About Alexandria, VA
Alexandria, Virginia is a city of 130,000 residents located on the western bank of the Potomac River. As one of the principal cities in northern Virginia, Alexandria’s economy benefits from its proximity to Washington, D.C., and features many companies providing products and services to the federal government, as well as many trade associations and not-for-profit organizations.
Alexandria was a part of the original District of Columbia before being ceded back to the Commonwealth of Virginia, and it remains closely linked, both physically and culturally, to the nation’s capital. Indeed, Alexandria is connected to Washington, D.C. through the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority metro rail system. Many of its residents are employed by the Department of Defense at the nearby Pentagon, by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which is headquartered in Alexandria, or by other federal agencies.
Alexandria’s rich history dates back to colonial times, and its colonial heritage is reflected in the Old Town section of the city, an historic district that was established in 1749. The Old Town section is a hub of nightlife and other activities and is known for its restaurants, art galleries, and shops.
Alexandria is the location of a number of historic sites which reflect its role in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War, as well as the activities of familiar American historical figures like George Washington and Robert E. Lee. Other nearby attractions in northern Virginia include Mount Vernon, the Arlington National Cemetery, and the Iwo Jima Memorial.
