Pompey’s PillarPompey’s PillarPompey’s Pillar

Pompey’s Pillar, a notable historical landmark in Alexandria, Egypt, offers a glimpse into the Greco-Roman period. Here’s a detailed overview:

Location and Description

• Height: The pillar stands 27 meters tall.
• Material: Made of granite.
• Sphinxes: Flanked by two sphinxes on either side.

Historical Context

• Temple of Serapuem: The pillar is the remaining part of the Serapuem Temple, dedicated to Serapis, a deity popular during the Greco-Roman era in Egypt.
• Construction Date: The temple was constructed in 297 AD.
• Misattribution: The column was mistakenly named after the Roman military leader Pompey, who was assassinated in Egypt in 48 BC. Midlevel travelers believed that he was buried at this site.
• Significance: The Serapuem was noted in historical records as the second-largest religious site in the Roman Empire.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

• Greco-Roman Influence: The pillar and the temple site reflect the cultural and architectural blend of Greek and Roman influences in Egypt.
• Symbol of Alexandria’s Heritage: The column is a prominent symbol of Alexandria’s rich and diverse historical past.

Pompey’s Pillar stands as a testament to the historical depth of Alexandria, bridging the city’s past with the present and offering visitors a tangible connection to the ancient world.