
El Alamein Commonwealth War Cemetery
A solemn and meticulously maintained memorial honoring Commonwealth soldiers who fell in WWII's pivotal North African campaign.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Open daily, no entrance fee

El Alamein Commonwealth War Cemetery
Best Time
Open daily, no entrance fee

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn and meticulously maintained memorial honoring Commonwealth soldiers who fell in WWII's pivotal North African campaign.
"A solemn reminder of sacrifices made, this cemetery is a powerful testament to courage and loss."

Free Admission
:ticket: Entry is free. No tickets are needed to visit this solemn memorial site.
Dress Respectfully
:clothing: As a war cemetery, modest dress is appreciated. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rows of White Headstones
Main Cemetery Grounds
Thousands of meticulously aligned white headstones create a powerful, moving landscape of remembrance.

The Alamein Memorial
Central Memorial
This central monument commemorates over 11,866 Commonwealth forces members who died in WWII.

Graves of Unknown Soldiers
Throughout the Cemetery
Poignant reminders of the immense human cost of war, these graves honor those whose identities were lost.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit Essentials
Navigating to the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission
:ticket: Entry is free. No tickets are needed to visit this solemn memorial site.
Dress Respectfully
:clothing: As a war cemetery, modest dress is appreciated. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Guided Tour Option
:bus: Consider a guided tour from Alexandria for historical context and easy transport.
Allow Time for Reflection
:stopwatch: Take your time to read inscriptions and reflect on the sacrifices made here.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission
:ticket: Entry is free. No tickets are needed to visit this solemn memorial site.
Dress Respectfully
:clothing: As a war cemetery, modest dress is appreciated. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Guided Tour Option
:bus: Consider a guided tour from Alexandria for historical context and easy transport.
Allow Time for Reflection
:stopwatch: Take your time to read inscriptions and reflect on the sacrifices made here.
Well-Maintained Site
:sparkles: Visitors consistently praise the meticulous upkeep and peaceful atmosphere of the cemetery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the El Alamein Commonwealth War Cemetery for its meticulous maintenance and deeply moving atmosphere. It's a solemn and peaceful site that powerfully commemorates the sacrifices of Commonwealth soldiers during WWII. While the entrance can be understated, the expansive rows of headstones leave a lasting impression of respect and remembrance.
"El Alamein War Cemetery is a meticulously maintained memorial to the Commonwealth soldiers who fought and died in the Second Battle of El Alamein. Despite its understated entrance, the cemetery's vast expanse and the rows of white headstones create a powerful and moving atmosphere. It's a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during one of the most significant battles of World War II.
No tickets needed and the guy in / of the cemetery) was nice, really helpful about all our questions."
Mike Waldvogel
"Impressive and very tidy, well maintained cemetery with mostly Commonwealth soldiers' graves. The main entrance is on a side road, not well traveled, so the entrance is rather nondescript.
Open every day, no entrance fee."
Peter F
"EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY contains the graves of men who died at all stages of the Western Desert campaigns, brought in from a wide area, but especially those who died in the Battle of El Alamein at the end of October 1942 and in the period immediately before that."
Vraťa Zpevak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located off a side road near El Alamein. While accessible by private car, many visitors opt for a guided tour from Alexandria, which includes transport and often visits other historical sites like the El Alamein War Museum.
The main entrance can be nondescript and is on a less-traveled side road. It's advisable to use GPS or have clear directions, especially if not on a tour.
Yes, it's possible to visit as a day trip, particularly from Alexandria. Guided tours are a popular option for maximizing time and understanding the history.
The El Alamein Commonwealth War Cemetery is open daily. There are no specific closing times mentioned, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Limited parking is typically available near the entrance for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee. Admission to the El Alamein Commonwealth War Cemetery is free for all visitors.
The cemetery is generally open daily during daylight hours. It's a place for quiet reflection, so visiting during peak tourist times might be less conducive to that.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography and focus on respectful documentation.
While there isn't a formal visitor center, cemetery caretakers are often present and helpful with questions.
Tours can often be booked online through travel agencies or directly with local operators in Alexandria. Look for options that include the war cemetery and museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is profoundly solemn, peaceful, and moving. The vast expanse of white headstones creates a powerful sense of remembrance and respect for the fallen.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to walk through the cemetery, read inscriptions, and reflect. If visiting the nearby museum, allocate more time.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to check with your tour operator or confirm on-site.
It commemorates Commonwealth soldiers who died during the Western Desert campaigns, particularly the Second Battle of El Alamein, a pivotal WWII engagement.
Yes, the cemetery is well-organized, and you can often find specific graves by searching the Commonwealth War Graves Commission database online beforehand or by asking cemetery staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The long, straight rows of headstones offer striking photographic compositions. The central memorial also provides a focal point.
Yes, but always do so respectfully. Focus on capturing the overall scene or the inscriptions without being intrusive.
Any camera or smartphone can capture the essence. Consider a wide-angle lens for the expansive rows and a prime lens for detail shots of inscriptions.
Generally, no strict restrictions, but always be mindful of the solemnity of the location. Avoid drone photography unless explicitly permitted.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and a more atmospheric feel. Midday sun can be harsh.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to read the inscriptions on a few headstones and discuss the concept of remembrance. The vast, organized rows of white stones can be visually striking. Consider visiting the nearby El Alamein War Museum for a more comprehensive understanding of the battles, which might be more engaging for younger visitors.
🌍 History Enthusiasts & WWII Buffs
Take time to read the various inscriptions and reflect on the personal stories behind the names. Consider researching specific regiments or individuals who fought in the area before your visit to add another layer of depth. The cemetery's meticulous maintenance by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission ensures an authentic and respectful experience.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Alexandria
Ensure your chosen tour includes sufficient time at the cemetery for quiet reflection. If traveling independently, factor in travel time and the potential for the cemetery's entrance to be less obvious. It's a worthwhile excursion that provides a powerful contrast to the coastal resorts often associated with the North Coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of El Alamein in WWII
This cemetery, along with others like the German and Italian cemeteries nearby, serves as a stark reminder of the intense conflict that raged across this desert landscape. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission meticulously maintains these sites, ensuring that the memory of those who fought and died is honored. Visitors often speak of the profound impact of walking among the thousands of white headstones, each representing a life lost in service.
Understanding the historical context of El Alamein enhances the visitor's experience. It transforms the cemetery from a collection of graves into a powerful testament to human courage, loss, and the enduring quest for peace. The inscriptions on the headstones, ranging from simple names to poignant verses, offer glimpses into the lives and the final thoughts of soldiers from across the Commonwealth.
Visiting as a Commonwealth Citizen
Many visitors from Commonwealth countries express profound thanks for the upkeep and the peaceful atmosphere. It's a place to connect with a significant part of their national heritage and to pay respects to those who served far from home. The inscriptions on the headstones can evoke a strong emotional response, reminding them of the personal cost of war and the importance of peace.
If you are a Commonwealth citizen planning a visit, consider researching any family connections to the battles fought in North Africa. This personal connection can make the experience even more meaningful. The cemetery staff, if present, are often knowledgeable and can provide additional insights into the history and the individuals interred there.
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