The map illustrate changes in both the physical size and the population of the Egyptian city of Alexandria between 1840 and 1980.
Overall, it is clear that Alexandria experienced substantial urban expansion throughout the periods, growing from a small coastal settlemented into a large metropolitan area. This physical growths closely paralleled a dramatic rise in populations, particularly after the mid-20th centutry.
In 1840, the city covered only 4 square kilometers, concentrated along a short section of the Mediterranean coast nearly Lake Mariout. By 1900, the built-up area had expended modestly in both coastal direction, though the city remained relatively compact. Much more significant growth occurres by 1960, when urban development spread further inland and along the coastline. By 1980, the city had expanded to approximately 100 square kilometers, representing a twenty-five-fold increase in land area since 1840.
Population figure followed a similar upward trend but rose much more sharply after 1940. Between 1840 and 1900, the number of inhabitants increased only gradually, remaining below 100,000. Growth became more noticeable in the early 20th century, with the population reaching around half a million by 1940. The most rapidly rise occurred between 1940 and 1980, during which the population climbed steeply to exceed 2 million.In summary, Alexandria’s physical and demographic growth accelerated significantly over the 140-year period, with the most dramatic changes occurring after 1940.