The Pharos of Alexandria – Wonder 7/7 (ca. 247 BC)
Built in the 3rd century BC on the island of Pharos in Alexandria, Egypt, the Pharos of Alexandria was constructed initially as a landmark to help guide ships into the flat, harbor coastline of the city. The island was connected to the mainland through a man-made landbridge called the Heptastadion, which formed one side of the harbor, and it was only later in the 1st century AD that reflective mirrors and fire were added for its use as a lighthouse.
The Pharos’ construction was initiated by Ptolemy Soter around 290 BC, but was completed during the reign of his son, Ptolemy Philadelphus. The architect for the project was a man named Sostratus, who worked on his calculations and drawings at the Library of Alexandria.
Dedicated to the “savior gods” Ptolemy Soter and his wife Berenice, the Lighthouse gained such notoriety that it was later depicted on Roman coins that were circulated around the entire empire. Its outer layer was constructed of marble slabs, while the inner mirror was reputed to reflect light that could be seen up to 50km away! Another legend also stated that the mirror could be used to detect and burn enemy ships before they reached the shore, however this should simply be taken for what it is: a legend.
Several earthquakes in 1303 and 1323 caused significant damage to the structure of the lighthouse, and by 1349, the doorway was completely inaccessible. However, the Pharos was the last of the Seven Ancient Wonders to survive, and thus we have accurate knowledge of its exact location and outer appearance. Even today, remains from the Pharos stand reused as portions of the walls for a medieval fort built in 1480 AD, known as Fort Qaitby – constructed on the exact spot where the Lighthouse once stood.
Tomorrow: A gladiator graveyard?
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