According to the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, orichalcum is a precious metal that ranks just below gold, and the legendary continent of Atlantis was said to possess this metal in large quantities.
Plato described orichalcum as having a fiery red color and frequently mentioned this precious metal while recounting the story of the lost continent of Atlantis, as noted in the Encyclopedia of World History.
A bar of precious metal. (Photo: INDY 100).
The Greek philosopher asserted that orichalcum was mined in various locations across the continent of Atlantis, and that constructions, including the Temple of Poseidon and the royal palace, were adorned with orichalcum, making the architecture of Atlantis shine with a fiery red hue.
Based on Plato’s captivating story, many hope that finding orichalcum could provide clues leading to the long-lost land.
Possibility of Finding Orichalcum
In December 2014, it seemed that this hypothesis was validated. A diver named Francesco Cassarino discovered 40 mysterious metal bars inside a 2,600-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Sicily.
The metal bars found off the coast of the island of Sicily. (Photo: INDY 100).
Following this discovery, numerous research teams arrived to survey the seabed in search of additional clues. By February 2016, they had found 47 mysterious metal bars, located a few dozen meters from the initial discovery site.
According to a report published in the journal Archaeological Science in 2021, testing results indicated that these bars were made from an alloy primarily consisting of copper and zinc, cast in shapes resembling cigars or bars similar to gold ingots.
The alloy has a golden hue with a reddish tint, as described by Plato, and is therefore likely to be the legendary orichalcum.
Subsequent analyses revealed that the ancient alloy contained about 80% copper and 20% zinc, with small amounts of lead and other metals.
The value of these metal bars lies in their malleability, tarnish resistance, high durability (superior to copper), and gold-like appearance.
Orichalcum was the most common metal used for minting ancient Roman coins.
Could Orichalcum Lead to the Discovery of Atlantis?
So, could the discovery of orichalcum bars off the coast of Sicily help modern archaeologists locate the remnants of the continent of Atlantis?
As of now, the answer remains no.
