It is formed of stone, and is in three parts.

One stone forms the pedestal, another the shaft, and a third the capital.

The beauty of this column, the perfection of its workmanship, which still continues in excellent preservation, and its antiquity, so great that all distinct record of its origin is lost, have combined to make it for many ages the wonder and admiration of mankind.

Although no history of its origin has come down to us, a tradition has descended that Caesar built it during his residence in Egypt, to commemorate the name of Pompey; but whether it was his own victory over Pompey, or Pompey's own character and military fame which the structure was intended to signalize to mankind, can not now be known.

There is even some doubt whether it was erected by Caesar at all.
[Sidenote: Surrender of Pompey's officers.] [Sidenote: Caesar's generosity.] While Caesar was in Alexandria, many of Pompey's officers, now that their master was dead, and there was no longer any possibility of their rallying again under his guidance and command, came in and surrendered themselves to him.