The Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria, located in the historic Kom El-Dikka district, stands as one of Egypt's most prominent archaeological landmarks and the only fully preserved Roman theater in the country. If you are planning a trip to the Pearl of the Mediterranean, exploring its ancient Roman architecture, the famous Villa of the Birds, and the surrounding Roman baths is an unmissable experience.
In this comprehensive travel guide, we cover everything you need to know before your visit: from the location of the Roman Amphitheater and how to get there from Misr Station, to updated ticket prices and daily operating hours, as well as its fascinating discovery story and the top nearby attractions and hotels to ensure a seamless trip.
Table of Contents
- 1. Location and Essential Information
- 2. History, Discovery, and Architecture
- 3. Planning Your Visit (Hours and Tickets)
- 4. How to Get There and Nearby Amenities
- 5. Tours, Photography, and Events
1. Location and Essential Information
1. Where is the Roman Amphitheater located in Alexandria? (Location and Map Guide)
The Roman Amphitheater is located in the heart of Alexandria within the historic Kom El-Dikka district, specifically on Youssef Street (commonly known as Theater Street). It boasts a central location just a few minutes' walk from Misr Station (Alexandria's main railway station) and Shohada Square.
2. Why was the Kom El-Dikka district given this name? (Discovering the local name for the Roman Amphitheater)
The name dates back to the 19th century when the French engineer "Gannibial" filled the area with excavation debris from the Mahmoudiya Canal and city redevelopment. This soil accumulated into a high hill or mound resembling a "Dikka" (a raised bench or settee), keeping the Roman Amphitheater buried and preserved beneath it until its accidental discovery.
3. The Official Website for the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria (and Wikipedia Info)
The site is administratively and financially managed by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (Supreme Council of Antiquities). Visitors and researchers can access official information and documents via the Ministry's official portal or consult academic historical documentation through the "Kom El-Dikka" page on Wikipedia.
2. History, Discovery, and Architecture
4. History of the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria: When was it built, and what was it used for?
The theater was established in the 4th century AD during the Roman era and remained in use and adapted through the Byzantine period (7th century AD). It was not merely a theatrical venue; it functioned as an "Odeon" (an enclosed auditorium) used for official celebrations, musical performances, political assemblies, and scholarly debates.
5. The Story of the 1960 Excavation of Kom El-Dikka and the Roman Amphitheater (The Polish Mission)
The site was discovered in 1960 by chance while clearing the earth mound (Kom El-Dikka) in search of Alexander the Great's tomb. The Polish Archaeological Mission, in collaboration with the Egyptian Antiquities Department, conducted excavations and uncovered the only fully intact Roman amphitheater discovered in Egypt to date.
6. Architecture of the Roman Amphitheater: Dimensions, Building Materials, and Post-Earthquake Restorations
The structure consists of a semi-circular, U-shaped auditorium featuring 13 tiered rows inscribed with Greek characters and numbers to organize seating. White and gray marble was used for the seating tiers, except for the first row, which was crafted from pink granite reserved for VIPs. It was originally crowned with 18 granite columns. Following a destructive earthquake in the 6th century AD, the building was restored and repurposed into a lecture and assembly hall.
7. Inside the Roman Amphitheater: Seating Layout, Roman Baths, and Secret Tunnels
The auditorium accommodates approximately 600 to 800 spectators. The surrounding archaeological complex includes:
- Villa of the Birds: A 2nd-century AD residence featuring rare mosaic floor panels depicting various birds.
- Ancient University of Alexandria: A complex of 22 tiered lecture halls used for teaching.
- Roman Baths and Cisterns: A large public bathhouse complex alongside a network of underground tunnels and cisterns used for water storage and servicing performers and staff.
3. Planning Your Visit (Hours and Tickets)
8. Operating Hours of the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria (Summer, Winter, and Holidays)
- Standard Hours: The site opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (including Fridays and public holidays).
- During Ramadan: Operating hours are typically adjusted to close at 4:00 PM.
9. Ticket Prices for the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria and Online Booking
Tickets include entry to the Roman Amphitheater, the Villa of the Birds, and the Open-Air Museum:
- Egyptian Citizens: Equivalent to approximately $0.80 USD (~40 EGP) | Egyptian Students: $0.40 USD (~20 EGP).
- Foreign Visitors: Equivalent to approximately $3.20 USD (~160 EGP) | Foreign Students: $1.60 USD (~80 EGP).
- Note: Ticket prices are listed in USD and their EGP equivalent based on the exchange rate at the time of writing and are subject to change. Please note that ticket window purchases are cashless (bank card/Visa payments only), or tickets can be booked online in advance via the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities portal.
10. How long does a visit to the Roman Amphitheater take? When is the best time to visit?
A comprehensive tour of all internal site features takes between 1 to 2 hours. The best time to visit is in the early morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) to avoid direct sunlight and large tour group crowds.
11. TripAdvisor Review for the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria: Is it worth visiting?
The site maintains a high 4 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor. It comes highly recommended for travelers seeking an authentic view of well-preserved Greco-Roman history right in the heart of Alexandria.
4. How to Get There and Nearby Amenities
12. How to get to the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria? (Nearest Train Station and Transport)
The easiest way to reach the site is to arrive at Misr Station (the main railway station) and walk for about 5 minutes. You can also use ride-hailing services (Uber/InDrive) or take the local tram, getting off at "Jamea El-Attarine" or "Kom El-Dikka" station.
13. Walking Distance and Route Between the Roman Amphitheater, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, or Qaitbay Citadel
- To the Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Approximately 1.5 km away (a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute drive).
- To the Citadel of Qaitbay: Approximately 4 km away (a 15-minute drive via the Corniche road).
14. Top Attractions, Hotels, and Restaurants Near the Roman Amphitheater in Kom El-Dikka
- Nearby Attractions: Alexandria National Museum, Mahattat El-Raml, and the historic El-Attarine Souk.
- Nearby Hotels: Steigenberger Cecil Hotel and Paradise Inn Le Metropole Hotel.
- Restaurants & Cafes: Kadoura Seafood Restaurant, Alban El-Swissry, and historic cafes around the Mahattat El-Raml area.
15. Rules for Visiting the Roman Amphitheater and Available Facilities
- Rules & Regulations: Touching artifacts, climbing on columns or marble tiers, bringing heavy food, or bringing pets is strictly prohibited.
- Facilities: Paved pathways are available in main areas to facilitate access for wheelchair users and strollers, along with clean on-site restroom facilities.
5. Tours, Photography, and Events
16. Your Guide to Booking a Guided Tour of the Roman Amphitheater and Pompey's Pillar
Guided tours can be arranged through local travel agencies in Alexandria or online platforms (such as GetYourGuide and Viator). Half-day tour packages typically include a licensed tour guide and cover the Roman Amphitheater, Pompey's Pillar, and the Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa.
17. Photography Permits at the Roman Amphitheater (Weddings and Drones)
- Personal Photography: Permitted free of charge using smartphones or personal handheld cameras (without flash or tripods).
- Wedding Shoot & Commercial Photography: Requires paying a fee and securing a permit in advance from the site's antiquities office.
- Drone Photography: Strictly prohibited under Egyptian law unless formal, advance security clearances are obtained.
18. Events and Concerts at the Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria (and the Difference from a Greek Theater)
The theater stage hosts live artistic performances and the annual Roman Amphitheater Summer Festival, organized under the auspices of the Cairo Opera House.
- Architectural Difference: A Roman amphitheater is a free-standing, fully constructed semi-circular structure (Odeon) enclosed by a rear wall and a defined orchestra area. In contrast, an ancient Greek theater was carved directly into a natural hillside or slope, opening up behind the stage to views of the surrounding landscape and city.