Archaeological site · Alexandria
Ancient Roman Theatre
Marble tiers rising from Alexandria's buried Roman heart
- City
- Alexandria
- Era
- Late Roman period, c. 4th century AD onward
Overview
The Ancient Roman Theatre, known in Arabic as al-Masrah al-Romani al-Qadim, lies in the Kom el-Dikka district of central Alexandria, a short distance from Misr railway station. Its semicircular rows of white and grey marble make it one of the most recognisable classical monuments in the city, and a rare example of this type of building in Egypt. The site lies below street level, an open archaeological park surrounded by the modern city.
The monument was uncovered by chance in 1960, when workers clearing a mound for new construction came across ancient remains. Excavation was then taken up by a Polish–Egyptian team, led by the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology of the University of Warsaw, and continued for decades. The work showed that the theatre was part of a larger late Roman urban complex rather than a single isolated building. The mound that gives Kom el-Dikka its name had long hidden this part of the ancient city.
Scholars generally date the main phase of the building to the late Roman period, around the fourth century AD, and many describe it as an odeon, a small-scale auditorium for music, recitations and public gatherings, rather than a large open-air theatre. Around it lie the remains of public baths, a series of lecture halls and residential quarters. Together they show that Alexandria remained a lively centre of learning and civic life long after the age of the Ptolemies.
What to see
- 01The semicircular tiers of white and grey marble seating, the centrepiece of the site
- 02The row of lecture halls (auditoria) that point to Alexandria's late antique tradition of learning
- 03The remains of Roman public baths and their water-supply features
- 04Mosaic floors, including the bird-themed mosaics of the nearby Villa of the Birds
Visitor tips
- Check current opening hours and ticket prices with official sources or locally before you go, as they can change.
- The site has limited shade and uneven stone surfaces, so wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection, especially in summer.
- Allow about an hour for the theatre and surrounding ruins, then pair the visit with other sights in central Alexandria.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Ancient Roman Theatre in Alexandria?
It is in the Kom el-Dikka area of central Alexandria, a short distance from Misr railway station, and is set below street level within an archaeological park.
How old is the Roman Theatre of Alexandria?
Its main phase is generally dated to the late Roman period, around the fourth century AD, and the surrounding complex remained in use for some time afterwards.
Who discovered the Roman Theatre at Kom el-Dikka?
It was found by chance in 1960 during ground clearance for construction. A Polish–Egyptian mission, associated with the University of Warsaw, then excavated and studied the site for many years.
