A Breakthrough Year for Underwater Archaeology

Beneath the waves off Egypt’s Mediterranean coast lies a world once thought lost forever; ancient cities, temples and harbor structures that were submerged centuries ago. In 2025, the long-term underwater archaeology project, led by Franck Goddio and supported by the Hilti Foundation, reached several milestones, each one adding new depth to our understanding of ancient Egypt.

By supporting this research project, the Hilti Foundation helps make discoveries possible, expanding our understanding of ancient civilizations and reminding us how much history still lies hidden beneath the surface.

Major discoveries in 2025

One of the year’s most striking discoveries emerged from Alexandria’s Eastern Harbor, where researchers uncovered a well-preserved ancient pleasure barge. More than 35 meters long and found near the sunken Temple of Isis on Antirhodos, the vessel opens a rare window into ritual life and waterborne luxury in early Roman Egypt.

At the same time, discoveries from years of underwater excavations reached a global stage. The newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza now showcases 132 artefacts recovered from the sunken cities of Thonis-Heracleion, Canopus and Alexandria. Among them are three colossal statues. Once buried in the Nile delta mud, they now stand proudly as some of the finest preserved royal images of the Ptolemaic era.

Decades of research also culminated in the reconstruction of the Temple of Isis. Newly published findings trace the sanctuary from its foundation phase in the 3rd century BCE through its later expansions and eventual destruction by an earthquake, offering fresh insight into the study of Cleopatra VII.

Behind these achievements stands not only scientific dedication but also a dependable operational base. For 27 years, the vessel Princess Duda supported the underwater archaeology missions of Franck Goddio’s team. After decades at sea, she underwent a complete refit. Now fully restored, Princess Duda is ready to accompany the archeology team for the next generation of discoveries.

Hilti Foundation

Aside from supporting maritime research via the projects of Franck Goddio, the Hilti Foundation focuses on creating sustainable impact and empowering people for a better future. Their global efforts target developing countries and emerging economies. Together with international partner organizations the Hilti Foundation is dedicated to achieving sustainable and scalable impact. International activities include programs like Music for Social Change, Affordable Housing & Technology or Emergency Relief. Find out more on www.hiltifoundation.org

Image copyrights: Christoph Gerigk © Franck Goddio / Hilti Foundation