Lighthouse of Alexandria
The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Lighthouse of Alexandria, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Located in Alexandria, Egypt, it was built in the 3rd century BC. Built during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphialphus. A technological marvel of its time, the lighthouse was an impressive feat of engineering and architecture.
The architect responsible for the design of the lighthouse is believed to be Sostratus of Cnidus. The building was built on the island of Pharos, connected to the mainland by a causeway. At some 130 meters (430 ft), the lighthouse was one of the tallest man-made structures at the time.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria was built primarily to guide ships safely into Alexandria. Its top floor has a massive fire that can be seen from afar. The smoke from the fire, fueled by wood and other combustible materials, helps ships find the lighthouse even in bad weather.
The lighthouse was built from large blocks of limestone and decorated with marble columns and statues. The structure has three main parts: a rectangular base, a cylindrical central part and a tapered top. The base is about 60 meters (200 feet) square and 8 meters (26 feet) high. The middle section is about 30 meters (100 ft) in diameter and 20 meters (66 ft) high, and the upper section is about 7 meters (23 ft) in diameter and 8 meters (26 ft) high.
The interior of the lighthouse features a spiral staircase leading to the top and a system of ramps and pulleys used to transport fuel to the upper levels. The lighthouse is also equipped with a series of mirrors that reflect the fire, making it visible as far as 50 kilometers (30 miles) out to sea.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria stood for over a thousand years, but was eventually destroyed in a series of earthquakes in the 14th century. Today, only ruins remain of this once great architectural marvel. However, his influence can still be seen in lighthouses and other nautical installations around the world, as well as in the famous lighthouse sign of the Électricité de France company. The Lighthouse of Alexandria is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient architects and engineers and still inspires awe and wonder today.
