More than two thousand years after it guided sailors into the bustling harbor of Alexandria, the iconic Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos, has begun to re-emerge from the Mediterranean Sea. In a groundbreaking archaeological effort, a team has successfully recovered 22 massive stone blocks from its underwater ruins. This marks a significant advancement in the restoration of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Under the direction of French archaeologist and architect Isabelle Hairy from the Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), the recovery included substantial architectural pieces such as lintels and base slabs, some weighing between 70 and 80 tonnes. Notably, the team also discovered a previously unknown pylon featuring an Egyptian-style doorway, constructed using Hellenistic techniques. This find may deepen our understanding of the blend of Greek and Egyptian architectural styles during the Ptolemaic period.

Isabelle Hairy remarked on the extraordinary nature of the operation, emphasizing that each block represents a vital piece of a monumental puzzle. This recovery is part of the “PHAROS” project, an ambitious international initiative that merges underwater archaeology with advanced technology. Collaborating with Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and supported by La Fondation Dassault Systèmes, the project aims to digitally reconstruct the lighthouse.

Over the past decade, over 100 blocks have been scanned underwater. The ultimate objective is to create a detailed digital twin of the lighthouse, which will facilitate research into its construction and eventual collapse. This model will also provide virtual access to the majestic structure that once stood 100 meters tall over Alexandria’s coastline.

Originally built in the 3rd century BC by Ptolemy I Soter, the lighthouse was a crucial maritime landmark until damage from earthquakes in the 14th century led to its decline. The PHAROS project assembles a diverse team to collate historical records, offering a comprehensive view of the lighthouse throughout history. The lifting of these blocks is the culmination of 30 years of research, beginning with the discovery of the ruins in 1995 by archaeologist Jean-Yves Empereur.

With modern technology enabling a connection between past and present, these stones are paving the way for a digital revival of the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Each retrieved block brings us closer to realizing the dream of virtually walking through this historical marvel once again.