Rare Roman-Era Houseboat Discovered Off Alexandria's Coast

A rare ancient houseboat has been discovered off the coast of Alexandria, Egypt. The find, made by the Institut Européen d'Archéologie Sous-Marine (IEASM), reveals a well-preserved vessel from the early Roman period. The vessel was located just seven metres below the water’s surface near Antirhodos island. This small island once formed part of Cleopatra’s royal palace district in Alexandria. Archaeologists identified the ship as a thalamagos—a type of houseboat never seen before.

Greek graffiti found on the hull dates the vessel to the first half of the first century AD. Despite its age, the structure remains in excellent condition. Following UNESCO’s guidelines, the boat will stay on the seabed rather than being raised.

The discovery provides a rare glimpse into maritime life during Cleopatra’s era. As the first known thalamagos ever found, it offers new insights into ancient Egyptian and Roman seafaring. Researchers will continue studying the vessel in its underwater location.