The Lighthouse of Alexandria was a towering structure that stood on the Pharos Island in Alexandria, EGYPT. It was commissioned by Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the second king of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, and designed by the Greek architect Sostratus of Cnidus. Construction began in 280 BC and was completed in 247 BC.
The lighthouse was one of the tallest man-made structures in the world at the time, standing at an estimated height of 120 meters. It was built with three distinct sections: a square base, an octagonal middle section, and a circular upper section that housed the light. The light was produced by a fire burning in a bronze brazier, and it was reflected by a series of mirrors. The lighthouse's beam of light was visible for up to 50 miles (80 kilometers) at sea, making the light an invaluable aid to navigation for ships sailing in the Mediterranean Sea.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria was not only a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of Alexandria's power and prosperity. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and it remained in operation for over 1,000 years.
• The lighthouse was made of limestone, sandstone, and granite.
• It was decorated with statues and reliefs of gods and heroes.
• A spiral ramp led to the top of the lighthouse.
• There was a library and a living quarters for the lighthouse keepers at the base of the lighthouse.
The lighthouse was severely damaged by a series of earthquakes in the 7th and 14th centuries A D. It was eventually abandoned and fell into ruins. In the 15th century, the remains of the lighthouse were used to build a fort, which was later destroyed by the Ottomans in the 18th century. Today, all that remains of the Lighthouse of Alexandria is a few scattered stones and a pile of rubble. However, its legacy lives on, and it continues to be one of the most famous and celebrated structures in history.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria was a remarkable achievement of engineering and architecture. It had a profound impact on the world. It made a major contribution to maritime safety. The lighthouse's legacy lives on, and it continues to inspire people today.
