Pompey’s Pillar stands tall among the most iconic and enduring landmarks in the city of Alexandria, Egypt. Gloriously towering the remains of the Roman city, this great column has captured the imagination of historians, travelers, and archaeologists alike. Contrary to what the name suggests, Pompey’s Pillar has absolutely no relation to the Roman general Pompey the Great. Instead, it was erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian, a ruler who fairly etched his presence in the annals of Egypt.
Location and Setting of Pompey’s Pillar
The Pillar at Kampala rests amidst the ruins of the old Kom El-Dikka Roman theater and gymnasium complex, near the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, on a hill fostering unimpeded views of the city below. The area around the pillar is basically an archaeological site straddled with ruins of ancient temples, sphinxes, and underground galleries.
The site thus promises easy accessibility for its visitors and offers a stimulating historical experience. As one wanders through the ruins of the temple, one almost feels when the days of yore breathe down along with the divine spirit of Roman Alexandria.
History of the Monument
The name Pompey’s Pillar gives an impression of being related to Pompey the Great; however, the monument was erected in 297 AD in honor of Emperor Diocletian, who brought Alexandria back into a stage of peace and stability after the city had gone through periods of rebellion and famine. The locals appreciated Diocletian so much that they granted him this magnificent monument in his name.
The legends connecting the pillar to Pompey seem to have started during the Middle Ages when European travelers thought that the pillar was marking the spot for the burial of Pompey’s ashes. That myth, though debunked, has somehow stuck in the mindset of all subsequent visitors and, more importantly, has stayed as the name for the monument itself even until today.
Architectures
Pompey’s Pillar is one whole piece of red Aswan granite, a stone native to southern Egypt. Including its base and capital, the column itself is approximately 26.85 meters (88 feet) high. The shaft alone is estimated to weigh about 285 tons, one of the heaviest monoliths ever set up outside of Rome.
It is the only free-standing monolithic column of such size and style in all of Egypt; the monument is remarkably well-preserved, especially considering that more than 1,700 years have gone by during which some natural erosion and plenty of human interference have tried hard to wear it down.
Why Visit Pompey’s Pillar?
Visiting Pompey’s Pillar is as though one is going back in time. The place offers both the majesty of the pillar itself and the opportunity to delve into ancient Roman architecture beside sphinxes and remnants of the once-glorious Serapeum of Alexandria, a temple complex dedicated to the Greco-Egyptian god Serapis.
For photographers, the pillar is a dream come true to shoot — especially through sunrise or sunset hours, when the light pours and spills on the granite, its shadows leaping across the ruins.
For students and history buffs, it’s a vibrant, tangible link to a world of emperors, legends, and resilience.
Tips for Visitors
Opening hours: Usually opens at 9:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm.
Entry fee: Varies (approximately 80 EGP for foreigners and 20 EGP for Egyptians – check for new prices).
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Bring: Camera, water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes
There are small plaques providing historical information around the site, but if you can afford it, a guided tour or some prior reading will enrich your experience tremendously.
Pompey’s Pillar in Modern Culture
Today, Pompey’s Pillar remains an active symbol of Alexandria. It adorns postcards, maps in travel books, and plays a part in several local legends. Initially constructed for the commemoration of an emperor, the pillar has since gained new meanings through generations: as a testament of survival, of oblivion, and a fusion between Eastern and Western civilization in Egypt.
Pompey’s Pillar is far more than just a towering piece of stone — it is a story etched into granite: a story of political change, cultural fusion, and the timeless spirit of Alexandria. Be it your first trip to Egypt or a rediscovering tour of your heritage, Pompey’s Pillar must be marked on your list. Very few places bring Roman Egypt alive so vividly as this remarkable monument.
