Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), operating in the Moharam Bek district of central Alexandria, has unearthed a remarkable collection of archaeological and architectural elements. These findings offer significant insights into the urban development of Alexandria across various historical eras.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, described the discovery as a qualitative addition to Alexandria’s archaeological record. He emphasized that it reflects the city’s historical prestige as a preeminent cultural hub of the ancient world and highlights its unique status as a crossroads of diverse civilizations and accumulated heritage.
The Minister added that these results help redraw the urban map of ancient Alexandria. He noted that the find underscores Egypt's commitment to preserving its heritage through rescue excavations conducted alongside development projects, ensuring a balance between heritage conservation and sustainable development goals.
Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the SCA, explained that the excavations revealed a continuous chronological sequence starting from the Ptolemaic period, through the Roman era, and into the Byzantine period. This sequence demonstrates the site’s long-standing habitation across successive eras.
Key discoveries include a circular public bath (Tholoi) dating back to the late Ptolemaic period, as well as the remains of a Roman residential villa featuring sophisticated mosaic floors in various styles. Dr. El-Leithy remarked that these findings reflect a high level of luxury and urban planning during those times.
Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badie, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, noted that the site serves as a comprehensive model for the evolution of residential and service architecture in ancient Alexandria. Excavations uncovered advanced water installations, including a small plunge pool attached to the Roman villa, equipped with an integrated water management system.
He further highlighted the diverse mosaic techniques found at the site, specifically (Opus Tessellatum)and (Opus Sectile), showcasing the rich variety of artistic schools in Alexandria during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods.
Dr. Hisham Hussein, Head of the Central Department of Antiquities for Lower Egypt, stated that this discovery fills a crucial archaeological gap in the southeastern sector of ancient Alexandria, an area that had not been extensively studied previously.
"The results support and re-evaluate historical maps of the city, particularly the pioneering work of Mahmoud Bey el-Falaki," Dr. Hussein explained. He added that the find confirms the area remained within the urban walls of Alexandria until the Byzantine era before its importance diminished due to later urban shifts.
The mission also recovered a distinguished collection of portable artifacts, including marble statues of deities such as Bacchus and Asclepius, and a headless statue believed to represent Minerva. Additionally, coins, lamps, pottery, and stamped amphora handles were found, illustrating the flourishing commercial and cultural activity of ancient Alexandria and its extensive ties across the Mediterranean.
Mr. Ibrahim Mostafa, Head of the Mission and Director of the Central District, reported that the excavation lasted several months and yielded exceptional results. He confirmed that preliminary restoration has begun on the artifacts before their transfer to specialized laboratories. Discussions are currently underway to display the most prominent pieces at the Greco-Roman Museum in Alexandria to enhance the visitor experience, while excavations continue at the site, promising further discoveries in the near future.
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