Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa & the Serapeum of Alexandria Tour

What’s truly fascinating about Kom el Shoqafa is how Egyptian beliefs in the afterlife mix with Roman and Greek artistic touches. You’ll see statues of Egyptian gods dressed in Roman armor, carvings in both hieroglyphic and Greek styles, and chambers designed with intricate spiral staircases. It’s an incredible visual story of how ancient Alexandria was a meeting point of civilizations.

The Catacombs descend about 20 meters below ground through a spiral staircase that leads to several levels of tombs and chambers. The main hall includes a banquet area where families once held memorial feasts for the dead, a tradition that shows how ancient Egyptians celebrated life even in death.

The tombs originally belonged to a wealthy Alexandrian family who lived during the Roman period. Over time, the site expanded and was used by others, possibly members of the same social class. No royal burials were found here, but the elaborate artwork and structure reflect the wealth and cultural influence of Alexandria’s elite.

The Serapeum was a grand temple dedicated to Serapis, a deity created by merging Egyptian and Greek gods to unite the city’s diverse population. It once stood as one of the greatest temples of the Hellenistic world, symbolizing Alexandria’s spirit of cultural fusion.

Pompey’s Pillar is the only remaining column from the Serapeum complex. It’s a massive 27-meter granite column built in honor of the Roman Emperor Diocletian around the 3rd century AD. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with Pompey the Great. The pillar is one of the most iconic landmarks in Alexandria and offers a glimpse into the city’s grandeur under Roman rule.

Around the base of Pompey’s Pillar, you’ll find remains of the Serapeum, underground passages, and sphinx statues that once lined the sacred pathway. Your guide will share stories of the temple’s destruction, its connection to the ancient Library of Alexandria, and how it became a symbol of the city’s endurance.

Together, they show how Alexandria was a city of coexistence and creativity. Egyptian traditions merged with Greek philosophy and Roman architecture, shaping a culture that was unlike anywhere else in the ancient world. Visiting both sites in one day gives you a complete picture of Alexandria’s unique identity.

Photography inside the Catacombs is limited to protect the carvings and delicate environment, but you can take photos outside and in designated areas. The Serapeum and Pompey’s Pillar, on the other hand, are open-air sites and perfect for photos.

This tour focuses on ancient Alexandria rather than the modern city. It takes you below the surface—literally and historically—to uncover the secrets of Egypt’s Greco-Roman era. With an Egyptologist guide explaining every detail, it’s an immersive experience that brings Alexandria’s forgotten stories back to life.

It’s cool, quiet, and mysterious. The stone corridors are lit just enough to reveal the carvings and statues, creating an otherworldly feeling. Walking through them feels like stepping back two thousand years into the heart of ancient Alexandria.