22 Massive Blocks from the Lighthouse of Alexandria Recovered from the Mediterranean Sea Floor.

Stone Blocks Retrieved from the Depths of the Mediterranean

According to TSN.ua: Divers have successfully recovered 22 enormous stone blocks from the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea, pieces that once belonged to the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria. For over a thousand years, this architectural marvel guided ships into the port of Alexandria, serving as a crucial navigational landmark. The recovered blocks are extremely heavy, with some weighing as much as 80 tons, highlighting the immense size and scale of the original structure.

Constructed around the 3rd century BCE under the rule of Ptolemy II, the Lighthouse of Alexandria stood more than 100 meters tall. Its beacon at the top could be seen from up to 50 kilometers away, making it an indispensable aid for sailors of that era. However, the lighthouse suffered severe damage in the 14th century due to earthquakes that struck in 1303 and 1323.

The PHAROS Project

Today, these recovered blocks are being studied as part of the international PHAROS project. Researchers are employing modern technologies, including 3D scanning, to create a digital twin of the lighthouse. This process aims to preserve historical heritage and uncover new insights into one of antiquity's most famous architectural achievements. Analyzing the stone blocks will provide a better understanding of the lighthouse's construction techniques and its role in ancient maritime navigation.

The retrieval of these blocks from the Mediterranean seafloor marks a significant step in exploring the history and architecture of the ancient world. The PHAROS project opens up fresh opportunities for studying and preserving monuments that profoundly influenced the development of seafaring and navigation. These efforts could help restore knowledge about the technological accomplishments of past civilizations and underscore the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.