Shallalat gardens to be upgraded before opening of Alex's library

The archaeological Shallalat (waterfalls) gardens in Alexandria is a national wealth, which will be finally upgraded.

The development idea is based on raising the efficiency of the garden and realizing integration between the open green areas and services rendered to the visitors.

The garden, said Secretary of Alexandria Governorate Ezzat Shaaban was distinguished by having archaeological monuments such as the Jews Fortress which was so called because it lies in the vicinity of the Jews tombs.

The fortress is one of the important castles built by Mohamed Ali Pasha near the coast and was used as quarters for soldiers.

In a later stage, according to Shaaban, it was used for making copper utensils, the reason why it is sometimes referred to as the fortress of copper makers.

The fortress comprises five rectangular and two square storehouses.

Among the archaeological features of the garden is the western tower of old Alexandria wall and is considered part of the remains of the eastern gate known as Rashid gate in the Roman and Islamic ages.

Under the intended project the two monuments are to be restored and opened for visitors. They are expected to promote domestic tourism especially that they will be provided with sound and light show.

The renovations to be introduced to the garden including attractions for the young and the old are to be ready within a few months, said Mr. Shaaban revealing that the gardens will be officially opened on April 23 coinciding with the official inauguration of Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

The gardens will thus be included on the tourist tour of foreign guests attending the opening of the library.