Lighthouse of Alexandria image found on ancient bronze ring

Archaeologists conducting underwater excavations in Egypt have discovered a unique bronze seal ring engraved with the image of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The artifact was recovered from the submerged royal island of Antirhodos, located within the ancient Portus Magnus district of Alexandria.

The discovery was made by the European Institute of Underwater Archaeology (IEASM), led by Franck Goddio, in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The ring’s engraving depicts a structure that matches historical descriptions and appearances of the lighthouse on second-century AD coins. This marks the first time the lighthouse has been identified on a ring.

Researchers suggest the find may indicate that the palace on Antirhodos served administrative functions, potentially including the management of the lighthouse, well into the second century AD. In addition to the ring, the team recovered ceramic and glass fragments dating between the 4th century BC and the 4th century AD.