Cleopatra is still forever the epitome of a woman’s strength and beauty. Being the Pharaoh of Egypt and ruling over Alexandria, history, even literature (as frequently associated to Shakespearean plays) has noted her for the aspects that women today are definitely realizing: treated as men’s equal. However it is likely that the fabled queen is indeed not just fiction but reality as a monument was lifted from Cleopatra’s underwater city. 

Last Thursday, December 17, a group of archeologist hoisted a 9 ton temple pylon from a said to be palace complex of Cleopatra found before it was submerged in the harbor brought about by an earthquake during the fourth century. 

The monument was recovered by divers and underwater archeologist using giant cranes and ropes. It was said to weigh 9 ton and measures 7.4 feet which made it need the heavy artillery to hoist it up. It was covered in seaweed and muck. The said activity was led by top archeologist Zahi Hawaas.

The pylon monument, which was first placed at the entrance to Isis’ temple, is planned by Egypt to be the centerpiece to an underwater museum to showcase the sunken city. It was part of the palace which the Ptolemaic dynasty ruled Egypt. Historic tenant background check also pictures it as where Cleopatra, during the first century, became lovers with Marc Antony before they both committed suicide after they were defeated by Augustus Caesar. The temple of Isis was then the haven for Cleopatra, being a devoted follower of the said goddess. 

Isis was said to be the Egyptian goddess of fertility and magic. Her monument was estimated to be at least 2,050 years old although there archeologist who helped in claiming it believed this was much older. 

Cleopatra’s palace and other buildings may be lying underwater—the Mediterranean to be exact—but the historians and archeologist have scavenged for the second largest city since 1994. They have explored (a sort of tenant background check) to relive and bear proof of a great legacy. There are still artifacts lying underneath and although the said underwater museum is still a plan, the confidence that Cleopatra’s legacy will still be shared more to the world especially with women who are doing their share in showing equality to the world.