Roman Shipwrecks Found Off Coast of Alexandria, Egypt

Votive to Osiris found near Heraklion, Egypt — Votive to Osiris found in waters nears ancient city of Heraklion. Photo courtesy of Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities.

Crystal head found in Roman shipwreck off coast of Alexandria. Photo courtesy of Egyptian Antiquities Ministry.

The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities has announced archaeologists from the Ministry’s Underwater Archaeology Department and from the European Institute of Underwater Archaeology have found the remains of three ancient Roman ships that wrecked in the eastern port of Alexandria.

To date, archaeologists have recovered a “royal head” carved into crystal, which the Antiquities Ministry says is likely that of “the commander of the armies ‘Antonio.’” They have also found gold coins dating to the time of Augustus Caesar, first Emperor of Rome.

According to the Ministry, archaeologists have also uncovered large planks and pottery fragments, leading them to believe there is a fourth Roman ship wrecked somewhere nearby.

In addition to excavations off the coast of Alexandria, the same group of archaeologists has been working off the coast of the nearby ancient city of Heraklion, where they have found a votive to the god Osiris.

Excavations within the greater Abu Qir Bay, which includes Alexandria and Heraklion, began in September.