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Catacombs of Kom el- Shukafa, Alexandria are one of Alexandria’s most memorable monuments. Identified as magnificent work of rock-cut architecture, the Great Catacomb defies the convoluted theory of art and architecture. The construction of the structure equals enterprises of modern subways and tunnels. But when it comes to aesthetics it leaves modern day architecture way behind. Catacombs of Kom el- Shukafa, Alexandria is a vast structure with intricately decorated interior spaces cut to depth into the rock.

The catacombs date back to the late 1st Century AD. They are situated in the Karmouz district of western Alexandria. Today it is one of the most densely populated districts of Alexandria. This district was used by Mohammad Ali Pasha to defend the city. Then the area was destroyed in about 1850.

On its western side lies its City of the Dead. However, while the ancient Egyptians mummified their dead, the Hellenistic custom was for cremation. This area contained a mound of shards of terra cotta which consisted of jars and objects made of clay. These objects were mostly left by those visiting the tombs. They usually brought food and wine for their consumption during the visit. However, they did not carry them back.

The common belief was that the catacombs served only one wealthy family that practiced the ancient Egyptian pagan religion. However it was transformed into a mass burial site, probably administered by a corporation. This theory carries weight as many chambers were hewn from the rock. In its final stage, the complex contained over one hundred loculi and numerous rock-cut sarcophagus tombs.

The catacomb consists of a ground level construction. It served as a funerary chapel. It has a deep spiral stairway and three underground levels for the funerary ritual and entombment. The first level consists of a vestibule with a double exedra, a rotunda and a triclinium. The second level, in its original state, was the main tomb, with various surrounding corridors. It was reached by a monumental staircase from the rotunda. The third level is under ground water, which has also caused it to be saturated with sand.

The Catacomb is one of the most inspired monuments of Alexandrian funerary architecture.

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