S5 Ep3: Hand of a Giant: Discoveries from Abu Qir Bay, Egypt

One of the most remarkable maritime sites off the coast of Egypt is revealing monumental sculptures of extraordinary scale—some towering up to 20 metres, including a single hand measuring 40 centimetres across. Professor Lucy Blue speaks with Dr Mohamed Abdel-Maguid, senior archaeologist at the Underwater Antiquities Department of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, about the secrets of western Abu Qir Bay, located 30 kilometres east of Alexandria and west of the drowned ancient city and ports of Thonis-Heracleion. Once a military base, the area first came to light in the 1930s when Prince Omar Toussoun and the director of the Graeco-Roman Museum enlisted the help of local divers. Today, as modern development threatens the site, Mohamed and his team of eight divers are racing against the clock to document newly uncovered remains. Learn how this shallow site, dating between the 7th BC – 5th AD is challenging the team’s surveying and recovering skills. Yet each colossal granite statue, block, and smaller remains they record adds to the story of this once-thriving port and temple complex. Their work sheds new light on Egypt’s maritime past and highlights how the country is safeguarding its unique sunken heritage.