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The lighthouse of Alexandria, commonly known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was located on the island of Pharos, which is situated near the city of Alexandria in Egypt. This iconic structure was built during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus in the 3rd century BC and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its purpose was to guide sailors safely into the busy harbor of Alexandria and to serve as a landmark for navigation.

The choice of Pharos as the location was significant because the island provided a strategic position, allowing for an unobstructed view of incoming ships and the surrounding waters. The lighthouse itself is noted for its innovative design and engineering, standing approximately 100 meters tall, which helped it to be seen from great distances.

The other location choices refer to places that do not have any historical connection with the lighthouse. The island of Rhodes and the island of Crete are well-known ancient sites, but neither housed the great lighthouse. Similarly, while Alexandria is the nearest city and its presence is crucial to the lighthouse's history, the structure itself was specifically built on the island of Pharos.