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Recent excavations in Egypt’s western desert have unveiled a remarkably preserved Byzantine city, shedding light on urban life during the fourth century when Egypt was under Byzantine control. This archaeological discovery, located in the Dakhla oasis, includes various residential and religious structures, along with numerous artefacts that offer insight into the daily activities and economic practices of the time.
Discovery of the Byzantine City
The excavation team, led by Mahmoud Massoud, has unearthed a settlement characterised by its intricate layout of north-south thoroughfares intersected by east-west streets. These pathways create open squares and public spaces, indicative of a well-planned urban environment. At the heart of this settlement lies a basilica from the mid-fourth century, which commands a view of the main streets and is flanked by two watchtowers that once safeguarded the outskirts.
Massoud noted the presence of a heavily fortified structure with robust defensive walls, alongside numerous residences featuring reception halls and vaulted ceilings. Among the most significant discoveries is the house of Tisous, a deacon of the church, believed to have functioned as a house of worship before the basilica’s construction.
Artefacts Unearthed
The archaeological team has also uncovered a treasure trove of artefacts, including bread ovens, kitchens, grinding tools, and bronze coins. Some of these coins bear the likenesses of Byzantine emperors and inscriptions in Latin and Christian symbols, reflecting the cultural syncretism of the period. A particularly notable find is a collection of gold coins dating back to the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 AD.
Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities department, revealed that approximately 200 pottery fragments inscribed with commercial transactions and personal correspondence were also discovered. These fragments, known as ostraca, provide a glimpse into the everyday lives of the inhabitants.
Ancient Tombs at Marina el-Alamein
In a separate excavation site at Marina el-Alamein, located roughly 100 kilometres west of Alexandria, archaeologists have uncovered 18 ancient tombs, adding to the site’s growing historical significance. This latest discovery includes rock-cut tombs averaging eight metres in depth and seven limestone-built tombs, bringing the total number of tombs found in the area to 48.
The team, led by Eman Abdel-Khaliq, also found a substantial granite sarcophagus measuring 2.5 metres in length, containing skeletal remains currently under study. Additionally, a plaster sphinx statue and several gold artefacts were discovered, positioned in the mouths of some deceased individuals—an intriguing funerary practice reflective of the beliefs of that era.
Cultural Significance and Future Prospects
The Dakhla oasis is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage status, potentially elevating its international profile. The findings from both sites not only enrich our understanding of Byzantine urbanisation in Egypt but also highlight the region’s historical importance as a cultural crossroads.
Why it Matters
These archaeological discoveries are crucial for understanding the complexities of life in ancient Egypt during the Byzantine era. They not only reveal the architectural and urban planning sophistication of the time but also provide tangible connections to the daily lives of its inhabitants. As excavations continue, they promise to enhance our knowledge of Egypt’s rich history, potentially reshaping narratives about the region’s socio-economic and cultural evolution during a pivotal period.