Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has unveiled a significant archaeological breakthrough—a temple dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, estimated to have been constructed approximately 2,400 years ago.
This remarkable discovery was made during underwater excavations conducted by a collaborative Egyptian-French archaeological mission consisting of the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the European Institute of Marine Archeology within the sunken city of Thonis Heracleion, situated in Abu Qir Bay near Alexandria.
The head of the European Institute of Marine Archeology, Frank Goddio, revealed that in addition to the temple of Aphrodite, the mission also uncovered the precinct where offerings, vows, and precious items were once stored, situated within the Western Temple of Amun.
Thonis Heracleion holds historical significance as it served as Egypt’s primary port on the Mediterranean coastline before the founding of Alexandria by Alexander the Great in 331 BC.
This new archaeological revelation provides further insight into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, shedding light on the ancient worship of the goddess Aphrodite and the religious practices of the time.
