22 massive blocks of the Lighthouse of Alexandria raised for digital reconstruction

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Key facts

• The Lighthouse of Alexandria (the Pharos) was constructed in the early 3rd century BC under Ptolemy I and completed under Ptolemy II; architect was Sostratus of Cnidus.
• Structure stood over 100 meters (300+ feet) tall with a square base, octagonal middle section, and cylindrical upper tower topped by a fire.
• It stood for more than 1,600 years before being destroyed by a series of earthquakes between approximately 900 AD and 1303 AD; remnants sat underwater for roughly 700 years.
• The Pharos project, run by France's National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) with Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, recovered 22 blocks weighing 70–80 tons each, including door lintels, thresholds, and foundation slabs.
• Lead archaeologist and architect is Isabelle Harry (France).
• A previously unknown element was discovered: a pylon—an Egyptian-style doorway built using Greek construction techniques, blending both civilizations.
• Goal is a "digital twin" — a full virtual reconstruction — rather than a physical rebuild.
• Over 100 blocks have been scanned underwater over the past decade, with approximately 5,000 individual pieces mapped to date.
• Many blocks are returned to the seabed after scanning because the underwater environment preserves the stone better than open air.
• Project lead stated the work is "generations from completion."

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