The Pharos of Alexandria, not just a marvel of engineering, was a beacon of safety for ancient mariners navigating to the Great Harbor. Unlike the other six wonders of the ancient world, the Pharos had a practical purpose, guiding sailors with its far-reaching light. Equipped with a reflective mirror, it could cast light over 35 miles offshore. The last of the six destroyed ancient wonders, it stood until around 1480 AD. Delve into the history of this architectural masterpiece, from its inception to its eventual demise, and discover the unique stories that surround its existence.
The city of Alexandria, founded by the Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great, was one of the seventeen cities he named after himself, but it was the one in Egypt that endured. Alexander's vision for the city was brought to fruition by his commander, Ptolemy I Soter, who later became the ruler of Egypt. Recognizing the perilous nature of the coastal waters, Ptolemy I initiated the construction of a lighthouse on the island of Pharos, connected to Alexandria by a causeway. This project began in 290 BC and was completed by his successor, Ptolemy II Philadelphus.
Sostratus of Cnidus, a contemporary of the mathematician Euclid, was the architect behind the Pharos. The lighthouse, completed around 280 BC, stood approximately 134 meters tall. Its design was unique, comprising three tiers: a square base, a hexagonal middle, and a circular top, on which a fire burned at night. The light was reflected by a mirror, possibly made of polished bronze, and served as a landmark for sailors for centuries.
The Pharos became so emblematic that it was depicted on Roman coins of the era. Arab conquerors, who later wrote extensively about the lighthouse, provided valuable historical accounts. However, with the capital's relocation to Cairo, Alexandria, and its lighthouse, lost their former prominence.
The structure withstood the test of time until a series of earthquakes in AD 956, 1303, and 1323 caused significant damage. By 1480, the Egyptian Mamelouk Sultan Qaitbay constructed a medieval fort on the site, marking the end of the Pharos's story.
An interesting anecdote involves Sostratus and his desire for recognition. Ptolemy II Philadelphus insisted on having his own name inscribed on the lighthouse, but Sostratus cleverly carved his name beneath a plaster bearing Ptolemy's name. Over time, the plaster eroded, revealing Sostratus's name.
The Pharos of Alexandria was so renowned that the word "Pharos" became synonymous with "lighthouse" in several languages, including French, Spanish, and Italian. Its influence extended beyond its physical presence, leaving an indelible mark on language and maritime history.
The Pharos of Alexandria stands out among the ancient wonders for its blend of grandeur and utility. Its light, a symbol of guidance and safety, shone across the Mediterranean for over a millennium. Today, the legacy of the Pharos continues to illuminate the rich tapestry of human history.
For more information on the Pharos of Alexandria and its historical context, you can visit the Smithsonian Magazine or explore resources at the Library of Alexandria.
