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In a remarkable archaeological breakthrough, researchers have unveiled a well-preserved Byzantine city, dating back to the fourth century, within the harsh terrain of Egypt’s western desert. Located in the Dakhla oasis, this site offers a vivid glimpse into the daily lives, urban planning, and economic activities of a bygone era when Egypt was entrenched in the Byzantine Empire.
Discoveries in the Dakhla Oasis
The excavation revealed an intricate urban landscape, where north-south thoroughfares intersect with east-west streets, creating inviting open squares. Among the most significant structures uncovered is a basilica-style church, which commands attention at the heart of the settlement. Hisham el-Leithy, the secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, emphasised the importance of this find, noting how it sheds light on both architectural prowess and societal organisation at a time when Egypt was a vital centre of Byzantine influence.
Mahmoud Massoud, leading the archaeological mission, described additional features including two watchtowers designed to defend the periphery of the city. The remains of residential buildings, fortified walls, and communal spaces reflect a community that was not only thriving but also strategically fortified.
Life in the Byzantine Era
The richness of daily life in this ancient city is further illuminated by the discovery of various artefacts including bread ovens, kitchens, and stone grinding tools. The remnants of domestic life were complemented by a trove of coins, some inscribed with the likeness of Byzantine emperors, and others bearing Latin phrases and Christian symbols. Among these treasures, a collection of gold coins was traced back to the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 AD.
Significantly, researchers also found approximately 200 pottery fragments known as ostraca. These fragments, once used as a writing medium, contain inscriptions that detail commercial transactions and personal correspondence, providing invaluable insights into the socio-economic fabric of the time.
New Discoveries at Marina el-Alamein
In a separate excavation effort, 18 ancient tombs were discovered at the Marina el-Alamein archaeological site, located about 100 kilometres west of Alexandria. This site has now revealed a total of 48 tombs, including 11 rock-cut graves with depths averaging eight metres, alongside surface tombs constructed of limestone.
Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the chief of this expedition, reported the discovery of a 2.5-metre-long granite sarcophagus containing skeletal remains, which are currently under study. Close to this sarcophagus lay the remnants of a plaster sphinx statue, hinting at the funerary practices observed in the region. Notably, some of the deceased were interred with gold pieces placed in their mouths—a practice known as “the golden tongue,” which reflects ancient beliefs surrounding the afterlife.
The artefacts retrieved from this site include pottery vessels, altars, and amphorae, painting a picture of the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis—a thriving hub from the second century until the fourth century.
The Significance of These Discoveries
The discoveries in both the Dakhla oasis and Marina el-Alamein are monumental, not only for their historical value but also for their potential to reshape our understanding of Byzantine influence in North Africa. The Dakhla oasis, now on UNESCO’s tentative list for world heritage status, stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural advancements of its time, while the tombs at Marina el-Alamein provide a window into the spiritual lives of those who once inhabited these lands.
Why it Matters
These archaeological finds are not merely relics of the past; they are powerful reminders of Egypt’s rich historical tapestry and its significance in the broader narrative of human civilisation. As researchers continue to sift through the remnants of these ancient cities, they unlock stories that resonate through time, offering contemporary society a deeper understanding of cultural heritage, resilience, and the interconnectedness of human experiences across millennia.
