Located in a small bay, in the eastern part of Alexandria, overlooked by the Montazah Palace, the underwater archaeological sites of Montazah and Maamoura are a testimony to the evident marine activity that took place in the region back in the period between the 1st and 6th centuries A.D.

Taposiris Parva, or the “Small Temple of Osiris” is believed to have stood once on the small island that overlooks the bay from the east. The temple was demolished in the 5th century A.D when Christians decided to destroy pagan temples throughout Alexandria.

The temple was also known for its pagan High Priestess, Hypatia of Alexandria, daughter of Theon the Geometer who was the last head of the Great Alexandria Library before its destruction. This extraordinary historical figure was known to be a talented mathematician, astronomer and philosopher; she shared her knowledge with her followers at the temple and incurred the wrath of the church, which considered her acts as going against Christian beliefs. In March 416 A.D., Hypatia of Alexandria was apprehended and beaten, before being dragged into a church where her abductors scraped her skin off with oyster shells or tiles. She is believed to have been buried in an area known then as Cinaron.

There are no remnants of Taposiris Parva on the island, nor in the waters. The main attraction of the site is a long (approx. 200 m) stone pier dating back to the 1st century. It lies in 3 to 6 metres of water, surrounded by pieces of amphorae and small anchors.

The site of Maamoura is located more to the east of Montazah; there lie the remnants of another stone pier, dating to approximately the same period. The area, some 6 metres deep is also littered with pieces of amphorae and anchors. A few years ago, one could also see bronze naval artifacts.

These 2 sites can be accessed from shore, but you will need to make a somewhat long swim to reach them. Boats are also available for rent, and the staff at the water sports centre located in Montazah (the only CDWS certified diving centre on the North Coast) will be pleased to help you out and guide you through your dive.

Browse through a list of CDWS certified diving centres in Alexandria.


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Tags:White MedAlexandriaDivingArcheological SitesArcheological SitesCultureAdventure

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