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Necropolis · Alexandria, Alexandria
Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
Rock-cut catacombs from the 1st and 2nd centuries, with three levels of galleries and tombs that blend Egyptian, Greek and Roman art.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are in the Karmouz neighborhood in western Alexandria. They are a complex of rock-cut tombs in three levels, from the 1st and 2nd centuries, originally built for a wealthy family and later expanded for additional burials.
A spiral staircase descends around a shaft to the banquet hall and the main tomb, decorated with reliefs that blend Egyptian, Greek and Roman art: Egyptian gods in Roman dress and serpents with Greek heads. The lowest level is flooded.
They were rediscovered by accident in 1900 when a donkey fell into a hole in the ground. In the site’s garden there are other tombs and sarcophagi brought from elsewhere in the city.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour.
Best time
In the morning, together with Pompey’s Pillar, about 1 km away.
How to get there
By taxi, in the Karmouz neighborhood, about 4 km from the center.
Tip
Combine the visit with Pompey’s Pillar, a few minutes away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
What are the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa?
Tombs carved into the rock on three levels, from the 1st and 2nd centuries, with art that blends Egyptian, Greek and Roman styles.
How were the catacombs discovered?
By chance, in 1900, when a donkey fell into a hole in the ground.
Where are the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa?
In the Karmouz neighborhood, in western Alexandria, near Pompey's Column.