Overview:
Archaeologists have discovered the remains of an ancient pleasure boat in Alexandria’s submerged harbor. Researchers identified the vessel as a thalamegos, a luxury barge used during the Greco-Roman period, dating to the first century CE. The find, located near the underwater ruins of a Temple of Isis, provides new insight into elite maritime life and the natural events that contributed to the harbor’s submersion.
ALEXANDRIA, Egypt — Archaeologists have identified the remains of an ancient luxury vessel in Alexandria’s submerged harbor. This discovery is offering new insight into maritime life along Egypt’s Mediterranean coast during the Greco-Roman period.
Vessel Identified as a Thalamegos
The vessel, found beneath the waters of Alexandria’s ancient port, is believed to be a thalamegos—an ornate pleasure barge used by elites for ceremonial travel and public events. Researchers estimate the ship dates to the first century CE, making it nearly 2,000 years old.
Inscriptions Help Date the Wreck
According to archaeologists involved in the excavation, the identification is based on the wreck’s structural characteristics as well as Greek inscriptions found on components of the vessel. Researchers have examined the inscriptions, which seem to be casual graffiti. These provide insights into the ship’s age and its significance within Alexandria’s status as a prominent cultural and commercial hub during the Greco-Roman period.
Sign of High Society in Greco-Roman Alexandria
Historical records describe thalamegoi as ornate vessels built for wealthy elites and ceremonial use. The way they look and work shows how Egyptian and Hellenistic traditions mixed in Alexandria during the early Roman period.
Find Near the Sunken Temple of Isis
The wreck was found close to the sunken remains of a Temple of Isis, in an underwater archaeological zone that has produced many important artifacts. Researchers think that natural events like earthquakes or the slow sinking of the coast played a role in the ship’s sinking. These events have been recorded in the area’s history.
Ongoing Research Continues
Archaeologists continue to analyze the wreck. Further study is expected to provide additional insight into ancient shipbuilding techniques, daily life in Alexandria, and the ceremonial practices of the early Roman period.
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The identification, dating, and purpose of the vessel described in this article are based on preliminary archaeological analysis. Interpretations may evolve as further research and study are conducted. Some conclusions regarding the vessel’s use, cultural significance, and cause of sinking remain speculative.
