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Floods in Libya Reveal Hidden Treasures of Ancient Cyrene

Recent floods in Libya revealed hidden wonders of the ancient city of Cyrene, including Roman water channels, unknown buildings, and a marble statue. But amidst the excitement lies the challenge of preserving these unearthed treasures. Explore the fascinating discoveries and ongoing efforts to safeguard Cyrene's legacy.

By Nick Nutter on 2024-02-17 | Last Updated 2024-02-17 | Titbits and News from the Mare Nostrum

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Floodwaters at Cyrene

The floods that swept through Libya in September 2023 brought devastation and tragedy. The torrential waters, which have claimed the lives of 4,540 people, have caused immense damage and loss. They also presented an unexpected gift: the unveiling of previously hidden archaeological structures in the ancient city of Cyrene, near Derna. Centuries of accumulated earth and debris were washed away, revealing secrets that had slumbered beneath the surface for millennia.

When was Cyrene founded?

Temple of Zeus, Cyrene

Cyrene, founded by Greek settlers in 631 BC, flourished for centuries as a center of agriculture, trade, and culture. It became a Roman city in 74 BC and remained a vital hub until its decline following a major earthquake in 365 AD. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its historical significance.

Where is Cyrene?

The site of ancient Cyrene is partly occupied by the modern village of Shahhat in al-Jabal al-Akhdar, eight miles southwest of Marsa Susah. Three main areas of the city have been excavated: the fountain and sanctuary of Apollo, where the Venus of Cyrene and a colossal statue of Apollo were found; the upper city, site of a forum and basilica modelled on the Kaisareion of Alexandria, and a large 2nd-century house with fine mosaics; and the centre of the Roman town, in which stands a huge Doric column marking the site of the temple of Zeus, a gigantic Doric building of the late 6th century BC.

What was revealed by the floodwaters?

General view of Cyrene

The floodwaters, though destructive, acted as a powerful excavator, exposing structures that had long been forgotten. Among the discoveries were:
- A network of Roman-era water channels: Believed to be part of the city's sophisticated water management system, these channels offer insights into the engineering prowess of the Roman era.
- Foundations of unknown buildings: These hidden structures hint at the vastness of Cyrene, suggesting unexplored areas with the potential for further discoveries.
- A marble statue: Unearthed at the Temple of Demeter, this statue adds to the artistic legacy of the city and provides valuable clues about its cultural and religious practices.
While these discoveries are thrilling, the floods also caused damage. The rushing water eroded ancient structures, weakened foundations, and deposited mud and debris in sensitive areas. Urgent preservation efforts are now underway to stabilize the exposed structures and prevent further damage.

Protective measures

Archaeologists and officials face a crucial challenge: balancing the excitement of new discoveries with the need to protect existing ones. Careful documentation, analysis, and conservation measures are essential to ensure that the legacy of Cyrene is not only unearthed but also preserved for future generations.

The story of Cyrene's rediscovery following the floods serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature, both its destructive and revelatory forces. It highlights the importance of archaeological research and preservation, underscoring the need to protect our historical treasures for future generations to learn from and appreciate.