Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered the remains of a late Ptolemaic circular public bath and a Roman residential villa with mosaic floors in the Moharam Bek area of central Alexandria. The discovery was made during a rescue excavation conducted by the Supreme Council of Antiquities, as reported by
Daily News Egypt, a partner of TV BRICS.
According to the Egypt Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the site demonstrates continuous settlement across the Ptolemaic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Specialists note that the remains reflect the long-term development of one of the ancient Mediterranean’s key urban centres.
Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Hisham El-Leithy stated that the Tholoi-style bathhouse and Roman villa indicate advanced urban planning and public infrastructure in ancient Alexandria. The complex includes water facilities and a small swimming pool integrated into a functional hydraulic system.
Further analysis identified mosaic floors created using Opus Tessellatum and Opus Sectile techniques – ancient decorative methods in which mosaics were made from small stone or glass tiles, while coloured marble pieces were cut into geometric and ornamental patterns. Experts say these findings reflect the diversity of artistic traditions in Alexandria during the Ptolemaic and Roman eras. Excavations also uncovered marble statues, coins, pottery, oil lamps, and amphora fragments linked to Mediterranean trade activity.
Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy said the discovery contributes to a more detailed understanding of Alexandria’s ancient urban structure and strengthens its archaeological record. Restoration works are underway, with selected artefacts expected to be exhibited at the museum in Alexandria.