Why Caesar became trapped in Alexandria
Caesar’s Civil War describes his intervention in the royal dispute and the arrival of forces opposing him. Control of ships, waterfront positions and access to supplies became essential. The surviving Alexandrian War, written by an uncertain author associated with Caesar’s campaigns, continues the story through attacks on water supplies, harbour fighting and the arrival of outside assistance.
Cleopatra’s position after the fighting
Caesar’s forces eventually prevailed, and Ptolemy XIII died during the final campaign. Cleopatra retained the throne alongside another brother, Ptolemy XIV. Egypt did not become a Roman province at this point: that followed Octavian’s conquest in 30 BC. The war strengthened Caesar’s influence, while Cleopatra continued governing a kingdom with its own dynastic interests and political traditions.
Questions people ask
Did Caesar destroy the Library of Alexandria?
Caesar burned ships during the fighting. Later writers connect the fire with lost books, but the extent and location of the damage remain disputed. A total destruction cannot be confidently reconstructed.
Was Egypt annexed after the Alexandrian War?
No. Cleopatra continued as queen after the fighting in 47 BC. Egypt became subject to direct Roman rule after the fall of Alexandria and Cleopatra’s death in 30 BC.
Step into Caesar and Cleopatra: The Alexandrian War
Besieged in the palace quarter with a small force and Cleopatra’s claim to Egypt’s throne at stake, hold the streets and the harbor, and decide when to set the enemy fleet alight.
This episode is a planned playable documentary. You can explore its narrated opening and make one decision now. The three acts below describe the full story in development. Once completed, it will be free for everyone.
- Hold the palace quarter
- Fire on the harbor
- The queen restored
Sources and perspective
Ancient accounts reflect their authors’ positions and often disagree. These sources inform the historical summary; dialogue, player roles and imagery in the documentary may be dramatized.
- Caesar · Civil War 3.106–112
Caesar’s arrival, the royal dispute and fighting around the fleet.
- Alexandrian War 1–33
An ancient continuation of Caesar’s campaign narrative; authorship is uncertain.
- Plutarch · Life of Caesar 49
One later account connecting the harbour fire with the loss of books.
An original historical guide by The Age of Rome. Updated 14 September 2026.
