A stele (stone monument) from the sunken ancient Egyptian city of Heracleion recovered from the bottom of the ocean.

A stele (stone monument) from the sunken ancient Egyptian city of Heracleion recovered from the bottom of the ocean.

The city of Heracleion, also known as Thonis, was an ancient Egyptian city located near the mouth of the Nile River. It was a prosperous and influential port city during the Late Period of ancient Egypt.

Over time the city gradually sank into the Mediterranean Sea due to a combination of factors: subsidence (gradual sinking) of the land, rising sea levels, and natural disasters.

For centuries, the existence of Heracleion was known only through historical texts and ancient references. The city became a subject of myth and legend, with many doubting its actual existence. However, in the early 2000s, a team of underwater archaeologists led by Franck Goddio discovered the remains of Heracleion submerged in Aboukir Bay near Alexandria, Egypt.

The discovery was made possible through the use of advanced diving equipment and underwater mapping technology. The team found a wealth of artifacts and structures that provided valuable insights into the history and culture of the city. Among the findings were statues, sarcophagi, jewelry, and even the remains of a temple dedicated to the god Amun.

All What's You Should Know: Dig into history, fact, science, true crime, and beyond with All What's you should know — where: where you'll discover the most interesting things that you Should know. Feel free to explore our blog