Bernice Maps and Destination Data and Information:

Location: A small town, about 12 Km south of Marsa Alam,

City Economic Importance:

It is very rich in fish. The site is an excellent therapeutic centre and today is a geological phenomenon as well. It is full of semi-precious gems, and was used from around 1500 BC until the mid-20th century. 

City History:

The city was an important port in Ptolemy’s times; it was built during the time of Ptolemy II who named it to commemorate her name: Bernice, The ancient city of Berenice, named by Ptolemy II Philadelphos after his mother, became a trading port in 275 BC. A ruined Temple of Semiramis built by Trajan and Tiberius is near the modern town and, inland, there are the remains of the emerald mines of Wadi Sakait, which were worked from Pharaonic to Roman times. On the outer walls of the temple are representations of Emperor Tiberius before the god Min, and another depicts offerings to the deity of the Green Mines. The coast is lined with mangrove swamps and unspoiled bays and coves. Offshore, visit the tectonic island of Zabargad, a geological phenomenon which is also famous as the source of the semi-precious gem olivine, mined here from 1500 BC until the mid-20th century. From Peridot hill there are breathtaking views of the surrounding blue lagoons, rich in marine life and home to many dolphins. While Berenice is famous for it's fishing, it also has some of Egypt's best health spas.