Two great centres of learning
Across the ancient world, trading cities and monastic establishments were often centres for learning and the exchange of knowledge. The most famous were Alexandria in Egypt, and Nalanda in India.
The modern revival of Alexandria and Nalanda stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving, nurturing, and sharing knowledge across generations. In honouring these historic centres, we reaffirm our collective commitment to the pursuit of wisdom and the continuity of human understanding.
Great Library of Alexandria in Roman Egypt
Founded by Alexander around 330 BCE, Alexandria became Egypt’s capital and a key East-West trade hub. Its Pharos lighthouse was an ancient wonder, and the Museion’s library aimed to gather all world knowledge, inspiring modern museums and universities. A center of Greek and Roman thought, it attracted scholars like Euclid and Archimedes. In 2002, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina was inaugurated, reviving Alexandria’s legacy as a beacon of learning and intellectual pursuit.
Nalanda Mahavihara – India’s Renowned Residential University
Nalanda, founded in 5th century CE Magadha (modern Patna), was a renowned Buddhist residential university offering diverse subjects like medicine, arts, sciences, law, and philosophy. Supported by the Gupta and Pala dynasties, it featured a vast library and drew scholars from across Asia, shaping intellectual life for centuries. True to its name—“The gift of knowledge that never ceases”—Nalanda symbolised enduring learning. Today, plans for a new library and resource centre aim to revive its legacy of global scholarship and dialogue.