The second largest city in modern-day Egypt and a centre of the ancient world, Alexandria is known as ‘the pearl of the Mediterranean’. Originally founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this ancient city has been home to Queen Cleopatra, the Pharos Lighthouse (Lighthouse of Alexandria) – one of the seven ancient wonders, and the Great Library of Alexandria. Today, the great weather, pleasant old-world charm and wealth of historic sites attract tourists from all over the world.