The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the New Library of Alexandria, aspires to implement a landmark honouring the enterprise of science. In light of its mission, the Library of Alexandria has endorsed a science city project by organizing an open, one stage international architectural competition for the comprehensive master plan and conceptual design. The new “Science City” complex will be built on the western edge of Cairo, in the heart of the 6th of October City. This new complex, to be constructed on prime land, calls for inspiring new comprehensive master plan and conceptual design; that will ultimately create the first 21st century science museum, learning and research facility in Egypt.
The competition was launched under the auspices of the International Union of Architects (UIA). The BA received submissions from 446 contestants in the international competition for architects and planners to design the “Science City” in the 6th of October City. The first prize winner, whose project will be executed, is Weston Williamson+Partners of the UK. The winning design is characterized by a sense of universality, and it can be executed in different constructional phases.
Science City aims to establish a scientific center that consists of interactive scientific exhibitions, a museum for collections, research facilities, workshops, and a conference center. It aspires to stimulate people’s curiosity and sense of exploration and promote scientific and technological education through unconventional exhibitions and educational activities.