The Library of Alexandria was legendary in ancient times, founded in the 3rd Century BC and being the first library in the world to include a major collection of books sourced from outside the area. It became a symbol of knowledge and learning throughout the Greco-Roman Period, when Alexandria was one of the most famous cities of the world. There are many legends and theories as to its absolute destruction by the late 4th Century AD, including accidental burning by Julius Caesar, and destruction by thuggish early Christian mobs at the decree of the Bishop Theophilus in 391 AD.

However it came to be lost to history, its legend lived on to the point that the dream of its revival remained a potent concept. Undertaken by the Arab Republic of Egypt in conjunction with UNESCO, a Norwegian architect firm was contracted and the initial designs completed in 1989. The structure itself was completed in 2001 and officially opened to great fanfare in 2002. More than just a structure, the Biblioteca was designed to recreate the ancient Library's reputation as a beacon of learning and dialogue in the modern digital era. Its location is thought to be near that of the ancient Library.

The new Biblioteca Alexandrina is a sparkling modern structure, designed in the form of a disc to represent the Egyptian sun. It features a glass paneled roof that slopes towards the sea, allowing in natural light along with a view of the Mediterranean. Comprising about 70,000 square meters (750,000 square feet), the library includes a reading room that seats 2,000 on 11 levels, an exhibition of manuscripts and rare books, and an antiquities museum displaying 1,100 artifacts discovered during construction of the modern structure.

In addition to the traditional features you'll find in libraries worldwide, the Biblioteca includes an Arts Center that regularly features music and other performances, and a Planetarium & Science Center with educational shows that are also open to the public. http://www.bibalex.org/Home/Default_EN.aspx http://www.architectureweek.com/2001/0919/design_1-1.html http://www.straightdope.com/columns/read/2233/what-happened-to-the-great-library-of-alexandria

Located near the Corniche at the city's north end, the Biblioteca is open 11:00am to 7:00pm from Saturday to Thursday, and from 3:00pm to 7:00pm on Fridays.

Admission to the library is E£10, which includes the library resources, guided tours, and access to both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Additional admission fees:

• Antiquities collection - E£20
• Manuscripts collection - E£20
• Collective ticket (includes library resources, guided tours, access to both permanent and temporary exhibitions, Antiquities Collection & Manuscripts Collection) - E£45
• Planetarium - E£25

Photography is allowed in the Library Reading Area, but not in the Exhibitions. You'll have to leave your personal belongings, including purses and backpacks, in a deposit box near the ticket office.

You may not eat, sleep or smoke in the Biblioteca.

All public areas are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for use at the Reception Desk.

Daycare is available from 11:00am to 4:00pm daily except on Fridays and Saturdays.

Use of a mobile phone is prohibited while you're at the Biblioteca and will result in a fine of E£10.

You'll want to check their calendar online before you visit for special events and festivals, particularly during the summer months.http://www.bibalex.org/visitors/BA_Visiting_en.aspx