Recent archaeological efforts have brought to light significant discoveries from the submerged ancient cities of Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus, located in Abu Qir Bay, near Alexandria, Egypt. These cities, which sank due to natural disasters in the 8th century AD, have yielded a wealth of artifacts, offering a glimpse into a world long thought lost.
Among the treasures uncovered are ritual instruments, jewelry, and statues from the Ptolemaic period. Noteworthy finds include a granite head of a priest, now on display at the Arab World Institute in Paris, and various objects from the Temple of Amun-Gereb. These items highlight the city’s rich cultural and religious history, particularly its connection to the Osiris ceremonies, an ancient Egyptian myth celebrated through elaborate annual rituals.
The San José Galleon: A Treasure Beyond Wealth
The wreck of the San José galleon, a Spanish ship that sank in 1708 off the coast of Colombia, remains one of the most intriguing sunken treasures. Recent explorations emphasize its historical value over its material wealth. The ship, which carried a massive cargo of gold, silver, and emeralds, is now seen as a vital source of historical data.
Efforts by the Colombian Institute of Archeology and History aim to uncover more about the daily lives of the 600 people on board, their cargo, and the ship’s artillery. These investigations, inspired by similar projects like the British HMS Looe, seek to connect the scattered stories of the ship’s builders, crew, and passengers, thus enriching our understanding of colonial-era maritime history.
New Discoveries in Alexandria
In Alexandria, the ongoing excavation of the sunken city of Thonis-Heracleion continues to reveal new artifacts. Recent finds include precious objects and jewelry from the Temple of Amun Gereb, which were discovered embedded in hard clay. These well-preserved items, including silver ritual instruments and gold jewelry, provide insight into the city’s wealth and the religious practices of its inhabitants.
The discovery of a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite further underscores the city’s historical significance as a bustling port and a melting pot of cultures. The artifacts found here, ranging from bronze objects to Greek weapons, paint a vivid picture of life in this ancient city before it was submerged.
Shipwrecks Off New Jersey’s Coast
Closer to home, the waters off the coast of Island Beach State Park in New Jersey hide a trove of maritime history. An exhibit at the park’s interpretive center, created in collaboration with the NJ Maritime Museum and Twin Lights Historic Site, showcases artifacts from various shipwrecks. These include items from the former US Life Saving Service and the US Coast Guard, offering a fascinating look at the region’s nautical past.
This exhibit highlights the significance of preserving underwater cultural heritage and provides visitors with an educational glimpse into the state’s rich maritime history.
