AntiquitiesThe Islamic centuries

Nelson’s Island

A small sandy island off Abu Qir gathering three eras in one spot: ancient Greek burial ground, the graves and camps of the 1798 battle, and a modern excavation site.

The Islamic centuries: Camp of the 1798 battle
Opening hours: No regular visits at present; visible from shore by day
Tickets: —
Administrative section: Abu Qir — offshore

Open in maps Its place in time

Its place in time

The Islamic centuries · 7th century – 1805

Alexandria remained Egypt’s gateway on the sea, guarded by walls, forts and towers, and a destination for scholars and Sufis.

Ancient Alexandria331 BC – 7th century AD
The Islamic centuries7th century – 1805
The Mohamed Ali revival1805 – 1860
The cosmopolitan city1860 – 1950
Contemporary Alexandria1950 – today

Before it in timeAbu Qir Bay & HarbourThe battle of 1798

The Montazah Gardens: lawns and palms ringing the ornamental lake under a clear sky

After it in timeThe Montazah GardensAbbas Helmi II’s summer retreat from 1892

Highlights

1Ancient Greek burials
2Remains of the 1798 camps and graves
3Antiquities council excavations
4Best seen from Abu Qir beach

The story

Nelson’s Island rises from the bay a couple of kilometres offshore; in antiquity it was a landmark for the sailors of Canopus before shifting sands buried it and the sea uncovered it again.
Excavations have found Greek burials centuries before our era alongside the remains of the camp and graves of soldiers from the great 1798 naval battle — hence the island’s naming after Admiral Nelson, victor of that day.
The island is a protected archaeological site with no regular visiting arrangement at present, though it is clearly visible from Abu Qir beach on clear days and occasionally included in licensed sea trips.

Around it

Nearby landmarks

Distances are as the crow flies. Choose any pin to open that place.