The ancient lighthouse, or Pharos of Alexandria, was erected during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus between 279–283 BCE. The earliest known description of it was made by the Greek historian and geographer, Strabo, who visited Alexandria in about 30 BCE. In modern times, the detailed description of this monument made by German architect Hermann Tiersch in 1906 has also contributed to our knowledge of the Pharos. Alex Med has constructed four models of the Pharos showing different stages of deterioration. The final blow was a violent earthquake in 1303 CE, which brought about its final destruction in 1326 CE.