Where to Go in the World to Discover the Fascinating Legacy of Cleopatra

Perhaps one of the most iconic women in history, the story of Cleopatra VII’s rise and fall as the last pharaoh of Egypt has a bit of everything. There’s civil war with her sibling, a secret affair with a major foreign power, an attempt to seat her son atop the Roman world, and the eventual demise of her and her state.

So, it’s not a surprise that when people want to explore the ancient world in real life or through media, they want to find out more about Cleopatra. Uniquely, you can’t go to Cairo or Luxor to find her great temple, tomb, statue, or pyramid, but there’s still plenty to explore in Egypt and beyond.

Famous and Powerful Throughout History

Cleopatra was famous at the time for both being the ruler of Egypt and for actively being able to influence Roman politics. Her relationship with Julius Caesar was followed by one with Mark Antony, the latter of which saw both parties regularly exchanging riches and gifts. Her place in history has inspired many works of art since.

In modern times, she’s featured in major productions of film and television at least six times. The most notable of these were in the hit HBO show Rome and in 1963, with Elizabeth Taylor taking on the part. She’s so iconic, in fact, that the entertainment media depicting the last pharaoh doesn’t even need to retell her story.

Just looking at the collection of games at the casino online, you can see 15 games dedicated to the icon. It all began with IGT’s Cleopatra, which remains popular to this day. From there, players have spun the reels of Cleopatra Gold, Cleopatra Wilds Hold and Win, and MegaJackpots Cleopatra because her name still carries weight.

Finding Cleopatra in Egypt

As was the case with many rulers of Ancient Egypt, Cleopatra had grandiose ideas for construction projects across her land. Alexandria is central to those interested in Cleopatra finding her. She commissioned the building of a synagogue in Alexandria, and she likely brought about the significant repairs required at the Library of Alexandria.

She also oversaw work begun on her tomb near the Tomb of Alexander the Great, which was said to be completed by Augustus, but neither resting place has been relocated in the centuries since. The Caesareum of Alexandria is likely her most famous work, which was built to honour her lover, Julius Caesar, and completed after her death.

You can also find examples of her work and devotion to the pharaoh at the Dendera temple complex. Here, you’ll find many depictions of Cleopatra on the temple walls of the goddess Hathor. The most famous of these is found on the rear of the temple’s exterior, which shows her and the son she had with Julius Caesar, Caesarion.

More to Discover for Cleopatra

If you live in London or New York City, you may have encountered a couple of obelisks that have been named to Cleopatra and were built in the days of Egypt’s New Kingdom. These are Cleopatra’s Needles, which were in Alexandria for close to two millennia before being relocated to London and New York City in the 19th Century.

Even with all of this to explore, people are still on the hunt for her famed tomb. An expedition to try to find it in 2025 actually ended up revealing a sunken port in the Mediterranean Sea. It may be a hint as to where to find Cleopatra’s final resting place.

Given her fame and role in such a well-documented part of history, it’s not surprising that people from around the world want to visit the sites of Cleopatra VII.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.