TRIPOLI, May 5 (Xinhua) -- A Libyan-international archaeological mission announced on Monday the discovery of the remains of an ancient sea lighthouse on the coast of eastern Libya's Tobruk city, according to the official Libyan News Agency.
The lighthouse is believed to date back to the Greek or Roman era, demonstrating the site's strategic importance as an active port during ancient times, said the report.
The discovery includes parts of a circular stone structure and tower foundations, indicating the presence of a high building believed to have been used to guide ships through the sea waters to the shore.
Pottery pieces and small statues were also found at the site, highlighting the extent of commercial and cultural activities in the region and its cultural contact with its Mediterranean surroundings.
The research team confirmed that the discovery could redraw the map of ancient ports in the Mediterranean and contribute to enhancing the historical understanding of Libya's maritime and cultural roles in ancient civilizations.
The team noted that work is still underway to analyze the archaeological finds and that excavations are continuing at the site.
