Egypt’s underwater treasures gained significant attention as archaeologists lifted artefacts from a sunken city located off the coast of Alexandria. This incredible find, spearheaded by Egypt’s tourism and antiquities minister, Sherif Fathi, has uncovered remains more than 2,000 years old. The ongoing excavation at Abu Qir Bay uncovers pieces of history that shed light on the ancient city of Canopus, once a vibrant hub during the Ptolemaic dynasty and the Roman Empire.
Like those above water, the ruins underneath the waves are built from limestone. These structures must have functioned as hubs of worship, living, and entrepreneurial or mechanized innovation. The most stunning find, though, is a 125-metre wooden dock. The inlet served as a harbor for small ships all the way up into the Byzantine period. Archaeologists had a thrilling archaeological find at this site. They discovered a merchant ship, stone anchors and a harbour crane that date back to the Ptolemaic and Roman eras.
Though these finds have generated much excitement, Minister Fathi was keen to stress that stringent criteria dictate the reclamation of artefacts. He explained that there’s still a lot lying under the water, but only certain materials can be pulled up. In addition to maintaining the sanctuary’s historic integrity, the thoughtful selection process ensures that the uniqueness of each site is respected. This allows researchers to better understand its importance.
The artefacts retrieved include statues of royal figures and sphinxes from the pre-Roman era, although many are missing body parts. One of the most arresting finds is a beheaded Ptolemaic figure sculpted in granite. Also revealed is the lower half of a life-sized marble portrait that likely depicts a Roman nobleman. These magnificent archaeological finds are a glorious testament to the artistic accomplishments of ancient cultures. Beyond calling attention to the plight of Egypt’s coastal cities, Dr.
The coastal city of Alexandria faces significant threats from climate change and rising sea levels, submerging at a rate of more than 3mm each year. The waterside capital of Heracleion and its bustling harbor claimed by the unforgiving march of the years. Earthquakes and the on-rushing sea accelerated their demise.
Scientists and archaeologists are currently studying the artifacts intensely. As each item is raised gingerly from the depths of the lake with cranes, scuba divers in full wetsuits offer assistance from shore. The current excavations have much more to teach us about the lives of the people who once lived on this flourishing urban canvas.