Which ancient wonder stood on the island of Pharos beside Alexandria?

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The Lighthouse of Alexandria stood on the island of Pharos beside Alexandria.

Built during the Ptolemaic period, the lighthouse guided ships toward Alexandria’s busy harbor. Its location on Pharos gave rise to the word “pharos,” which entered several modern languages as a term connected with a lighthouse.

The structure was traditionally attributed to the architect Sostratus of Cnidus, though the precise role of his patron and the wording of its inscriptions are discussed by ancient sources. It consisted of multiple levels and was topped by a light or fire visible from the sea.

Earthquakes damaged the lighthouse over many centuries. Its stones were eventually reused in later construction, including the Qaitbay Citadel, which stands near the traditional site today.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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