Summary
Archaeologists found a nearly 2,000-year-old boat wreck off the coast of Alexandria, Egypt. The wreck is believed to be a pleasure barge, possibly used for rituals, from the early Roman period.
Key Facts
- The boat was found submerged in an ancient port near Alexandria.
- Excavations were led by archaeologist Franck Goddio and his team.
- The boat is estimated to have been about 115 feet long and 23 feet wide.
- It dates back to the first half of the 1st century A.D.
- The boat, called a "thalamagos," likely had a flat-bottom design and was propelled by oars.
- The wreck was found in a location linked to significant figures like Queen Cleopatra.
- The boat may have played a role in religious rituals related to the goddess Isis.
- It could have sunk during the destruction of a temple around 50 AD.
