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The finding of giant stone blocks weighing 80 tons under the sea, which are considered part of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the wonders of the ancient world, has sparked interest in the study of ancient engineering, marine archaeology, and the history of the Mediterranean area. Found on the floor of the eastern harbour of Alexandria, these huge architectural fragments, including lintels, gateways, and paving stones, provide valuable information on the composition, fall, and methods used in the construction of this giant lighthouse. Through research initiatives such as PHAROS, scientists are studying the lighthouse through photogrammetry, computer reconstructions, and stone analysis.
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Scientists uncover 22 giant stones linked to the Pharos of Alexandria
The existence of sunken remains of the Pharos of Alexandria has been known for decades, but it has recently become possible to make many more discoveries. The Dassault Systemes’ team managed to find 22 huge stone blocks, each weighing around 70 to 80 tons. Details such as the door lintel, threshold stones, and huge stones suggest that they formed the entrance to the lighthouse. The current investigation takes place within the framework of the PHAROS project organised by scientists from the Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS). As stated by Isabelle Hairy, the lead archaeologist for the mission, the fragments of the lighthouse should be analysed as pieces of the puzzle, allowing for the digital reconstruction of the monument. Thus, the current discovery is considered a breakthrough in underwater archaeology since it helps to uncover the secrets of the ancient architecture.
The lighthouse of alexandria: one of the seven wonders
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 metres high and acted as a navigation aid that facilitated the safe docking of ships in the busy Egyptian harbour. For many years, the lighthouse was considered one of the tallest buildings made by man and an example of Hellenistic architectural superiority. It is believed to have had three levels, consisting of square, octagonal, and cylindrical shapes.Nonetheless, several quakes from the 10th to the 14th century contributed to its demolition, leading to substantial parts of the building falling into the water. Thus, the discovery of these massive rocks correlates with the written records on the deterioration of the lighthouse.
Engineering marvel: How ancient builders moved 80-ton stones
One of the intriguing aspects of this discovery is the weight and precision of the carved stones. It is a daunting task to transport stones that weigh around 80 tons even in modern times, which raises many questions about the engineering abilities of ancient civilisations.According to experts, the use of leverage, ramps, and manpower will allow ancient individuals to transport and position these heavy stones. It also takes into account architectural elements from Greece and Egypt, which is an indication that there was fusion between cultures.The level of precision exhibited in the stones, as well as the incorporation of the stones in large-scale structures, shows how sophisticated the engineering skills of ancient civilisations were.
Digital reconstruction and the way forward
Instead of constructing an exact replica of the lighthouse in reality, the new approach entails the creation of a digital replica of the lighthouse. With 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 construction or collapse of the lighthouse hold water, it gives historians and people with an interest in history an opportunity to view this marvel of engineering in all its glory.To sum up, although locating the eighty tons of rocks confirms the existence of the structure, there is one other extremely important factor; it is a reminder that even below the surface of the sea lie traces of our imagination and innovation. Go to Source
