Ancient Wonders Resurface After Millennia

In a breathtaking revelation, Egypt has retrieved remarkable remnants of a sunken city off the coast of Alexandria, uncovering buildings, artifacts, and an ancient dock dating back over 2,000 years.

Lost City of Canopus?

The submerged site, found in Abu Qir Bay, is thought to be an extension of Canopus, a thriving metropolis during the Ptolemaic dynasty, which ruled Egypt for nearly 300 years, and later under Roman control for about 600 years.

Nature’s Wrath and Time’s Toll

Natural disasters such as earthquakes and the relentless rise in sea levels have led to the city’s drowning, similar to the fates of nearby Heracleion.

Excavation Excitement at the Waterfront

On a recent Thursday, cranes meticulously lifted statues from the ocean's depths, while divers celebrated their extraordinary finds from the shoreline.

Preserving Our Underwater Heritage

Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathi, emphasized the significance of preserving this underwater treasure trove, stating, “There’s a lot underwater, but what we’re able to bring up is limited.” He assured that much of this submerged history remains untouched.

Revealing Remarkable Ruins

Among the underwater discoveries are limestone structures potentially serving as temples, homes, and commercial spaces, alongside reservoirs and stone-carved ponds for water storage and aquaculture.

Sphinxes and Statues of Royalty

Archaeologists also uncovered impressive statues, including a partially intact sphinx bearing the name of Ramses II, one of ancient Egypt's most renowned pharaohs. However, many artifacts, like a beheaded granite statue and the lower half of a marble Roman nobleman, show signs of wear from centuries beneath the waves.

A Glimpse into Ancient Maritime Life

Among the fascinating finds was a 125-meter dock, which served as a harbor for small vessels until the Byzantine era. Remnants of a merchant ship, stone anchors, and a harbor crane were also identified, casting light on the maritime activities of the time.

Alexandria's Plight in a Changing World

Despite its rich tapestry of ancient ruins, Alexandria faces an existential threat from the sea, much like its submerged counterparts. This coastal city is especially vulnerable to climate change, sinking over 3mm each year.

Future Under Water?

The stark reality is that by 2050, even the United Nations predicts a third of Alexandria could be submerged or uninhabitable, raising urgent concerns for its ancient legacy.