Lyceum (The), Alexandria

This Greek-Revival building was built in 1839 as the intellectual and cultural center for the city of Alexandria. The first floor held a library, the second a lecture hall. The Civil War brought these activities to an end, and the building became a hospital. It then served as a home and an office building and was saved from demolition by the city in 1974. The Lyceum became Alexandria's History Museum. The history and culture of this old city and surrounding area provide the focus for a permanent display of memorabilia, changing exhibits and special events.