The Building in its Physical Setting

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is clearly a landmark building. It provides an anchor for an area that could be one of the most beautiful areas in the world, the old historic harbor of Alexandria. Regretfully, the rest of the area is not yet developed with sufficient attention to an overall effect that links buildings to their surroundings, both natural and man-made. Plans are underway to try to do this in the next few years. A five-star hotel facility is currently under development to serve the Library visitors and its conference participants.

The panorama of the old harbor is truly exceptional. The gentle sweep of the bay is restful to the eye, and the scale of the bay is suited to the human psyche. It is neither overwhelming nor too small for the visitor to be impressed and yet feel welcomed and “at home”. The old eastern harbor should be the focal point of Alexandria for tourism.

For that purpose, the Library complex will be an important magnet, and an “anchor” for the visitors. It makes sense that it should be physically linked to the Silsilah and to the touristic developments and service facilities that should surround it. The urban design must include proper attention to the traffic and access aspects, including parking needs for cars and buses, and the possibilities of reviving the horse-drawn carriages for visitors who want a more leisurely promenade. The need for comprehensive services should not be at the expense of quality. Local character and international standards would have to be maintained throughout.

Here the new building of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina sets a standard, in concept and execution, in design and detailing.