Roman Amphitheatre Tours

The centerpiece of the Kom al Dikka archaeological site, Alexandria’s Roman amphitheater extends in 13 tiers of white-marble seating. Built in the second century AD with space for 800 citizens, it’s the only known Roman theater in Egypt and housed political demonstrations and wrestling matches as well as drama.

The Basics
Gain admittance to the Kom al Dikka site for a moderate fee, with discounts for children and students. Besides the Roman amphitheater, the area includes the Villa of the Birds, known for its beautifully preserved mosaics; the remains of some classical baths; and what may be an ancient university. Visit the Roman amphitheater on an Alexandria history tour, alongside other classical attractions such as the Alexandria National Museum, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, and Pompey’s Pillar, or add it to your list of attractions when designing a custom tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Roman amphitheater—and the rest of the Kom al Dikka site—is a must for history buffs.
• Bring a hat, water, and sunscreen as there is neither shade nor a visitor center on the site.
• Kom al Dikka is not wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There
The Roman amphitheater is at the heart of the Kom al Dikka archaeological site, right in the center of Alexandria. It’s less than five minutes’ walk from the Alexandria train station; from elsewhere in the city, an organized tour is the easiest option, unless you speak Arabic.

When to Get There
The Kom al Dikka archaeological site is open from morning to afternoon seven days a week, and, while you’re unlikely to have the area to yourself, lines are rare. During summer, visit early in the day or shortly before closing to beat the worst of the heat on the unshaded site.

Roman Theater or Roman Amphitheater?
Although it’s most commonly known as the Roman amphitheater, Alexandria’s Roman amphitheater is technically a theater. The term “amphitheater” describes a theater in the round, where the audience encircles the stage. At a theater, the audience forms a semicircle. The theater is also occasionally known as an odeon, because musical performances may have been held there.