Experts believe soil liquefaction and a gradual rise in sea level eventually led to the abandonment of Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus. They likely had submerged by the latter half of the 8th century AD, and the exact locations of the cities were unknown until Goddio's discoveries.

What happened to Canopus?

According to the poet Nicander (2nd century BC), Menelaus' helmsman, Canopus, died here, bitten by a viper on the sands of Thonis. The city located close by was named after this unfortunate sailor: Canopus.

Why is Egypt underwater?

Egyptian and Greek influences

A series of earthquakes resulted in the city gradually falling into the sea, until it was completely underwater about 1,000 years ago. The city flourished at a time when many Greeks were coming to Egypt and bringing their cultural traditions with them.