Ras El Tin Palace

Sumptuous Ras el-Tin Palace was once a summer escape for Egypt's sultans when the desert heat of Cairo got too much to bear. It's also the famed location where King Farouk — Egypt's last king — officially abdicated in 1952 before sailing out of Alexandria's harbor and into exile in Italy. Today, the palace is used by the Egyptian navy, which means its glorious interiors are out of bounds to casual visitors, but the monumental white facade, best viewed from the harbor waters, is a must-see.

Along Alexandria's western shore, past the shipyards, you’ll spot Ras El Tin Palace. It is most spectacular seen from the Mediterranean Sea. Originally built in the 1830s for Egyptian ruler Mohammed Ali, it’s now part of a naval base and was an official presidential residence. It was here that King Farouk signed his abdication papers in 1952. Unfortunately it’s not open to visitors.

Resembling a large Italian Renaissance Palace, Ras El-Tin is also surrounded by magnificent gardens of fig trees, giving it its name “Cape Fig Palace”. Although currently not open to visitors, the palace is still a sight to view from the outside. Snap some pictures of the amazing architecture and revel in the rich history of the place.