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In a significant archaeological breakthrough, experts have unveiled a remarkably preserved Byzantine city dating back to the fourth century in Egypt’s western desert. Located within the Dakhla oasis in the New Valley governorate, the site offers valuable insights into the daily lives, urban planning, and economic activities of a society that flourished during the Byzantine Empire. Alongside this discovery, a separate excavation near Alexandria has revealed ancient tombs, further enriching our understanding of Egypt’s rich historical landscape.
A Window into Byzantine Life
The newly discovered city features a variety of structures, including residential areas and religious edifices, among which stands a basilica-style church that is believed to have served as a focal point for the community. Hisham el-Leithy, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, remarked that the layout of the city comprises north-south thoroughfares intersected by east-west streets, creating open public spaces that reflect the urban development of the period.
Mahmoud Massoud, head of the archaeological mission, detailed the fortifications found in the area, which include a heavily fortified structure with thick walls and numerous houses containing reception halls and vaulted ceilings. The basilica, dating to the mid-fourth century, is positioned prominently at the centre of the settlement, overlooking its main thoroughfares. Furthermore, two ancient watchtowers were discovered, presumably built to protect the settlement’s periphery.
Unearthing Daily Life
Among the significant artefacts uncovered are bread ovens, kitchens, stone grinding tools, and bronze coins adorned with images of Byzantine emperors, along with inscriptions in Latin and Christian symbols. Notably, a collection of gold coins was dated to the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 AD. This discovery provides a deeper understanding of the economic interactions and currency used during this historical period.
Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities department, highlighted the finding of approximately 200 pottery fragments known as ostraca. These inscriptions are believed to document commercial transactions and correspondence, offering intriguing glimpses into the everyday life of the city’s inhabitants.
Insights from Marina el-Alamein
In a separate archaeological initiative approximately 100 kilometres west of Alexandria, researchers have also uncovered 18 ancient tombs at the Marina el-Alamein site. This discovery includes a mix of rock-cut and limestone-built tombs, with significant artefacts such as pottery vessels, lamps, and altars found in situ. The total number of tombs identified at this location has now reached 48.
Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the mission chief, reported the discovery of a 2.5-metre-long granite sarcophagus containing skeletal remains, which are currently under analysis. Nearby, the remains of a plaster sphinx statue were found, along with four gold pieces positioned in the mouths of some of the deceased—a practice believed to be linked to ancient funerary customs.
The Marina el-Alamein site, thought to be the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis, dates back to the second century and continued to thrive until the fourth century, further underscoring the area’s historical significance.
Why it Matters
These archaeological discoveries not only enhance our understanding of Byzantine life but also contribute to the broader narrative of Egypt’s historical and cultural evolution. As the country continues to unearth its rich heritage, such findings promise to illuminate the complexities of social, economic, and religious life in ancient times, fostering a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted history that shapes modern Egypt. The potential for these sites to attract global interest could also significantly bolster Egypt’s tourism sector, making them pivotal in the ongoing dialogue about heritage preservation and cultural identity.