Cultural Forum 2018 - Our Archaeological Heritage: A Vision for the Future “Alexandria and Its Cultural Treasures”
13 March 2018
- 14 March 2018
Alexandria, Egypt
Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Auditorium
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The Bibliotheca Alexandrina Antiquities Museum is renewing its annual Cultural Forum with experts, professors, students, employees, those within the field of archaeology, and those with interest in our archaeological heritage. This cultural encounter will take place 13‒14 March 2018, under the subtitle: “Alexandria and Its Cultural Treasures”. It will tackle the vision of Alexandria and the importance of its archaeological heritage.
Alexandria was founded within the crossroads between ancient cultures. It has always been considered a modern city that reflects the brilliance of its founder, Alexander of Macedonia. Alexandria became one of the most important cities in the Ancient World, as it was known for its bright marble buildings, paved roads, and majestic palaces. The city was as magnificent as Rome and Athens. It became more significant after the founding of its ancient library—the beacon of the East at the time—to become the center of philosophies, sciences, and arts.
For 300 years, since the death of Alexander and the rise of the Roman Era, Alexandria did not only have a military influence over the Mediterranean Sea, but also economic and cultural influences. Not to mention that its lighthouse was considered one of the Seven Wanders of the Ancient World.
The ancient city of Alexandria was hidden for more than 2000 years behind a barrier of mysteries and myths. Until this very moment, none of the archaeologists have been able to determine the exact location of its palaces and temples. As such, the study of the representations of European travelers has been a fine evidence concerning the topographical development of the city. Modern excavations from the harbor towards the east of Alexandria has shed light—for the first time—on some of the most important archaeological discoveries known to Man; namely, the city agora and the palace of Cleopatra VII, one of the most famous monarchs of Ancient Egypt.