gems, archaeology, archaeogemology, Africa, Egypt, Alexandria

Alexander the Great founded a magnificent city by the sea in 331 BC. Over the next 300 years, Alexandria, Egypt, became the heart of the ancient world, renowned for its grand palaces, centers of learning, and the famous Pharos lighthouse—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Shaped by iconic figures such as Cleopatra, Marc Antony, and Julius Caesar, Alexandria led the ancient Mediterranean in shipbuilding, maritime trade, and naval power. Two millennia later, the city is once again in the global spotlight as underwater archaeologists uncover remnants of this “sunken city.” Millions have watched the recovery of submerged artifacts including sphinxes, columns, and thousands of blocks from the original Pharos lighthouse. These discoveries raise the questions: how did Alexandria become submerged beneath the sea, and how was this lost city rediscovered by underwater researchers? Underwater archaeologist, Kimberly Williams, examines how Alexandria, Egypt became one of the largest underwater archaeological sites in the world through a uniquely maritime perspective. Alexandria and the Sea will appeal to anyone interested in ancient maritime history or underwater archaeology.