I couldn’t resist posting these photos. If you are interested in the underwater archaeology being done off the coast of Alexandria check this book out; Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt. It’s from National Geographic, written by Zahi Hawass and Franck Goddio.
“The place was like a temple of luxury, the likes of which would be difficult to build even in a more corrupt period; the panelled vaults were laden with riches; thick strips of gold hid the wood pieces…The marble was whole, and made the residence shine…Everywhere in the palace was a profusion of onyx on which people walked.”
–Lucan, Pharsalia (circa a.d. 64)
So where is it now?
Most likely…under the sea.

Rob Cain has traveled extensively through Europe, Italy, and Egypt. He was formerly on active duty with the United States Army. He is a fan of history, and enjoys reading books on the history of Rome. He currently has a podcast presentation on itunes and hipcast. The blog is for the free and open discussion of Ancient Rome based on Mr. Cain's observations noted in his podcast. Most episodes start out with an original dramatic narration written by Mr. Cain. In the podcasts he will include his own unique commentary, and interviews with subject matter experts. Comments are welcome and will be highlighted on the show.
Episode 10, “Nothing New Under the Sun. Get Over it”, features the book, “The Ancient Guide to Modern Life” written by author, comedian, and TV commentator Natalie Haynes.” Whether political, cultural, or social, there are endless parallels between the ancient and modern worlds. Whether it's the murder of Caesar or the political assassination of Thatcher; the narrative arc of the hit HBO series, The Wire, or that of Oedipus; the popular enthusiasm for the Emperor Titus or President Obama – over and over again we can be seen to be living very much like people did 2,000 or more years ago. It's time for us to re-examine the past. Our lives are infinitely richer if we take the time to look at what the Greeks and Romans have given us in politics and law, religion and philosophy and education, and to learn how people really lived in Athens, Rome, Sparta and Alexandria.
This is a book with a serious point to make but the author isn't just a classicist but a comedian and broadcaster who has made television and radio documentaries about humor, education and Dorothy Parker. This is a book for us all, not for an elite.
