gems, ancient Egypt, ancient trade, commerce, archaeology, Black Sea, archaeology, Hellenistic, Alexander the Great, Egypt

Grimm presents an illustrated account of Alexandria from its foundation by Alexander the Great to the death of Cleopatra VII and the establishment of Roman rule in Egypt. Combining ancient literary testimony with archaeological evidence, he reconstructs the development of the Ptolemaic capital and its principal monuments. Particular attention is given to the royal quarter, palaces, harbours, Mouseion, Great Library, and the presumed location of the royal mausoleum containing Alexander’s tomb. The Pharos lighthouse, sanctuaries, including the Serapeum, and surviving Hellenistic cemeteries receive substantial treatment. The architectural and archaeological survey is accompanied by a narrative of Ptolemaic dynastic history, court politics, and Cleopatra’s relations with Caesar, Antony, and Octavian. Photographs, maps, plans, and reconstruction drawings bring together the material remains of a city whose ancient appearance must largely be recovered from fragmentary evidence. The volume emphasizes Alexandria’s royal monuments, artistic production, and dynastic setting.