Archaeologists Discover ‘Geometric Miracle’ Tunnel in Search for Cleopatra’s Tomb

A team of researchers searching for the tomb of Cleopatra recently discovered an extraordinary tunnel near Taposiris Magna on Egypt’s coast, now hailed as a “geometric miracle.” Led by Kathleen Martinez from the University of Santo Domingo, the team found this tunnel under a temple.

The tunnel, measuring two meters in height and extending for 1,305 meters through sandstone, is reminiscent of the ancient Tunnel of Eupalinos on Samos, Greece, known for its exceptional engineering. While it’s not an exact copy, the Taposiris Magna tunnel is a remarkable engineering achievement in its own right.

Parts of this tunnel are underwater, similar to the Eupalinos Tunnel, yet its original purpose is still unclear. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities recognizes its structural resemblance to the Greek tunnel but hasn’t yet determined its function.

Martinez, who has been on the hunt for Cleopatra VII’s tomb since 2004, believes this tunnel could be a significant lead. The temple at Taposiris Magna, established around 280 BCE, was dedicated to the deities Osiris and Isis, closely associated with Cleopatra. Various artifacts, including coins and figurines suggestive of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, have been found in the temple, indicating they might be entombed in the vicinity.

The researchers’ next step is to explore the Mediterranean Sea area, as earthquakes between 320 and 1303 CE caused parts of the temple to submerge.

Previous digs have revealed tunnels connecting Lake Mariout to the Mediterranean, raising the possibility that Cleopatra’s tomb could be located within this network. Whether the tomb is found or not, the ongoing excavation is providing valuable insights into the ancient city’s history.

The tunnel has already yielded various artifacts, such as pottery fragments and a limestone block. While the primary objective is to find Cleopatra’s tomb, the excavation is also illuminating the historical importance of Taposiris Magna.