Alexandria Flashcards
Why did Alexander the Great chose the site of Alexandria?
Because he noted the excellent agricultural land and the fine harbour of a small fishing village west of the mouth of the River Nile.
What happened during the development of Alexandria?
Alexander the Great died, however the city was built and named after him. He was also buried in a magnificent tomb.
Why was Alexandria a wealthy place?
Due to its position. It was situated at the meeting place for trading on a large scale. Into Alexandria came luxury goods such as Bronze statues from Greece or fine Italian wines.
Why were merchants ands businessmen attracted to Alexandria?
Because it offered them safe harbours for their ships and was also the centre of education and study.
How many harbours did Alexandria have?
Alexandria had three harbours.
Why was the Pharos lighthouse significant?
Because it acted as a marker for day and night, for thousands of ships that used the port each year. The Pharos was also 135 metres high and had a fire lit constantly at the top.
Why is the Pharos one of the seven wonders of the Ancient world?
Because it was built over 2000 years ago with no advanced technology or machines so slaves had to build them brick by brick.
What was Alexandria’s most successful industry?
Glass making.
When were Egyptian glass vessels first founded?
In 1500 BC.
What happened when Alexandria was first founded?
Craftsmen quickly came to develop their glass making skills. In Rome, there was a sudden demand for Alexandrian glasses, which made the craftsmen gradually learn how to make glass in various colours such as blue, brown, white and green.
What discovery lead to being able to produce mandible rent shapes and sizes quickly and efficiently?
The glass-blowing system, where all you had to do was blow down from one end of the pipe.
