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Recent archaeological excavations in Egypt’s western desert have unveiled a remarkably preserved city from the Byzantine era, offering invaluable insights into daily life during this historical period. Located in the Dakhla oasis of the New Valley governorate, the site comprises residential and religious buildings, including an impressive basilica, alongside various artefacts that reflect the urban and economic activities of its inhabitants.
A Glimpse into Byzantine Urban Planning
The discovery, as reported by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, has revealed quarters dating back to the fourth century. These residential areas feature a grid layout of north-south thoroughfares intersected by east-west streets, creating open spaces reminiscent of ancient urban designs. Hisham el-Leithy, the secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, highlighted how these findings illustrate the community’s daily life and development during the Byzantine period.
Prominently situated at the heart of the settlement is a basilica from the mid-fourth century, which commands a view over the main thoroughfares. In addition to this architectural marvel, remnants of two watchtowers were found, indicating the need for protection in an era of uncertainty. Mahmoud Massoud, who leads the archaeological mission, noted the presence of robust defensive walls surrounding the site, alongside various domestic structures that included reception halls and vaulted roofs.
Artefacts from Daily Life
Among the artefacts uncovered are bread ovens, kitchens, and stone grinding tools, alongside bronze coins featuring the likenesses of Byzantine emperors. These coins, some inscribed with Latin phrases and Christian symbols, serve as a testament to the blend of cultures that flourished in the region. A notable find was a collection of gold coins from the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled between 337 and 361 CE.
Additionally, Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities department, reported the discovery of approximately 200 pottery fragments, known as ostraca. These fragments, inscribed with various writings, provide a window into the administrative and commercial transactions of the time, further enriching our understanding of Byzantine society.
New Discoveries at Marina el-Alamein
In a separate archaeological endeavour, 18 ancient tombs were excavated at Marina el-Alamein, located roughly 100 kilometres west of Alexandria. This site, previously unearthed in 1986, is believed to be the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis. The recent discoveries include 11 rock-cut tombs, averaging eight metres in depth, and seven surface limestone-built tombs, bringing the total number of tombs found to 48.
Among the remarkable findings is a 2.5-metre granite sarcophagus containing human skeletal remains, now under analysis. Close to this sarcophagus, archaeologists also found the remains of a plaster sphinx statue. Notably, the practice of placing gold pieces known as “the golden tongue” inside the mouths of the deceased was observed, a funerary belief characteristic of that era.
Significance of the Discoveries
The archaeological efforts in both Dakhla and Marina el-Alamein not only enhance our understanding of Egypt’s historical landscape but also highlight the significance of Byzantine influence in the region. The Dakhla oasis, currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for world heritage status, may soon be recognised for its cultural and historical importance.
Why it Matters
These discoveries provide crucial insights into the Byzantine period, revealing the complexities of urban life and the socio-economic structures that prevailed. As Egypt continues to unearth its rich past, these findings not only contribute to historical scholarship but also reinforce the country’s position as a vital centre of ancient civilisations, attracting further interest in its archaeological treasures. As such, they underscore the importance of preserving and studying these sites for future generations.