Truly Love Egypt: Alexandria nov 2014 issue 6

Truly Love Egypt Alexandria

November 2014 Issue 6

Al Montazah Palace gardens Greco-Roman Museum Greek cuisine Beef Liver recipe

PLEASE TURN ON YOUR SOUND

The song that is playing is Ana Bahebak Aktar by Amr Diab and Greek singer Angela Dimitriou

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE How Alexandria came to be; Rhacotis

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TRULY LOVE NATURE Al Montazah Palace gardens

Cont 6 Al Montazah Palace grounds

10 TRULY LOVE DAY ACTIVITIES Pharaonic, Greek and Roman

12 SCRAPBOOK PAGE 10 The Alexandria National Museum

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tents

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TRULY LOVE HISTORY The Greco – Roman Museum

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TRULY LOVE SHOPPING Luxury shopping and amazing local markets

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TRULY LOVE NIGHTLIFE It is mostly Greek to me!

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TRULY LOVE INVESTING The middle classes await your investment!

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TRULY LOVE CUISINES Beef Liver: Alexandria style

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UPCOMING ISSUE

14 The Greco-Roman Museum

24 Greek food with a great view of the Mediterranean

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Three-dimensional reconstruction of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, based on a comprehensive 2006 study.

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE Our mission is to deliver the most accurate, up-to-date information in order to show different kinds of visitors what may interest them.

Founded in 332 B.C. by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was the Greek center in Egypt and the link between Macedonia and the rich Nile Valley. An Egyptian townlet, Rhacotis, already stood on the shore and was inhabited by fishermen. Alexander occupied Pharos Island just off the shore and had a walled city marked out on the mainland to include Rhacotis. A few months later, he left Egypt for the East and returned as a corpse to be buried there. Cleomenes continued the creation of Alexandria and it soon became the center of the new commerce between Europe and the East.

Hellenistic Alexandria was best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, its Great Library (the largest in the ancient world) and the Necropolis. Alexandria was the second largest city in the world after Rome. It was also the greatest Jewish city in the world.

Under Roman jurisdiction, which started in 80 B.C., Alexandria bore witness to the last Egyptian Pharoah’s romances; Cleopatra’s romance with Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony. Later, Byzantine Ale xa nd ria ac q uire d fres h importance as a centre of Christian

theology and church government.

Thro ug ho ut it s life sp a n, Alexandria was the capital of Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine Egypt until the Muslim conquest of Egypt in AD 641, when a new capital was founded at Fustat (now a district of Cairo).

From the late 19th century, Alexandria became a major center of the international shipping industry and one of the most important trading centers in the world. It is the second largest city in Egypt after Greater Cairo by size and population, extending about 32 km along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is also the largest city lying directly on the Mediterranean coast. Alexandria is Egypt's largest seaport, serving approximately 80% of Egypt's imports and exports. Alexandria is also an important tourist resort.

This is partly due to its lovely weather. Summers are sunny and cool but sometimes humid and winters are cold and windy.

Alexandria is 200 km away from Cairo and there are plenty of trains and coaches that connect them.

There is also an international airport and a seaport for international cruise liners.

Manager, Editor and Designer

Amani Adel Sarkiss

Manager, Editor and Designer Amani Adel Sarkiss

Freelance Writers Aisha Abdelwahab Basma Amer Heba Ghoneim

Photography Ahmed Yaqub: p26 & 27 Silvia Pavolini: cover, p13 corniche, p22 Amal Sarkiss: p29 Yahoo Images: all other photos

Ideas and content are copyright and property of Sarkiss Publicity and Advertising Registered in Egypt: 64958 truly-love-egypt@sarkiss.net 5

TRULY LOVE NATURE

By Basma Amer

Alexandria, Egypt’s second largest city, is a spectacular coastal city full of beauty. It flows right along the Mediterranean Sea, creating a serene atmosphere despite the hustle and bustle of cars in the background. The seafront promenade, the “Corniche”, is the perfect place to experience this view, while still enjoying the excitement of the city. However, if you have a quieter place in mind, a trip to the Al Montazah Palace Garden is a must-see.

Located on the Eastern edge of the city awaits the once summer residence of Khedive Abbas II, now known as the Al Montazah Palace Garden. There are two palaces built in the garden: Al Salamlek, which was a hunting lodge, and the larger Al Haramlek, which was built for King Fouad. Al Haramlek is known for its exotic architecture, combining Gothic, Islamic and Byzantine styles. It was designed to be a place only women could enter and was decorated using baroque and Rococo elements.

Al Montazah is a breathtaking display of timeless beauty. Its cultural complexity and ravishing gardens create an everlasting dynamic exquisiteness. The deep blue background, created by the Mediterranean, compliments the greenery throughout the garden. There are many pathways extending throughout the garden, giving you the opportunity to explore the land. In addition to the natural beauty of the garden, the landscape designs add elegance.

There are pillars, old-fashioned staircases and a Cont.

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garden of palm trees. As you approach the sea, the view changes and along with it the landscape. There’s more of a rustic feel; more sand and rock infused with the greenery. When combined with the palaces in the background, it takes you to the luxurious times of the Byzantine Empire.

Al Haramlek has been a presidential residence for many years and Al Salamlek has been a hotel. There are also cafes, restaurants and picnic pergolas. On the remaining grounds, you should consider taking a nature-walk through the gardens of the once majestic palace. This will

allow you to see the many hidden beauties within it. You’ll enjoy the view of the tropical plants and numerous types of trees. Some plants there are quite rare. As you are making your way towards the yacht-port, be sure to stop and look around at the variety of natural masterpieces, such as the catania, Zamia, carlota, and the range of palm trees. Some other plants include anthurium, hokiry, araliaceae, victoria, and ropilia. During your walk, make your way across the Renaissance bridge to rent a yacht and enjoy the rest of your nature site-seeing with a cruise on the stunning Mediterranean Sea. 9

TRULY LOVE DAY ACTIVITIES Egypt’s Atlantis Alexandria, a combination of exotic architecture and diverse history, is named after Alexander the Great and was, once, the home to the last Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Cleopatra. The city, currently known as Cleopatra’s Palace, was built by Alexander the Great and is now submerged under the Mediterranean Sea. It is the perfect opportunity to explore a whole new world. The dive-site contains ruins, statues and artifacts thousands of years old.

But the ancient palace is not the world submerged under this sea. Another spectacular place to set your eyes on is Omu Sukan. It consists of a reef wall extending sixty meters deep into the sea. In the reef lives a diversity 10

By Basma Amer

of sea life: various kinds of fish, moray, eagle rays and octopus.

Where else to find Greece and Rome in Alexandria However, if you are not too keen on an underwater adventure or if you prefer to continue your explorations on land, I would advise visiting the Alexandria National Museum. There is a whole floor dedicated to the Greco-Roman Period. There you can appreciate the variety of artifacts on display, such as statues, perfume vessels and Pompey’s Pillar, just to name a few. Then head down to the Roman Theater and enjoy the scenery.

Only a part of the theater is still intact, but there are many statues and artifacts surrounding the arena itself. There are no

labels or signs, so it’s best to hire a tour guide if the facts are what you are after.

Other Activities After your historical view of the city, make your way down to the corniche and prepare yourself for the hypnotic view of the sea’s soothing sight. You may stroll along the corniche while still enjoying the city life. Or revel in the same scene at Al-Montazah Palace Gardens, but in a calmer atmosphere. Take a walk through Al Montazah’s gardens, full of pathways and the beautiful bridge of Montazah. If your heart’s desire is for a faster-pace relaxation-mode, then there is the option of bike riding.

If, however, your definition of relaxation is

peaceful and steady, have a picnic with friends, family or that special someone. After a relaxing time on shore, make your way back to the sea and enjoy a cruise across the sea with a view of the city.

Tips Cleopatra’s Palace: Call the dive center two days in advance and have your passport information available.

Alexandria National Museum: Photography is prohibited in the museum.

Working hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Regular ticket: $6 Student ticket: $3 Roman Theater: Regular ticket: $3 11

SCRAPBOOK PAGE

Cleopatra’s underwater palace

TRULY LOVE HISTORY

By Aisha AbdelWahab Alexandria: one of the few places where

a whole other different ancient world on its

three major ancient cultures unite to create

own. The museum was first built in 1982 in

a beautiful outcome. However, this isn't

a small apartment. As the years went by, the

just any mix between any three cultures.

management came to the conclusion that

This is the Pharaonic culture meeting up

this apartment could only take up a certain

with the Greco-Roman cultures.

limited number of ancient artifacts. There

The Greco-Roman Museum is a journey

was just so much to put on display to show

through an ancient world in a country with

the rest of the world. So as of 1895, the Cont.

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museum was relocated to its present site; in

in later centuries. Another example is how

Downtown Alexandria near Gamal Abdul

Egyptian and Greek techniques influenced

Nasser Road. In 1895, it counted only 11

one another as is evident from the display in

galleries, but after some renovations, and as

room 11 of the museum.

of 1984, the museum counts 25 galleries.

Some of the artifacts, such as coins, date

These galleries take up to 40,000 objects, all

back to 630 BC and some are as recent as the

ranging

to

19th century. The museum captures different

woodwork and sculptures. Through them,

eras and various historical events related to

you get to witness how these cultures

the Greco-Roman culture, which is surely

mingled into one; for example the collection

going to leave a lasting memory and may

on general display which portrays religion

need a revisit to absorb all of its fascinating

and society sheds light on how these evolved

facets.

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from

coins

and

mosaics

Be sure to visit the garden situated right

● Tickets cost around $2.50 for adults and

outside of the museum, encompassing Greco

$1.50 for students.

-Roman sculptures and lush green trees. It is

● If you're going by taxi, ask for "Al Met-haf

a step back in time where you feel as if you

el-Yunnani el-Romani", which is Arabic for

were one of the beautiful Greco-Roman gods

the Greco-Roman Museum, as there are

or goddesses, an experience you wouldn't

plenty of other museums in Alexandria.

want to miss.

● The museum is wheelchair accessible.

Additional information:

If you would like some other additional

● Open daily from 9 PM to 4 PM and from

information, call the museum on (03) 487

11:30 AM to 1:30 AM on Fridays.

6434.

TRULY LOVE SHOPPING

By Aisha AbdelWahab So you want to find a spot where you can shop endlessly, feel like you are in ancient Rome or Greece but still have this Middle Eastern-ish vibe and have it preferably by the sea? It is all here in Alexandria, which can be easily defined as an amazing city, with lots of malls, coffee shops, restaurants, random weird products etc. So it is time to ask you to put your shoes on, along with a comfortable outfit, so we can get started on this wanted, and very much needed, shopping spree.

We should start with the malls, which are getting more and more popular in Alexandria and are only getting larger by the minute. There are several ones to choose from: ones with all of the latest trends, ones for people who like to stand out, others for evening wear and just about any type of store you could think of. Some malls are humungous, with one of them containing 370 shops. Getting lost in a mall should not worry you in the least! You will, without a doubt, find your way through a mall either by asking the numerous security guards there or by referring to the mall's plan that is placed just about everywhere in the building(s).

Since most malls are extremely big, you will find a great number of coffee shops and restaurants sprawled here and there for a break or maybe for a much needed coffee.

Cont.

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Antique shops in Souq El Attarin

The next shopping destination is in Downtown Alexandria as there is a high concentration of shops there, some with a great variety of products and others with specialized ones. Some of the salespeople might invade your personal space. There is no need to freak out.

They are just being friendly or are overexcited by the fact that you are a foreigner. In both cases, the person means no harm. You can, of course, explain to him that it makes you feel uncomfortable and he will kindly step back.

My final destination for you is the local markets. These are my personal favorites as they are where to find genuine and organic products. One of the major local markets are Souq El Kheit, which means “market of threads” so there is no need for an explanation as to what might be there as the name says it all. Another local market is Souq El Attarin, which is an interconnection of different streets full of different kinds of stands and shops displaying traditional clothes, 20

trendy jewelry, great souvenirs, antiques, spices and unique handicrafts such as lamps, paintings and others.

Within the latter, there is Zan'at El Sitat, meaning “ladies’ jam”. It is a shopping area specifically made for the female shoppers out there. You will find all sorts of things that you might need; undergarments, special kinds of natural products for skincare, hair and others. It is basically the "made for females" products haven.

The local markets tend to be overcrowded sometimes, but the items you can find there will certainly be worth the trip and the hassle.

With hopes for always having a great shopping spree and having the exact amount of money you might need for that one item that has caught your eye, I'll be gone, planning another destination that can keep you busy for another month and looking forward to reading about your experience. Have a great month!

TRULY LOVE NIGHTLIFE

By Heba Ghoneim

Alexandria’s beauty is majestic. Nothing defines its exquisiteness more than Dalida, a famous Egyptian French singer, when she sang, “Wow at its scenery!” My cousin and I used to sing that verse a million times when we were young, and whenever our parents asked us where we wanted to go, we would shout out, “Alexandria, the best people!” which is another verse in Dalida’s song. It is no wonder that Alexander conquered Egypt and made Alexandria his capital; its beauty and location alone make it a wonderful place. And even though Alexandria is a small city compared to Cairo, it has charming nightly places to go to.

Your bucket list should include walking on Alexandria’s corniche and, even better, walking in Al Montazah Palace gardens! It is safer, there are pretty gardens around the palace, and you can see the sea splashing against its fence. In addition, there is a fantastic restaurant at the hotel nearby that serves delightful food. There are also fast food chains in case you feel like grabbing a quick fulfilling bite.

Al Montazah Palace is not the only place where you can find sublime scenery and food. Listening to the waves of the sea while eating different heavenly cuisines is what Alexandria is all about. All around Alexandria’s corniche are different restaurants and cafes. My friend Amgad recommends a Greek oriented restaurant located on the corniche. It is his favorite place to go to at night as their “food is great and the view is amazing because this is the bay where all the fishing boats are

anchored”. He believes that they sell the best seafood and Greek cuisine in general.

However, this isn’t the only place that makes enriched Greek cuisine. There are quite a few restaurants near Raml Station that are well-known for their Greek cuisine.

The best restaurant, according to a number of people, has a mix of Egyptian, Lebanese and Greek cuisine. They also serve the finest alcohol beverages. After you indulge in fine food, you might want to order some dessert. Nothing screams out sweet tooth like a well-known, flavorful ice cream place. This ice cream shop is located on the corniche.

Who said you can learn about the Egyptian culture only?

Near Raml Station, there are diverse cultural centers; including French, Russian, and Spanish. These centers often show movies in their own language. I think it is beautiful that all humans forget their Cont.

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troubles and come together in one single place to watch a movie. So if you ever visit Alexandria, this is a definite place to go to.

Ever wondered what pastry shops looked like long ago? Well, there is no need to wonder because this shop has preserved all of its details and antique like aesthetics. It is not just a pretty place; the sweet pastries are delectable. This historic pastry shop is also located near Raml Station. According to my friend, it was founded in 1922, and that is probably why it is the go to place for classy, old-fashioned Alexandrians.

However, if you feel like combining music and culture, Said Darwish’s opera house is your answer! This classic opera house is located in Fouad’s street. You are bound to enjoy it especially if you love music like I do.

Regardless of how fun your day was, it is

always pleasant to dive into your bed and relax. Since Alexandria is a coastal city, all of the hotels are located near the sea. If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, there is a wellknown one that everyone loves. It is outstandingly beautiful!

And if you feel like watching life from the comfort of the balcony of your hotel room, you will find all kinds of humans passing by.

You will see a person grilling corn on the sidewalk, which is a trademark of the corniche, a family warmly walking by and a couple romantically strolling along under the romantic lights of Alexandria. The reflections of the lights are breathtaking, and you can see all of that from your balcony.

Wishes to the reader If you ever visit Alexandria, we wish you a pleasant journey! Don’t forget to email us with your experience. :D

TRULY LOVE INVESTING

By Amani Sarkiss

This section is dedicated to small and medium sized investors looking for possibilities to invest their money from afar or move to a country where sunshine, sea and relaxation are a way of life.

Alexandria is a metropolis and, as such, has plenty of existing business as well as great potential for more.

Being right on the Mediterranean means Alexandria has some of the finest restaurants, including ones that specialize in seafood and others that specialize in international cuisines such as Indian, Thai, Italian, Greek etc. This is great for those 26

visiting the city but not enough for the city dwellers. Ihab Tadros, an Alexandrian who loves dining out, finds there is room for improvement. There is potential for more cuisines as well as more options of fine dining in general. Currently, there are only two seafood restaurants on the sea front.

That does not give the locals many to choose from.

Recreation centers for youth are another investment that should appeal to many.

Alexandria is a ‘long’ city in that if you live on one end, it takes a long time to get to the other end. It is difficult for many to get to the existing recreation centers due to traffic jams. Currently, there are only two bowling centers in the whole of Alexandria.

Recreation centers that include pool and snooker tables, a bowling alley and a roller skating ring would be a lucrative business here.

The common feeling of Alexandrians is that there is a need for centers in general.

Most cultural centers are near Raml Station which is, again, great for visitors but not so great for the locals. A possible idea is ‘world’ culture centers strategically spread out across Alexandria. Each would cover various cultures with a different focus each day, week or month. To turn this into a worthwhile business, annual memberships could be introduced.

Unlike Cairo, Alexandria has health spas only at hotels. These tend to be highly expensive so only the top classes in Alexandria use them. Private health spas that are reasonably priced would be great for the middle classes and a great money spinning machine.

Good public beaches for the middle classes are difficult to come by. There are plenty of public beaches for the lower end of the market but, unbelievably, they charge an arm and a leg to enter and are not wellkept. At the high end of the market, most people own their own vacation home in one of the beautiful resorts along the Mediterranean west of Alexandria; towards Marsa Matrouh. Five star hotels in Alexandria also own their private beaches but if you are not a resident, you would pay

with all your limbs to enter. Good, well kept and reasonably priced public beaches for the middle classes would find plenty of customers.

Another area that would benefit the middle classes in Alexandria is public transportation. The existing public transports are great for the top and the lower end of the market. Good public buses with rates set for the middle market would be beneficial for the locals as well as the investor.

Regulations and Safety Issues 1. Do not drink tap water.

2. Always negotiate and agree on the fare before using taxis.

3. Alexandria is a ‘long’ city and the streets are jam packed at times so take that into consideration when setting your schedule.

4. Although there is no real reason for it, it’s safer to keep your passport at your hotel.

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TRULY LOVE CUISINES

By Amal Sarkiss

Beef Liver: Alexandria Style

This beef liver dish is a popular one in Alexandria. It stands out because of its special marinade made from lime squeeze, onion juice, vinegar and spices.

Of all food of animal origin, liver is the highest source of iron and B vitamins. The lime in the marinade, with its vitamin C content, facilitates the absorption of iron.

This is a must try dish for its simplicity and high nutritional value.

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Preparation time

Cooking Time

Serves

20 min

15 min

3-4

Ingredients: ½ kg (1lb) beef liver

1 tsp cumin

1 lime squeeze

½ tsp paprika

Juice of 1 large onion (mince in a kitchen ma- ½ tsp chili (optional) chine then strain) 3 tbsp white vinegar

Green pepper (red and yellow pepper can also

1 tsp salt

be used)

1 tsp pepper

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

Directions: Cut the liver into thin strips.

Mix lime squeeze, onion juice and vinegar. Add salt, pepper and the spices and marinate the liver in the mix for 15 minutes.

In a frying pan, braise the garlic in oil for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Then add the liver and cook until the liver begins to change colour. Add the green pepper, cover the pan and reduce the heat. Cook for 3 minutes. Then add the chopped tomato and cook for 1 minute.

The fluid from the liver and its marinade will, of course, decrease but it should not be left to become completely dry.

Presentation: Serve hot with bread, tahina (also known as tahini) and a green salad.

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