Which ancient wonder stood in Alexandria on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast?

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was the ancient wonder that stood on the island of Pharos beside Alexandria, Egypt.

Built during the Ptolemaic period, probably in the third century BCE, the lighthouse guided ships into the busy harbour of Alexandria. Ancient writers described it as a monumental tower with multiple levels, a fire at the summit, and a reflective surface that helped project its light. Its architect is traditionally identified as Sostratus of Cnidus.

The structure survived for centuries but was damaged by several earthquakes. By the medieval period, much of it had collapsed, and its stones were reused in the fortifications of the Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site in the 15th century.

The lighthouse gave the island its name in many languages. It is distinct from the Colossus of Rhodes, which stood on Rhodes, and the Temple of Artemis, which stood at Ephesus.