Quick Scoop

The Lighthouse of Alexandria did not vanish all at once; it was gradually damaged by earthquakes over centuries and eventually collapsed, with its stones later reused for other buildings in Alexandria.

What happened

It stood for more than 1,000 years after being built in the 3rd century BCE, but repeated earthquakes weakened it, especially major ones in the late 10th and 14th centuries. By the 15th century, the remaining material was largely dismantled and reused in the Citadel of Qaitbay, built on or near the old site.

Why it matters

The lighthouse was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a famous symbol of Alexandria’s maritime power. Today, archaeologists have found underwater remains and blocks from the structure, helping piece together how it looked and how it fell.

In short

  • Cause: Earthquakes and long-term structural damage.
  • End state: Collapsed ruin, then stone reuse for later construction.
  • Today: Submerged remains still exist near Alexandria’s harbor.