New Bibliotheca Alexandrina Opens in Egypt
October 16th, 2002
October 16th, 2002
How Long Ago?
22 years, 4 months, 26 days ago
Location
Alexandria, Egypt
Category
Arts & Culture
People
- Mohamed ElBaradei
- Ahmed Zewail
- Ismail Serageldin
- Margaret D. Leila
Links & References
Tags
New Bibliotheca Alexandrina Opens in Egypt
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina opened its doors in Egypt, reviving the legacy of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Nestled along the Mediterranean coast in Alexandria, this modern library represents a significant cultural project aimed at promoting knowledge and learning. The grand inauguration featured dignitaries and cultural figures, bringing attention to Egypt's rich intellectual heritage. Aimed at fostering partnerships between different cultures, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina serves as a symbol of dialogue, learning, and enlightenment.
Revival of the ancient Library of Alexandria
Architectural design by firm Snohetta
Hosts millions of books and educational events
Promotes international cultural dialogue
What Happened?
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, officially opened in Alexandria, Egypt, marking a significant milestone in cultural preservation and education. The ancient library, established in the 3rd century BCE, was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world, seeking to gather all human knowledge. Its tragic destruction through various historical events left a profound void in the world of scholarship. The new Bibliotheca Alexandrina, designed by the Norwegian firm Snohetta and completed in the early 21st century, aims to rekindle this lost legacy of learning and intellectual pursuit.
The building itself is an architectural marvel, featuring a distinct sloping roof that resembles the sun rising above the Mediterranean. It houses millions of books, multiple museums, research centers, and an auditorium, functioning as a hub for cultural exchange and educational activities. The opening ceremony was a grand event, attended by international dignitaries, scholars, and cultural figures who acknowledged the library's role in promoting knowledge and cultural understanding among nations.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is not merely a repository of books; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and interdisciplinary cooperation. By hosting a variety of cultural events, educational programs, and exhibitions, it endeavors to revive the spirit of inquiry and dialogue that characterized the original library. This modern institution aspires to fulfill its mission of being a center for scholarship, research, and cultural engagement for people around the world, bridging the ancient and the contemporary.
Why Does it Matter?
The opening of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is interesting as it represents a revival of a historical idea—that of a universal library serving as a beacon of knowledge and culture. This modern version seeks to continue the legacy of the ancient library while adapting to contemporary needs. It serves not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a locus for cultural dialogue, learning, and international collaboration, potentially influencing many generations of scholars and thinkers.
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