Located off the coast of Alexandria, the small island of Antirhodos is a treasure trove of historical marvels. Its unique position has preserved an array of temples and monuments from ancient times, captivating the imaginations of historians and archaeologists. As anticipation builds for the release of the new Cleopatra movie starring Gal Gadot, interest in Antirhodos is expected to surge, drawing visitors eager to uncover its secrets.
Architectural Marvels: Echoes of the Past on Antirhodos Island
In 1996, underwater archaeologists Franck Goddio and Ashraf Abdel Raouf made a significant discovery on Antirhodos. They found evidence of meticulously planned architectural works dating back to around 250 BCE, indicating the island’s deliberate urbanization. Among the revealed structures were a temple dedicated to Caesar, an unfinished palace for Mark Antony, a temple honoring the Egyptian goddess Isis, columned avenues, monuments, a port, and Cleopatra’s royal residence.
The Devastating Earthquake: The Demise of Cleopatra’s Palace
In 365, Antirhodos was struck by a catastrophic earthquake, considered one of the most significant in the Ancient Mediterranean. The epicenter was off the coast of Crete, and the resulting tsunami devastated the nearby city of Alexandria. The island of Antirhodos was not spared, and its temples, harbors, and Cleopatra’s palace were obliterated by nature’s fury.
A Witness Account: Ammianus Marcellinus and the Catastrophic Tsunami
Roman soldier Ammianus Marcellinus documented the terrifying events, describing a powerful tremor followed by the sea retreating, exposing ravines and valleys. People gathered stranded sea creatures, unaware of the impending disaster. Suddenly, the sea roared back with a vengeance, unleashing a tsunami that claimed thousands of lives. Cleopatra’s once-thriving palace was engulfed by the waves, altering the landscape of Antirhodos forever.
A Submerged Treasure Trove: Exploring the Underwater Site
Today, explorers can dive into the waters around Antirhodos to witness the remnants of this ancient catastrophe. The underwater site has yielded over 20,000 artifacts, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Cleopatra’s era. Cleopatra’s underwater palace, lying submerged at a depth of five meters (16 feet), is the island’s jewel. It is a poignant irony that, like her palace, Cleopatra’s final resting place remains undiscovered.
The Enigma of Cleopatra’s Underwater Palace
Cleopatra’s underwater palace is a significant historical site, not only showcasing ancient opulence but also holding mysteries about Cleopatra’s life and legacy. It is believed to be one of the possible burial sites for Cleopatra and Mark Antony. However, it remains the least investigated of the three proposed crypts, leaving room for speculation and further exploration.
From Alexander to Cleopatra: The Macedonian Influence on Egypt’s History
Cleopatra’s reign marked the end of the Macedonian Ptolemaic dynasty, which began with Alexander the Great’s conquest of Egypt and the founding of Alexandria. For nearly 300 years, Egypt was part of the Macedonian empire, influenced by its culture, art, and architecture. This legacy shaped Cleopatra’s rule and the rich tapestry of ancient Egypt’s history.
As Egypt plans to construct an underwater museum in Alexandria, interest in Cleopatra’s underwater palace will undoubtedly grow. Until then, history enthusiasts and adventurers can explore this extraordinary site through scuba diving. The underwater ruins, including a 30-meter shipwreck, towering pillars, granite blocks from various temples, sphinxes, and statues, offer a captivating journey into Egypt’s past and a tangible connection to Cleopatra.
With the new Cleopatra movie on the horizon, Antirhodos Island’s submerged palace stands as a silent testament to the grandeur and tragedy of one of history’s most iconic figures. It beckons explorers to dive into its depths, unravel its secrets, and perhaps one day, discover the final resting place of Cleopatra and Mark Antony.
