submerged remains of the lighthouse and other ancient structures into an underwater museum. The exploration and study of the Pharos Lighthouse continue to shed light on the rich history and architectural achievements of ancient Egypt.

The Pharos Lighthouse of Alexandria stands as a testament to the grandeur and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians. Its construction and design, as well as its significant role in guiding ships to the harbor of Alexandria, make it a marvel of ancient architecture. While the lighthouse may no longer stand, its legacy lives on in the form of its influence on subsequent lighthouse designs and its enduring place among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ongoing efforts to uncover and preserve its remains ensure that the story of the Pharos Lighthouse continues to captivate and inspire generations to come.

Contents