The discovery of giant stone blocks weighing 80 tons beneath the sea, believed to be part of the Lighthouse of Alexandria—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—has reignited interest in ancient engineering, marine archaeology, and the history of the Mediterranean region.
Discovery of the Sunken Blocks
Found on the floor of the eastern harbour of Alexandria, these huge architectural fragments include lintels, gateways, and paving stones. They provide valuable information about the composition, collapse, and construction methods of this towering lighthouse. Through research initiatives such as the PHAROS project, scientists are studying the lighthouse using photogrammetry, computer reconstructions, and stone analysis.
22 Giant Stones Unearthed
The existence of sunken remains of the Pharos of Alexandria has been known for decades, but recent advances have enabled many more discoveries. The Dassault Systemes team identified 22 huge stone blocks, each weighing around 70 to 80 tons. Details such as door lintels, threshold stones, and massive blocks suggest they formed the entrance to the lighthouse. The current investigation is part of the PHAROS project, organized by scientists from the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS). Lead archaeologist Isabelle Hairy stated that the fragments should be analyzed like puzzle pieces, allowing for digital reconstruction of the monument. This discovery is considered a breakthrough in underwater archaeology, helping to uncover the secrets of ancient architecture.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria: One of the Seven Wonders
The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos, was built in the 3rd century BC during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus. It stood over 100 metres high and served as a navigation aid, facilitating safe docking of ships in the busy Egyptian harbour. For centuries, it was one of the tallest man-made structures and a symbol of Hellenistic architectural superiority. It is believed to have had three levels: square, octagonal, and cylindrical shapes. However, several earthquakes from the 10th to the 14th centuries caused its gradual demolition, leading to substantial parts of the building falling into the water. The discovery of these massive rocks correlates with written records on the lighthouse's deterioration.
Engineering Marvel: How Ancient Builders Moved 80-Ton Stones
One of the most intriguing aspects of this discovery is the weight and precision of the carved stones. Transporting stones weighing around 80 tons is a daunting task even by modern standards, raising questions about the engineering abilities of ancient civilizations. According to experts, the use of leverage, ramps, and manpower likely allowed ancient builders to transport and position these heavy stones. The architectural elements also reflect a fusion of Greek and Egyptian cultures. The precision exhibited in the stones and their incorporation into large-scale structures demonstrate the sophistication of ancient engineering skills.
Digital Reconstruction and the Way Forward
Instead of constructing a physical replica, the new approach involves creating a digital replica of the lighthouse. Using modern technology, each stone is scanned and used in a digital reconstruction. This not only helps validate theories about the construction or collapse of the lighthouse but also gives historians and enthusiasts an opportunity to view this marvel in all its glory. In conclusion, while locating the 80-ton rocks confirms the existence of the structure, it also serves as a reminder that even beneath the sea lie traces of human imagination and innovation.
