In a remarkable discovery off the coast of Egypt, a team of underwater archaeologists, led by the renowned marine expert Franck Goddio, has unearthed a treasure trove valued at millions of dollars.
This astonishing find has unveiled long-buried secrets beneath the Mediterranean waters.
The focus of this expedition was the ancient port city of Thonis-Heracleion, where once stood a temple devoted to the god Amun. Pharaohs of old used to visit this sacred site to receive their titles as universal rulers from the highest deity in the Egyptian pantheon.
Now, the ruins of this temple have yielded a wealth of treasures, including intricate silver ritual instruments, opulent golden jewelry, and delicate alabaster containers meant for perfumes and unguents. These precious artifacts vividly illustrate the city’s opulence and the fervent devotion of its former residents.
In a truly surprising twist, the archaeological team also unearthed underground structures that date back to the 5th century BC. These structures are supported by exceptionally well-preserved wooden posts and beams. Despite the cataclysmic events that unfolded many centuries ago, these wooden relics have remarkably withstood the test of time.
One of the most exciting revelations was the discovery of a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, located east of the Amun temple. Among the findings were bronze and ceramic objects, indicating the significant influence of Greek culture within the city during the reign of the Pharaohs of the Saïte dynasty. It’s also clear that Greek mercenaries, who defended access to the Kingdom at the mouth of the Nile’s Canopic Branch, left their mark on this ancient city.
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The breathtaking discoveries owe their existence to cutting-edge geophysical prospecting technologies, which can detect hidden objects buried beneath layers of clay. These findings offer a captivating glimpse into the past and shed light on the coexistence of different cultures within this ancient Egyptian port city.
Once the largest Mediterranean port in Egypt, the city of Thonis-Heracleion now lies submerged 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Egypt’s present coastline. Its submergence was the result of rising sea levels, earthquakes, tidal waves, and land liquefaction events, which have transformed this once-vibrant metropolis into an underwater treasure trove of historical significance.