Kategorie: News
Divers Recover a Signet Ring Off the Coast of Egypt Featuring the Pharos, One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
Off the coast of Alexandria, archaeologists have recovered a bronze signet ring engraved with the Lighthouse of Pharos, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the discovery in early October 2026. According to the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM), it is the first known signet ring featuring this motif.
The ring was found among the ruins of a palace on the now-submerged island of Antirhodos. It was part of the royal quarter in the ancient harbor of Portus Magnus. The palace was in use during the Ptolemaic period, roughly between 304 and 30 B.C. The excavation is being led by Franck Goddio through the IEASM in collaboration with the Egyptian Underwater Archaeology Institute, with support from the Hilti Foundation.
In addition to the ring, the divers recovered everyday tableware. According to Smithsonian Magazine, the site has also yielded tableware, amphorae, oil lamps, and glass fragments dating from the 4th century B.C. to the 4th century A.D. Goddio calls the ring “even more significant” because it was found in the legendary palace of Antirhodos.
The engraving is somewhat worn. According to the ministry, it resembles depictions of the lighthouse on coins from the 2nd century A.D. According to archaeologist Isabelle Hairy, three tiers can be discerned on these coins: a square base, an octagonal middle section, and a round cap. Several experts believe they can make out a wisp of smoke above the lamp at the top. A signet ring was used to make impressions in clay or wax.
The IEASM speculates that the palace was not only a residence but also served administrative functions, including the management of the lighthouse. The signet ring supports this speculation.
No information is currently available regarding the ring’s size, precise dating, or the identity of its wearer. Archaeologist Hector Williams of the University of British Columbia points out that the full significance remains unclear without precise find data and a datable context.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria
The Pharos was built around 280 B.C. on the island of the same name off the coast of Alexandria and stood more than 100 meters tall. Earthquakes and erosion gradually destroyed it, and its remains sank into the sea. In 1477, the fortress of the Mamluk sultan Qait Bay was built on the site of the ruins. To this day, the tower’s exact appearance is known only from descriptions and depictions on coins. The ring is therefore another, albeit small, artifact from this era.
Further information:
The Art Newspaper: Signet ring depicting lighthouse of Alexandria discovered in underwater excavation (9. Oktober 2026)
Live Science: Bronze ring with Lighthouse of Alexandria engraving discovered at palace on submerged island in Egypt
Smithsonian Magazine: This One-of-a-Kind Bronze Ring Offers a Tantalizing Glimpse at the Lighthouse of Alexandria