Pompey’s Pillar: Alexandria’s Monumental Roman Column
Pompey’s Pillar is the popular name for the massive monolithic column of Diocletian in Alexandria. The monument stands beside the remains of the Serapeum, the great temple complex dedicated to the god Serapis, and is one of the clearest surviving landmarks of Roman Alexandria.
Erected in the late 3rd century AD, the column was carved from red Aswan granite and raised as a monument associated with the Roman emperor Diocletian. Despite its traditional name, it was not built for the Roman general Pompey.
The surviving column shaft rises dramatically above the archaeological site, surrounded by traces of the Serapeum and ancient architectural fragments. Visiting the site gives travellers a compact but powerful view of Alexandria’s Greek, Egyptian and Roman layers.
Discover Ten Highlights of Pompey’s Pillar
Explore the column, Serapeum setting, granite shaft, ancient fragments and the archaeological clues that reveal Roman Alexandria.
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Pompey’s Pillar
Plan a smooth visit with practical advice about the archaeological setting, walking conditions, photography, timing and combining the pillar with Alexandria’s other historic sites.
Confirm Current Site Access
Opening arrangements and archaeological-site access can change. Check current visitor information before travelling.
Go in the Morning
Morning visits are usually more comfortable for walking around the open archaeological site, especially during warmer months.
Allow 45–75 Minutes
The pillar can be seen relatively quickly, but allow extra time to understand the Serapeum remains and surrounding monuments.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The site is archaeological and involves outdoor walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring Your Camera
The column is one of Alexandria’s most photogenic Roman landmarks. Follow current photography rules and staff instructions.
Do Not Expect Pompey’s Tomb
The popular name is misleading: the column is associated with Emperor Diocletian, not a surviving tomb or monument built for Pompey.
Use a Knowledgeable Guide
A guide can explain the Serapeum, Diocletian’s reign and how Egyptian, Greek and Roman traditions overlap at the site.
Combine Nearby Landmarks
Pair Pompey’s Pillar with the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Kom El Dikka or other Alexandria highlights for a richer historical day.
Travel note: Opening arrangements, ticket categories and photography rules can change. Confirm current details before visiting.
Explore Pompey’s Pillar with a Private Guide
Add Pompey’s Pillar to a private Alexandria day with comfortable transport and an Egyptologist who can connect the column with the Serapeum and the city’s Greco-Roman history.
Remarkable Facts About Pompey’s Pillar
Discover the Roman history, granite engineering and archaeological setting behind Alexandria’s famous column.
Diocletian Era
The column dates to the late 3rd century AD and is associated with the reign of Roman Emperor Diocletian.
Column Shaft
The monolithic shaft is about 20.46 metres high, making it one of the most impressive surviving Roman columns of its type.
Single Stone
The shaft was carved from red Aswan granite, linking the monument to one of Egypt’s most famous ancient stone-producing regions.
Sacred Complex
The column stands beside the remains of the Serapeum, the principal sanctuary of Serapis in Roman Alexandria.
Experience Your Way
Choose a verified Alexandria day tour that visits Pompey’s Pillar, request a private itinerary built around the monument, or continue exploring Alexandria’s archaeological landmarks.
Nearby Attractions in Alexandria
Continue exploring Alexandria with four major landmarks that pair naturally with Pompey’s Pillar in a private historical itinerary.
Qaitbay Citadel
Explore the 15th-century Mediterranean fortress built near the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse.
Explore Site
Alexandria National Museum
Trace Alexandria’s history from the Pharaonic and Greco-Roman periods to the modern city inside an elegant former palace.
Explore Site
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
Descend into a remarkable Roman-period necropolis where Egyptian, Greek and Roman traditions meet underground.
Explore Site
Kom El Dikka
Walk through the remains of ancient Alexandria, including the Roman theatre, baths, streets and residential buildings.
Explore SitePompey’s Pillar Visitor Questions
Essential answers for planning a visit to Pompey’s Pillar, the Serapeum and Alexandria’s Roman archaeological heritage.
What is Pompey’s Pillar?
Pompey’s Pillar is the popular name for Diocletian’s Column, a monumental Roman column standing beside the remains of the Serapeum in Alexandria.
Was Pompey’s Pillar built for Pompey?
No. The name is traditional and misleading. The surviving column is associated with the Roman emperor Diocletian and dates to the late 3rd century AD.
When was Pompey’s Pillar built?
The column dates to the late 3rd century AD, during the Roman period of Alexandria and the reign of Emperor Diocletian.
How tall is Pompey’s Pillar?
The monolithic shaft is about 20.46 metres high, making it one of the most impressive surviving Roman columns outside the imperial capitals.
What is the column made of?
The shaft was carved from red Aswan granite, a stone strongly associated with major monuments throughout ancient Egypt.
What is the Serapeum?
The Serapeum was the principal sanctuary of Serapis in Alexandria. Its remains surround the column and reveal the religious importance of the ancient site.
How long should I spend at Pompey’s Pillar?
Allow around 45–75 minutes for the column and archaeological setting, with extra time if you are visiting nearby sites as part of a wider itinerary.
Is Pompey’s Pillar good for photography?
Yes. The column rises dramatically above the site and offers strong views from several angles. Follow current site rules and staff instructions for photography.
What can I combine with Pompey’s Pillar?
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Kom El Dikka, Alexandria National Museum and Qaitbay Citadel can be combined into a fuller Alexandria day, depending on opening times.
Can I visit Pompey’s Pillar on a private Alexandria tour?
Yes. A private Alexandria itinerary can include Pompey’s Pillar with the Catacombs, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Qaitbay Citadel and other landmarks at a pace suited to you.