Discovery Tours Egypt
AttractionAlexandria

Pompey's Pillar Entry Ticket

At a glance

Departs
Daily

The short answer

Pompey's Pillar entry ticket is a 1-day attraction admission covering Pompey's Pillar in Alexandria, arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt.
  • Cultural
  • Archaeology & history

Snapshot

Good to know

Destinations
Alexandria

Best time to go

The most comfortable months for visiting Alexandria are usually from October to April, when temperatures are milder and outdoor sightseeing is easier. Summer can feel hot and humid, so early morning or late afternoon visits are often preferable. During Ramadan and major public holidays, opening hours and visitor flow may change, so checking the official site before arrival is recommended.

02Overview

A first look

One shaft of polished red Aswan granite, nearly 90 feet tall, is all that rises today from the mound of the Serapeum — once the great temple of Serapis and an annex library of ancient Alexandria. Raised around 300 AD for the emperor Diocletian (the "Pompey" name is a medieval mix-up), the pillar stands over sphinxes and underground galleries you can still explore.

Your entry ticket arrives by email as a PDF. The site pairs easily with the Kom el-Shoqafa catacombs a short walk away; an Egyptologist guide can be added separately.

Background

The facts

Pompey's Pillar is a Roman-era monument in Alexandria, standing about 29.6 meters tall including its base. It was erected in the 3rd century AD and remains one of the largest ancient monolithic columns still standing outside Rome. The column is set within an archaeological precinct associated with the ancient Egyptian city of Rhakotis and later Roman Alexandria.

The ticket provides single-entry access to the monument area and the immediate site around the column. Visitors can view the red granite shaft, the Corinthian capital, and adjacent archaeological remains from the plaza and designated visitor areas. Access is self-guided and limited to the entrance area included with admission; any temporary closures, security procedures, and photography restrictions are controlled by the site authority.

Opening hours and last-admission times can change seasonally, and visitors are advised to check the official site information before traveling. Because the monument is outdoors and centrally located in Alexandria, the best time to visit is usually earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid stronger heat and heavier visitor traffic. A printed copy of the PDF e-ticket may be useful if the venue does not accept screen display on the day of visit.

Pompey's Pillar is close to Kom El Dikka and the central Alexandria city area, so it is typically reached easily by taxi or local transport from the city center and Alexandria railway area. The site is a short urban visit rather than a long excursion, making it suitable for travelers combining several Alexandria landmarks in one day.

Suited to

Is this for you?

Yes, if

  • This ticket is suitable for travelers who want a short self-guided stop focused on Roman Alexandria, especially history lovers, solo visitors, couples, and families with older children. It is also a practical option for visitors who prefer a low-commitment cultural visit with simple entry and no scheduled program.

What lingers

  • 01Single-entry access to the Roman triumphal column commonly known as Pompey's Pillar
  • 02See the granite shaft and the surviving capital from close range at the monument plaza
  • 03Learn the site's basic historical context from onsite panels and signage
  • 04Visit at your own pace, with no guided program included
  • 05Ticket delivered as a PDF by email, ready to print or present at the entrance gate

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Included

  • Pompey's Pillar entry ticket
  • E-ticket (PDF) delivered by email after booking

Not included

  • Professional Egyptologist or guide, bookable separately
  • Transport to or from Pompey's Pillar
  • Meals and drinks
  • Photography permit if required by the site authority
  • Any optional site fees or special-access supplements announced at the entrance

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

  1. 01What does my Pompey's Pillar entry ticket include?
    Your entry ticket grants you direct admission to the Pompey's Pillar complex in Alexandria. This includes access to the main column, the surrounding ruins of the Serapeum, and the sphinxes on site. It covers the standard entrance fee.
  2. 02What is not included with the Pompey's Pillar entry ticket?
    The entry ticket does not include an audio guide, a private guide, transportation to or from the site, or access to any special exhibitions that may require an additional fee. Food and beverages are also excluded.
  3. 03What are the opening hours for Pompey's Pillar?
    Pompey's Pillar opening hours typically vary seasonally. We recommend checking the official Ministry of Antiquities website closer to your visit date or arriving early in the morning to ensure entry during standard operating hours.
  4. 04What is the best time to visit Pompey's Pillar?
    The best time to visit Pompey's Pillar is generally in the early morning, shortly after opening, or late afternoon. This avoids the midday heat and larger crowds, offering a more comfortable experience and better light for photography.
  5. 05What is the photography policy at Pompey's Pillar?
    Photography rules at Pompey's Pillar typically allow personal photography without flash. However, policies can change, so we advise checking for any posted signs or asking staff at the entrance regarding current restrictions on cameras or tripods.
  6. 06Is Pompey's Pillar accessible for visitors with mobility concerns?
    The site around Pompey's Pillar involves walking on uneven ancient stone and some sandy areas. While the main column is visible from ground level, navigating the entire complex may present challenges for those with significant mobility concerns.
  7. 07Are there specific dress code requirements for visiting Pompey's Pillar?
    While there is no strict dress code for Pompey's Pillar, we recommend dressing respectfully and comfortably. Light, breathable clothing is advisable, along with sturdy walking shoes, as you will be exploring an outdoor archaeological site.
  8. 08How do I receive and use my Pompey's Pillar entry ticket?
    Your entry ticket will be delivered via email as a PDF attachment after your booking is confirmed. Please print your ticket and bring it to the main entrance gate of Pompey's Pillar for scanning to gain admission.
  9. 09Are there concession tickets available for children or students?
    Concession pricing for children, students, or seniors is often available directly at the ticket window with valid identification. Your included ticket is a standard adult entry; please inquire on site for specific concession rates if applicable.
  10. 10What is the historical significance of Pompey's Pillar?
    Pompey's Pillar is a Roman triumphal column erected in 297 AD, dedicated to Emperor Diocletian. It stands as the largest ancient monument in Alexandria and marks the site of the ancient Serapeum, a temple dedicated to the god Serapis.

Editorial review

Reviewed by Khaled Mansour

Product ID: TKT-ALX-523090

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