The Ministry of Antiquities received four artefacts that were accidently unearthed beneath the American Consulate in Alexandria, including three roman marble columns and an Islamic-era water well holder.

Ali Dahi, the director-general of the ministry’s Archaeological Collection Administration, told Ahram Online that the objects were found in the garden of the American Councillor during routine maintenance work.

The American Consul immediately reported the find to the ministry, who in turn assigned an archaeological committee to determine the authenticity of the objects.

Dahi said that the artefacts are genuine and are now in the possession of the ministry, which referred them to the Kom El-Shokafa archaeological inspectorate for restoration and documentation.

Dahi added that the artefacts are well preserved.