Mythical Egyptian City Resurfaces

The ancient Egyptian City of Heracleion was, as the myth goes, famous for its wealth. It was considered to be the main trading center in Egypt almost 1200 years ago. However, one day-much like the city of Atlantis- it disappeared never to appear again. 

The city probably got its fame in the present day due to how Heracleion was once a prosperous, thriving city before it was swallowed by the sea over a millennium ago. It was outstanding enough to be mentioned by the Greek writer Herodotus. Moreover, this city tells the amazing story of Helen of Troy- believed to be the most beautiful woman on earth at the time – and how they launched over a thousand ships headed to that exact city. Others say that the city was named after Hercules himself, after visiting the city.

The infamous city is said to have been a great port for Egypt at the time, taking control of all the ships coming from Greece. In addition, this mythical city seemed to have the great temple of Amun, where ancient Egyptians were believed to do their sacrifices to the gods. 

Now, 1200 years later, this mythical city reveals itself near the waters of Alexandria in the Mediterranean. Not meant to be discovered, but was actually "stumbled upon" while searching the great depths of the ocean. What was discovered proves how important this city was. Over 60 ships, gold coins made from bronze and stone, a sphinx, large statues and small ones of minor gods, stone inscriptions in both Greek and Egyptian, and anchors for over 700 ships were among the discoveries.

Discoveries also give insight into the life of the Egyptians at the time and how it actually disappeared. It is believed that due to major natural phenomena, namely earthquakes and floods, at the time that the city was swallowed by the sea.