90 likes | 1.67k Views
Lighthouse of Alexandria ( Pharos Lighthouse). By Josh Mehling. Location. Eastern point of Pharos island Built around 290 – 270 BC Nothing is left today because it toppled in 1303 AD by an earthquake. Purpose. Alexander the Great chose the location, and Ptolemy authorized the building
E N D
Lighthouse of Alexandria(Pharos Lighthouse) By Josh Mehling
Location • Eastern point of Pharos island • Built around 290 – 270 BC • Nothing is left today because it toppled in 1303 AD by an earthquake
Purpose • Alexander the Great chose the location, and Ptolemy authorized the building • Built to guide ships to Alexandria’s harbor • Mirrors reflected light from fire out to the water
Uniqueness • It WAS the first lighthouse in the world and the tallest building in existence • It took 20 years to build • It was stone faced with white marble blocks with lead mortar
Ancient Foresight • Lighthouses began to be built in more areas because of the success of the Pharos Lighthouse (e.g.: Boston Light) • The Lighthouse of Alexandria is one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World
Sources • www.unmuseum.mus.pa.us/pharos.htm