Egyptian authorities announced on August 21, 2025, the discovery of a submerged ancient city in Abu Qir Bay, believed to be an extension of the historic city of Canopus. This significant find includes remnants of buildings, artifacts, and an ancient dock, all dating back over two millennia. The city succumbed to the sea due to a combination of seismic activity and rising water levels.
Among the unearthed treasures are statues of royal figures and sphinxes from the pre-Roman era. Notably, one sphinx bears the cartouche of Ramses II, a testament to its deep historical roots. The underwater ruins also reveal limestone structures, potentially used for worship or habitation, alongside reservoirs and ponds that likely served for water storage and aquaculture. Further exploration at a 125-meter dock uncovered a merchant ship, stone anchors, and a harbor crane, indicating continuous use by small vessels until the Byzantine period.
Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, emphasized a selective approach to artifact recovery, stating that only specific materials are being brought ashore, while the majority remains as part of the underwater heritage. This approach ensures the preservation of the submerged historical landscape.
Alexandria, the region where these discoveries were made, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels. Projections suggest that a significant portion of the city could be submerged by 2050, highlighting the urgency of understanding and preserving its coastal heritage. This vulnerability underscores the importance of such archaeological endeavors.
In a move to celebrate and share these incredible findings, Egypt is exploring plans for an underwater museum in Abu Qir Bay. This innovative museum aims to showcase the submerged ancient cities, transforming them into a unique cultural tourism attraction. The concept of an underwater museum in Alexandria has been discussed since the late 1990s, with proposals including fiberglass tunnels and even glass submarines to allow visitors to experience the submerged wonders, potentially attracting millions of visitors annually. The project has garnered international interest, with discussions involving UNESCO and potential funding from private entities, including Chinese corporations.