The discovery of giant stone blocks weighing 80 tons under the sea’s surface, which are considered part of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the wonders of the ancient world, has sparked interest in studying ancient engineering, maritime archeology, and the history of the Mediterranean region.
These massive architectural fragments were found on the floor of Alexandria’s eastern harbour, including lintels, gates and paving stones, and provide valuable information about the formation and fall of this giant lighthouse and the methods used to build this giant lighthouse. Through research initiatives such as Pharos, scientists study the lighthouse through photogrammetry, computer reconstruction, and stone analysis.
Scientists have discovered 22 giant stones associated with living organisms Pharos of Alexandria
The existence of the sunken remains of the Pharos of Alexandria has been known for decades, but more discoveries have recently become possible. The Dassault Systemes team was able to find 22 huge stone blocks, each weighing between 70 and 80 tons. Details such as the door lintel, threshold stones and massive stones indicate that they formed the entrance to the lighthouse. The current research is carried out within the framework of the PHAROS project organized by scientists from the Center National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS).
As stated by Isabelle Hery, the expedition’s lead archaeologist, the parts of the lighthouse should be analyzed as pieces of a puzzle, allowing for a digital reconstruction of the monument. Thus, the current discovery is considered a breakthrough in underwater archaeology because it helps reveal the secrets of ancient architecture.
Lighthouse of Alexandria: one of the Seven Wonders of the World
The Lighthouse of Alexandria, referred to as the Pharos, was built in the 3rd century BC during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus.
It was more than 100 meters high and served as a navigational aid that facilitated the safe anchoring of ships in the busy Egyptian port. For many years, the lighthouse was considered one of the tallest man-made structures and an example of Hellenistic architectural excellence. It is believed that it had three levels, consisting of square, octagonal and cylindrical shapes.However, several earthquakes from the 10th to the 14th century contributed to its demolition, causing large parts of the building to fall into the water. The discovery of these huge boulders is therefore linked to written records of the lighthouse’s deterioration.
Engineering Marvel: How the Ancient Builders Moved Stones 80 tons
One interesting aspect of this find is the weight and precision of the carved stones. Transporting stones weighing about 80 tons is a daunting task even in modern times, which raises many questions about the engineering capabilities of ancient civilizations.According to experts, the use of leverage, ramps and manpower would have allowed ancient people to move and place these heavy stones.
It also takes into account architectural elements from Greece and Egypt, which indicates a fusion of cultures.The level of precision shown in the stones, as well as the incorporation of stones into large-scale structures, demonstrates the sophistication of the engineering skills of ancient civilizations.
Digital restructuring and the way forward
Instead of building a replica of the lighthouse in reality, the new approach entails creating a digital replica of the lighthouse.
Using modern technology, each stone is scanned and used in a digital reconstruction of the lighthouse.Besides being useful in determining whether certain theories about the lighthouse’s construction or collapse hold up, it gives historians and people interested in history a chance to view this engineering marvel in all its glory.In sum, although the location of the eighty tons of rock confirms the existence of the structure, there is another factor of utmost importance; It is a reminder that even beneath the surface of the sea there are traces of our imagination and innovation.
