The governorate of Al Iskandriyah, situated on the north of the country, partly on the coast of Mediterranean is worth a visit as the second largest city in Egypt, Alexandria, known as "The Pearl of the Mediterranean” is situated here. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria became the capital of Graeco-Roman Egypt, its status as a beacon of culture symbolized by Pharos, the legendary lighthouse that was one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The city has an atmosphere that is more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern and even its ambience and cultural heritage distance it from the rest of the country. Explore Corniche avenue doted with casinos, walk along the Mahmudiya Canal coming face to face with the working class and industrial districts of Alexandria, visit the Zoological Gardens, the small Museum of Natural History, the Fine Arts Museum in the Moharrem Bey area, and a Rose Garden. Look into as many corners of the big city as the time allows enjoying its beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Agami, traditional exclusive resort where Cairo and Alexandria elite vacations, deserves some attention as well. While most of the housing in the area is simple, there are exceptions, including the Villa Lashin, built in 1962 by architect Ali Azzam and the Beit el-Halawa built by Abd el-Wahid el-Wakil. Near here, you will also find the resort villages of Hannoville and Sidi Kheir, which are also popular summer retreats. Historically, there is a small French fort built during French occupation of Egypt.