An Ancient Treasure Discovered off of Egypt's Coast Dazzles Archaeologists

 

A sunken temple, a sanctuary in Egypt, was found in 2023 revealing one huge treasure. Artifacts discovered in the temple include gold objects and jewelry. A spectacular pillar made of lapis lazuli was found in a canal off the coast. Overflowing with treasure, this underwater discovery is astonishing.

Collapsing halfway through the second century B.C., the temple was dedicated to Amun, an Egyptian god. Pharaohs traveled to this place of distinction to be given the title of "universal king."

Once a port city of Thonis-Heraclaion, this abandoned collapsed building (underwater) 4.3 miles from the current coast of Egypt, was destroyed by the combination of an earthquake and resulting tidal wave. 

Turning into a cauldron of liquified mud, this ancient city sank into the Nile Delta. Archaeologists unearthed silver ritual instruments, and alabaster containers that held perfumes and unguents.

In addition to the above-mentioned treasures, divers discovered preserved wooden structures dating to the fifth century B.C. It was amazing that the wood beams and posts survived this kind of cataclysm. 

Archaeologists found a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The sanctuary also contained precious artifacts of bronze and ceramics. Greeks were allowed to trade and settle in the city while the pharaohs ruled, and these very same Greeks were allowed to have their own gods at the temple. The sanctuary also held a cache of Greek weapons

Perhaps Greek mercenaries were there defending this access to Egypt. The access was at the mouth of the Nile's westernmost branch.