Ancient Egyptian City Canopus Unearthed, Revealing Hidden Treasures

Recent discoveries off the coast of Alexandria have unveiled the remnants of the ancient city of Canopus, believed to be over 2,000 years old. This submerged city, located in Abu Qir Bay, provides a remarkable glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization. The findings include buildings, artifacts, and a significant dock, shedding light on the city’s historical importance during the Ptolemaic dynasty.

Divers and archaeologists have recovered ancient statues and other relics through a coordinated operation that began on August 21, 2023. Heavy cranes were employed to lift some of these treasures from the depths, although most of the site remains protected under UNESCO guidelines. Sherif Fathi, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, emphasized that the excavation adheres to strict heritage protection rules, as only select artifacts meet the criteria for recovery. “There’s a lot underwater, but what we’re able to bring up is limited,” he stated, underscoring the importance of preserving the submerged cultural heritage.

Insights into Ancient Life

The underwater city of Canopus features an array of limestone buildings, which may have served various purposes such as places of worship, residential areas, and commercial spaces. Among the significant discoveries are rock-carved ponds and reservoirs that were likely used for domestic water storage and fish cultivation. Statues of royal figures, including a partially preserved sphinx bearing the cartouche of Ramses II, highlight the artistic and cultural achievements of the era.

Many artifacts retrieved from the site show signs of wear and damage. For instance, a granite figure from the Ptolemaic period is notably beheaded, while a marble bust of a Roman nobleman is missing its lower half. These remnants tell a story of a city that was once a vibrant hub before its eventual submersion due to natural disasters and rising sea levels.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

Canopus was likely a prominent center of trade and culture during its zenith, contributing significantly to ancient Egyptian society. The city, along with the nearby port of Heracleion, fell victim to a series of earthquakes and rising waters over the centuries. A 125-metre dock has also been found, featuring a merchant ship, stone anchors, and a harbour crane, indicating the city’s role as a bustling port until the Byzantine period.

The recovered artifacts are set to undergo restoration and will be exhibited at Alexandria’s National Museum. However, the coastal city faces significant threats from climate change, with predictions indicating that a third of Alexandria could be underwater or uninhabitable by 2050. The city is currently sinking at a rate of more than 3mm per year, raising concerns about the preservation of its rich historical heritage.

As archaeological efforts continue, the discoveries at Canopus not only enrich our understanding of ancient Egypt but also highlight the need for urgent action to protect vulnerable coastal sites. The ongoing investigation into this sunken city will undoubtedly reveal more about the lives and culture of those who once thrived there.