While Egypt's most famous history dates back to the time of the Pharaohs, Egypt's history didn't stop there. Egypt was part of the Greek and Roman empires for hundreds of years and they too have left their mark on the nation. In the north of Egypt in Alexandria are the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

It is one of the most stunning and unusual places to visit from Roman times. Adding to their mystery is that they were lost to history for many hundreds of years. Another must-see necropolis for anyone visiting Egypt is the famed Valley of the Kings.

Background of The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Today Archeologists believe that the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa was first built in the 2nd century AD. It was expanded and used for burying the dead over the next 200 years. During that time Alexandria was the scene of mixing of different cultures.

At that time Alexandria was the capital of Egypt and some have dubbed it the "Paris of antiquity."

  • Alexandria: Founded And Named After Alexander The Great In 332 BC

Archeologists also speculate that the catacombs were first built as a tomb for a single wealthy family. But over time it expanded for reasons that are still unknown. It may have ended up being run by a company that financed it with members paying regular dues.

  • Built: 2nd Century AD
  • Roman Rule: From 31 BC

The site is called Kom el Shoqafa (Mount of Shards) and was named for the heaps of broken pottery in the area. It is believed that these pottery shards were left by relatives who would visit the tomb bringing food and drink with them. Once the vessels had been used at the gravesite, the visitors would then shatter them creating piles of pottery shards.

Related: The Paris Catacombs Are The Final Resting Places Of Six Million People, And You Can Visit Them

Influences and Design of The Catacombs

The necropolis is made up of Alexandrian tombs, statues, and archaeological objects. One aspect that makes these catacombs so special is the fusion of Egyptian, Hellenistic, and early Imperial Roman influences.

  • Fusion: Fusion of Egyptian, Greek, And Roman Influences

In the catacombs, one can find statues that are in Egyptian style and yet have Roman clothes and a Roman hairstyle.

  • Discovered: Supposedly Discovered by A Donkey Falling Through Into the Catacombs

The story goes that the catacombs were rediscovered on September 28th, 1900. They were discovered of all things by a donkey with a full cart of stone that fell into a hole in the ground.

  • Max Depth: 100 Feet or 30 Meters
  • Meaning: Kom el Shoqafa Means "Mound of Shards" In Arabic

Catacombs in Alexandria were also likely to have been larger in the past but much was likely destroyed by earthquakes or new construction over the centuries.

On the surface, there was likely once a large funerary chapel and from its remains, it seems its edifice was 18 feet or 6 meters wide. Bodies were likely lowered into the catacombs by a rope and pulley system instead of using the steps.

The main tomb is covered with unique sculptures and art. One can find statues of a man and a woman (who could perhaps represent the original occupants of the catacombs). The Museum of Unnatural Mystery states of them:

"Both of the statues' bodies have been carved into the stiff hieratic poses found in ancient Egyptian art. The man's head, however, has been chiseled into the lifelike style favored by the Greeks. In the same way, the woman's head has been carved with a Roman hairstyle."

The doorway of the temple in the catacombs is guarded by two carved serpents. They represent a Greek Agathodaimon (a good spirit) and they also have Greek, Roman, and Egyptian elements.

  • Guarded: Guarded By Greek Agathodaimon Spirits

Another odd feature is the Hall of Caracalla. This contains the bones of horses in tombs created for the horses of the emperor Caracalla in 215 AD.

Related: Luxor Temple: How To Visit This Ancient Site On The Nile

Visiting The Catacombs

Most people coming to visit Egypt are just seeking to visit the most famous of places and so interesting smaller attractions like these are often overlooked. One can enjoy visiting unique Egyptian attractions without all the crowds.

The catacombs are open to the public and have a four-star rating on Tripadvisor. Most visitors loved their visit there and some recommend going with a tour guide.

  • Admission Fee: 80 Egyptian Pounds ($5.00)
  • Time: Plan To Spend An Hour Here
  • Tip: Don't Visit If One is Claustrophobic

For those seeking a guided tour, consider booking a customizable tour of Alexandria.

Alternatively, it is also possible to have a virtual tour of the catacombs on the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website.

Next: What You Need To Know About Visiting The Pyramids Of Egypt