Egyptian-French underwater archaeologists made significant discoveries in the sunken city of Tonis Heraklion, Alexandria

 According to a statement by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, an archaeological mission consisting of Egyptian and French researchers has made significant discoveries during underwater excavations in the sunken city of Tonis Heraklion in Abu Qir Bay, Alexandria. Among the findings is a temple dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, dating back to the fifth century BC. The mission also uncovered various artifacts associated with the temple of Amun Grip.

Mostafa Waziri, the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, mentioned that the team found imported bronze and ceramic objects from Greece within the temple. Additionally, they discovered the remains of structures supported by wooden beams, which can be traced back to the fifth century BC. These findings provide valuable insights into the historical and cultural significance of the sunken city and shed light on the worship practices and trade connections of that time.

Frank Goddio, the director of the European Institute of Marine Archaeology, highlighted additional discoveries made by the mission. In the Western Temple of Amun, they located the area where offerings, vows, and precious items were stored. Among the findings were a collection of golden jewelry, including lion-shaped earrings, a wajit eye pendant, and alabaster containers used for perfumes and cosmetic ointments. The mission also uncovered a set of silver ritual dishes used in religious and funerary rituals, a votive handle made of limestone, and a bronze jug shaped like a duck. With Egypt tours you can provide valuable insights into the religious and cultural practices of the time.

It's worth noting that the mention of Alexandria shore excursions and Egypt tour packages seems unrelated to the archaeological discoveries and may be an advertisement or unrelated information.

According to Dr. Islam Selim, the Director General of the Department of Sunken Antiquities, the mission also discovered the storage area for offerings, vows, and precious items in the Western Temple of Amun. This area contained a collection of golden jewelry, including lion-shaped earrings, a wajit eye pendant, and alabaster jars used to store perfumes and cosmetic ointments.

Dr. Selim further explained that the sunken city of Tonis Heraklion is located approximately 7 kilometers off the coast of Abu Qir. It was once the largest port in Egypt along the Mediterranean coast, predating the founding of Alexandria by Alexander the Great in 331 BC. Subsequent earthquakes caused the city to sink entirely beneath the sea. Its rediscovery took place in the year 2000.

Alexandria gained fame for several remarkable landmarks, including the Citadel of Qaitbey, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Another prominent attraction was the Great Bibliotheca Alexandria, which stood as the largest library in the ancient world. Additionally, the city's Necropolis was recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.

For an exceptional Egypt day tour, visitors can explore the renowned sites of the Qaitbey Castle, Pompey's Pillar, and the Montaza Gardens during a private day trip from Alexandria Attractions, These locations offer a captivating and unforgettable experience for travelers.