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Egypt
The Lost City of Heracleion
Photo by Diego Delso https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herculaneum
Where is it?
The lost city of Heracleion is located off the coast of Abu Qir Bay, near the Nile Delta in northern Egypt, approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the modern city of Alexandria. It lies submerged beneath the Mediterranean Sea, just a few meters below the surface. Heracleion was a bustling port city in ancient times, which later sank into the sea due to a combination of natural disasters.
What is it?
Heracleion, also known as Thonis in ancient Egyptian texts, was a prosperous city and an important trade hub in the 1st millennium BCE. It served as a gateway for goods entering Egypt and played a vital role in the region’s economy, particularly as a port for trade between Egypt, Greece, and other Mediterranean cultures. The city was dedicated to the god Heracles (Hercules), from whom it took its name.
Key features of Heracleion include:
Submerged City: Heracleion was lost to history until it was rediscovered in 2000 by French underwater archaeologist Franck Goddio. The city had been submerged for over 1,200 years. Archaeologists believe that the city sank due to a combination of earthquakes, flooding, and soil liquefaction, which caused parts of the coastline to sink into the sea.
Major Trading Hub: During its peak, Heracleion was a thriving commercial center, known for its grand temples, warehouses, and docks. It was a key city for both Egyptian and Greek traders, with evidence of large-scale international commerce, including gold, precious metals, spices, and luxury goods. The city also had cultural significance, with notable temples dedicated to Egyptian gods, especially Amun and Heracles.
Archaeological Discoveries: Underwater excavations have uncovered remarkable finds, including large stone statues, temple ruins, columns, treasure such as coins, and inscriptions that have helped scholars better understand the city’s history. Notably, a monumental statue of Pharaoh Amenemhat III was found, as well as large bronze weights that show the city’s trade significance. The discovery of ships, ceramics, and papyri also suggests how the city was an international crossroads.
The God of Heracles: Heracleion was primarily dedicated to the Greek hero Heracles, which is why the city was named after him. Archaeological sites have revealed numerous artifacts depicting the god and his mythology. The connection between Greek culture and Egypt was strong in Heracleion, reflected in the blend of Greek and Egyptian architectural styles and religious practices.
Mystery and Loss: Heracleion’s disappearance from history is a subject of mystery. The city was mentioned in ancient texts, but it was believed to have vanished long before it was rediscovered. For centuries, the city was thought to be nothing more than myth, until its underwater ruins were uncovered.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Access: While the city of Heracleion is submerged, it is possible to visit the general region of Abu Qir Bay near Alexandria and take part in diving tours or underwater archaeology tours to view the remnants of the city from a distance.
Optimal Diving Conditions (April to October): The best time for diving and underwater exploration in the region is during the warmer months, from April to October, when the Mediterranean Sea is calmer, and visibility is clearer. This allows divers to better explore the submerged ruins.
Winter Season: Although the winter months (November to March) are cooler, diving conditions may be less favorable due to rougher seas and reduced visibility, making it harder to view the submerged city.
Tips for the Trip
Underwater Exploration: The remains of Heracleion are submerged at varying depths, and scuba diving is the primary way to see the ruins up close. For non-divers, there are boat tours and virtual tours available that provide an overview of the site and its archaeological discoveries.
Guided Tours: Because the site is still an active archaeological zone, visiting it typically requires a guided tour through specialized agencies or institutions involved in underwater archaeology. Make sure to book these in advance if you're looking to explore or dive into the submerged city.
Respect for Preservation: As a significant archaeological site, Heracleion is protected by various conservation laws. Visitors, especially divers, should be mindful of preserving the underwater ruins and artifacts by not touching or disturbing the ancient remains.
Learn About the History: Visitors interested in the history of Heracleion should visit museums like the Alexandria National Museum or the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where many artifacts from the city are displayed, including statues, coins, and items recovered from the site.
The White Desert
Where is it?
The White Desert, also known as the White Desert of Egypt or Sahara el Beyda, is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles) southwest of Cairo and close to the border with Libya. It is part of the larger Farafra Depression, a natural basin within the desert. The White Desert stretches across an area of about 3,000 square kilometers (1,160 square miles) and is situated within the Egyptian Western Desert.
What is it?
The White Desert is a striking natural landscape known for its stunning white limestone formations, which give the area its unique appearance. The desert is a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the desert environment. Unlike other desert regions, which may feature vast stretches of sand dunes, the White Desert is characterized by its chalky white surface, shaped by wind and water erosion into various surreal formations resembling natural sculptures.
Key features of the White Desert include:
White Limestone Formations: The landscape of the White Desert is dominated by chalky rock formations that have been carved over millennia by the effects of wind and sand. These formations take on many unique shapes, such as pillars, mushrooms, cones, and even animal-like figures. The contrast between the white rocks and the surrounding golden sands creates a stunning visual effect.
Farafra Oasis: The White Desert is part of the Farafra Oasis, one of the many oases in Egypt’s Western Desert. The oasis provides a water source and fertile land, making it a small haven of green amidst the barren desert. Visitors can explore the oasis and learn about its role in the local ecosystem and human settlements.
Unique Desert Landscape: The desert features a combination of vast flat plains, sand dunes, and rocky outcrops, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The region’s white rocks have a stark and breathtaking beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the desert light changes the colors of the formations.
Wildlife: Despite its harsh environment, the White Desert and surrounding areas are home to a range of desert-adapted flora and fauna. Animals like foxes, jackals, and gerbils can be found, and migratory birds often stop by the desert in certain seasons. Though the environment is challenging, these species have adapted to survive in the arid climate.
Popular for Camping and Exploration: The White Desert is a popular destination for desert safaris, camping, and exploration. Many visitors come to experience the tranquility of the desert, sleep under the stars, and marvel at the unusual formations. Local tour companies often offer guided trips, including jeep rides, camel treks, and overnight camping experiences in the desert.
Best Time to Visit
Winter Season (October to March): The best time to visit the White Desert is during the cooler months from October to March, when temperatures are more manageable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day. Nights can get cold, especially in the desert, so visitors should be prepared with appropriate clothing.
Summer (April to September): The summer months in the White Desert can be extremely hot, with temperatures regularly reaching 40°C (104°F) or higher. For those not accustomed to high heat, it’s advisable to avoid the summer months for desert exploration.
Tips for the Trip
Guided Tours: The White Desert is a remote area, so it is highly recommended to visit the region with a local guide or a tour operator. Guided tours can help ensure safety, provide information about the desert’s unique geology, and assist with navigating the remote terrain.
Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be very dry, so it’s important to bring plenty of water and ensure you stay hydrated throughout your trip. Sunscreen and protective clothing are also essential to shield yourself from the sun.
Bring a Camera: The White Desert offers countless opportunities for breathtaking photographs, from the surreal rock formations to the vibrant desert sunsets. It’s a photographer’s paradise, so make sure to bring a camera to capture the unique beauty of the landscape.
Prepare for Camping: If you plan to camp in the White Desert, make sure to bring all necessary equipment, such as tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear, as facilities in the desert are minimal. It’s also essential to have a warm jacket for the chilly desert nights.
Respect the Environment: As with all desert environments, it is important to respect the delicate ecosystem of the White Desert. Avoid disturbing wildlife and be mindful of leaving no trace, especially during camping trips.