Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a major library and cultural centre located on the waterfront in Alexandria. It was built between 1995 and 2002, based on a design of Snøhetta. It was inspired by the ancient Great Library of Alexandria, which existed between the 3rd and 1st centuries BC in Alexandria and contained half a million texts. The main reading hall is covered by a 32m high glass-panelled roof.