The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa date to the second century CE and form the largest Roman burial site in Egypt. A spiral staircase leads down past a round shaft into a rock-cut world of corridors, side chambers and a banqueting room where mourners once held funeral feasts. What makes them unique is the art: carvings mix Egyptian, Greek and Roman styles, so jackal-headed Anubis appears in a legionary's armour and a sacred bull is rendered in a classical frame. The name means mound of shards, after the broken pottery that once piled up above ground. The lowest level is flooded, so visitors see only the upper galleries. It is cool, quiet and close to Pompey's Pillar, which makes the two an easy pair.
What you will see
After the staircase, the rotunda and the triclinium, with stone benches for funeral banquets, lead to the main tomb chamber. Here the carved pilasters, the sarcophagi and the doorway reliefs show how Alexandria's mixed population blended its beliefs. Corridors around the complex hold many burial niches cut into the rock.
Tips for visiting
The passages are narrow, the steps are uneven and the air is cool and slightly damp, so wear shoes with grip and keep an eye on your head. The site is not suitable for people who struggle with stairs, and visitors who dislike enclosed spaces may prefer to stay in the upper chambers. Photography rules can change, so ask at the entrance before you take out a camera.
Making it work
Most guided Alexandria days combine the catacombs with Pompey's Pillar, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Library, with a seafood lunch to finish. Allow about an hour on site, and go early to avoid tour groups squeezing into the narrow passages together. The quarter around the site is residential and busy, so use a pre-arranged driver or a ride-hailing app to get there.
What to expect
The experience
A guided or self-guided descent through rock-cut tomb chambers on the upper levels, with carved reliefs and a funeral banquet hall.
Best time
Early on a weekday before tour groups arrive, since the passages are narrow.
How long
About an hour on site, plus transfer time from your hotel or port.
Tips
Wear grippy shoes, mind the low ceilings and uneven steps, and ask about camera rules at the gate.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers and anyone drawn to unusual, atmospheric places.
- Families
- Fine for older children who can manage stairs, but not ideal for toddlers or strollers.
- Couples
- A memorable, cool escape on a hot day, followed by lunch by the sea.
- Pair with
- Pompey's Pillar and the Serapeum, which are a short ride away.
- Time needed
- One hour.
Good questions
Why are the catacombs famous?+
They blend Egyptian, Greek and Roman art in a single tomb, such as Anubis dressed as a Roman soldier. They are also the largest Roman burial site in Egypt.
Can I visit the lowest level?+
No, the lowest level is flooded, so visitors see only the upper galleries. The upper chambers still cover the best carvings.
Is it suitable for visitors with limited mobility?+
Not easily, because there is a spiral staircase and uneven passages with low ceilings. Those who find steps difficult may prefer to skip the descent.
How long does a visit take?+
Most visitors spend around an hour inside. Add time for travel, since the site is in a busy residential area.
Can I photograph inside?+
Rules vary and sometimes a camera fee applies, so ask at the entrance. Flash is usually discouraged to protect the carvings.
