Lost City Founded by Alexander the Great Discovered by Archaeologists in Southern Iraq.

Unearthing Alexandria on the Tigris: A Lost Metropolis

According to TSN.ua: In southern Iraq, researchers have uncovered the remains of Alexandria on the Tigris, an ancient city established by Alexander the Great. This breakthrough follows extensive archaeological efforts that began in the 2010s, led by a team including Dr. Jane Moon, Dr. Robert Killick, and Dr. Stuart Campbell. The discovery sheds new light on the Hellenistic period in Mesopotamia, a region often overshadowed by better-known sites in Greece and Egypt.

Founded in the 4th century BCE, Alexandria on the Tigris spanned roughly 6.5 square kilometers. To explore the site, archaeologists employed a range of advanced techniques. High-resolution geophysical scanning provided detailed insights into the city’s layout. Drone imagery revealed the outlines of structures buried beneath soil, while landscape analysis confirmed the location matched historical records of a strategic port.

What the Findings Reveal

The research uncovered a clear grid of streets and residential blocks, pointing to meticulous urban planning. Archaeologists also identified massive defensive walls that once protected the city, along with industrial zones featuring numerous kilns, indicating a robust economy. Additional discoveries included temple complexes, an intricate canal system, and a harbor, all underscoring the city’s importance in antiquity.

These findings not only add new chapters to the history of Alexandria on the Tigris but also highlight archaeology’s role in understanding ancient civilizations. The unearthing of this city in southern Iraq promises fresh insights into the culture and economy of Alexander the Great’s era.

The discovery of Alexandria on the Tigris could significantly reshape perceptions of the scale and organization of cities founded by Alexander the Great. It may also spur further research in a region rich with historical context. The city’s remains offer a valuable opportunity to study ancient architecture, urban planning, and economics, as well as the daily lives of its inhabitants.