Overview

• The finds were presented in Alexandria on Underwater Cultural Heritage Day on August 20 in an event led by Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathi.
• Three recovered pieces were shown: a colossal sphinx inscribed with the name of Ramesses II, a late Ptolemaic figure, and the base of a statue of a Roman noble.
• Archaeological analysis indicates the site preserves a complete urban area with temples, houses, cisterns, an ancient harbor and quays.
• Authorities said only select objects are being lifted using divers, harnesses and cranes, while the bulk of the remains will stay in place as submerged heritage.
• The displayed pieces were moved to Alexandria’s National and Greco-Roman museums, and Egypt plans continued exploration of Abu Qir Bay.