Besieged by a cataclysmic earthquake and engulfed in tidal waves, the once-great cities of Heracleion and Canopus in Egypt’s Nile Delta sank into the sea in the eighth century A.D. They remained hidden until 2000, when the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology organized an expedition to the submerged area—approximately 40 square miles—where they believed the cities were located. Directed by marine archaeologist Franck Goddio, the expedition has discovered two, or maybe three, cities. From statues of Egyptian gods, pharaohs and priests to jewelry, steles and architectural columns, the expedition has uncovered many stunning finds, some of which will be […]
