Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa is a small historical site located in Alexandria, Egypt consisting of a series of Alexandrian tombs, mostly for soldiers and their horses. Don't let the initial impression of sparseness fool you - most of this site is underground.

At the bottom of the catacomb stairs there is a small shrine which is colourfully decorated. The site as a whole is interesting in that is a mixture of both Egyptian and Roman art styles and sensibilities.

From Alexandria a short tuktuk or taxi ride will take you to the site.

The site is in the middle of an older section of Alexandria with a car park. The site is accessed through standard ticketing and security facilities. Toilets are located near the entrance.

The catacombs themselves are accessed at the far end of the site where you descend along a spiral staircase into some cramped spaces which can be particularly awkward with large numbers of people. The catacombs are well lit but not at all signposted so a guide is essential.

Outside of the catacombs there is a small Tigran temple that is worth a visit.

For further information, please see:

• Wikipedia - Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa