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In a remarkable discovery, archaeologists have unearthed a well-preserved Byzantine city dating back to the fourth century in the Dakhla oasis, located in Egypt’s New Valley governorate. This find not only sheds light on the urban development and daily life during the Byzantine era but also includes a significant architectural layout and various artefacts that depict the economic activities of the time. Additionally, another team has uncovered ancient tombs at Marina el-Alamein, near Alexandria, further enriching Egypt’s archaeological narrative.
Discoveries in the Dakhla Oasis
The archaeological mission, led by Mahmoud Massoud, has revealed extensive remnants of a Byzantine settlement, featuring residential and religious structures, including a basilica-style church. This architectural marvel is situated at the heart of the city, overlooking the main thoroughfares. According to Hisham el-Leithy, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the urban layout consists of a series of intersecting streets that form public squares, indicative of a well-organised community.
Among the notable findings are the remains of two defensive watchtowers, which suggest that the settlement was fortified. Additionally, the discovery included essential daily life artefacts such as bread ovens, kitchens, and stone grinding tools, alongside bronze coins that carry the likenesses of Byzantine emperors and inscriptions of Christian symbols. A particularly interesting find was a collection of gold coins from the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 AD.
Insights into Daily Life
The archaeological team has also identified the house of Tisous, believed to have served as a house church prior to the construction of the basilica. This site has yielded around 200 pottery fragments, known as ostraca, which contain written inscriptions that provide insights into commercial transactions and daily correspondence of the era. Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish antiquities department, highlights the significance of these findings in understanding the socio-economic dynamics of the time.
The Dakhla oasis, which is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage status, offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal period in Egypt’s history, characterised by a blend of cultural influences and economic activities.
Uncovering Ancient Tombs at Marina el-Alamein
In a separate archaeological endeavour, a team has made significant discoveries at the Marina el-Alamein site, approximately 100 kilometres west of Alexandria. This latest excavation has revealed 18 ancient tombs, adding to the already extensive collection at the site, which now totals 48. The newly uncovered tombs include both rock-cut and surface limestone constructions, showcasing the burial practices of the era.
Among the finds is a remarkable granite sarcophagus measuring 2.5 metres in length, which contains skeletal remains currently under study. Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the mission chief, noted the discovery of a plaster sphinx statue near the sarcophagus, further indicating the elaborate funerary customs of the time. Additionally, the presence of gold pieces placed in the mouths of some deceased individuals—a practice referred to as “the golden tongue”—reflects the funerary beliefs prevalent during this period.
The Historical Significance
The Marina el-Alamein site is believed to be the ancient port city of Leukaspis, thriving from the second to the fourth century AD. The archaeological significance of this location extends beyond its tombs; it was once a bustling hub of Greco-Roman trade and culture along the Mediterranean coast.
Why it Matters
These archaeological discoveries are not merely significant for their historical value; they illuminate a critical period in Egypt’s past, showcasing the interplay of cultural, religious, and economic factors during the Byzantine era. As researchers delve deeper into these findings, they enhance our understanding of ancient civilisations and contribute to the ongoing narrative of human history. These insights not only enrich our knowledge of Egypt but also underline the necessity of preserving such sites for future generations, ensuring that the stories of our collective past endure.
