Nestled off the coast of Alexandria, the small island of Antirhodos has emerged as a unique archaeological treasure trove, providing a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations. Discovered by underwater archaeologists Franck Goddio and Ashraf Abdel Raouf in 1996, Antirhodos unveiled meticulous architectural preparations dating back to 250 BC, setting the stage for its eventual urbanization.
Cleopatra’s Enigmatic Realm:
Among the remarkable structures uncovered by Goddio was Cleopatra’s palace, an opulent testament to the grandeur of Egypt’s last Pharaoh. Situated five meters beneath the water’s surface, this once-majestic palace is now a captivating underwater site, awaiting further exploration.
Tragedy Strikes:
Tragically, the fate of Cleopatra’s palace and the island of Antirhodos took a dramatic turn in the year 365. A colossal earthquake, believed to be the most significant in the ancient Mediterranean, unleashed a devastating tsunami that wreaked havoc as far as the shores of Spain. The earthquake’s epicenter off the coast of Crete spared no mercy, unleashing destruction upon the nearby city of Alexandria, where Cleopatra’s palace stood as a silent witness to the cataclysmic events.
Witnessing the Calamity:
Ammianus Marcellinus, a Roman soldier and eyewitness to the catastrophe, vividly recounted the horror of the earthquake and ensuing tsunami. The sea receded ominously before roaring back, claiming thousands of lives and reshaping the landscape beneath its turbulent surface.
Underwater Exploration:
Today, the submerged remnants of Antirhodos offer an unparalleled opportunity for tourists and adventurers alike. More than 20,000 objects and artifacts have been recovered, painting a vivid picture of the island’s rich history. Cleopatra’s underwater palace, with its 30-meter-long shipwreck, 7-meter-tall pillars, granite blocks, sphinxes, and statues, stands as a mesmerizing testament to the ancient world’s architectural splendor.
Cleopatra’s Final Resting Place:
The underwater palace may hold the key to solving the mystery of Cleopatra’s final resting place. While historians propose three potential crypts for her burial, Antirhodos remains the least explored. The enigma surrounding Cleopatra’s burial site adds an air of intrigue to the submerged palace, beckoning researchers and history enthusiasts to delve into its secrets.
The Future Awaits:
As Egypt plans the construction of an underwater museum in Alexandria, Cleopatra’s palace and the artifacts from Antirhodos are poised to take center stage. Until then, intrepid adventurers can explore the depths with scuba diving gear, uncovering the submerged wonders of this ancient marvel.
Antirhodos, with its sunken temples, monuments, and Cleopatra’s underwater palace, offers a captivating journey through time. The island’s tragic history, coupled with the allure of its submerged treasures, invites exploration and promises to unveil more mysteries from the ancient world. As the cinematic portrayal of Cleopatra by Gal Gadot awaits its global audience, the real-life discovery of Antirhodos stands as a testament to the enduring fascination with Egypt’s last Pharaoh and the remnants of her once-majestic realm.