Archaeologists have made a significant discovery in Egypt’s western desert, uncovering a remarkably preserved city dating back to the Byzantine era. This ancient site, located in the Dakhla oasis, offers invaluable insights into daily life, urban planning, and economic practices during the fourth century, a period when Egypt was part of the Byzantine Empire.
An Insight into Daily Life
The excavation has revealed residential and religious structures, including a basilica-style church that serves as a focal point of this historical settlement. Hisham el-Leithy, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, highlighted that the urban layout comprises thoroughfares running north-south, intersected by east-west streets that form public squares. This intricate design showcases the sophisticated urban development of the time.
Alongside the basilica, archaeologists discovered the remnants of two watchtowers, indicating the need for security in the settlement. Mahmoud Massoud, who leads the archaeological mission, noted the presence of fortified structures, thick defensive walls, and homes with vaulted ceilings and reception halls. Such findings paint a vivid picture of a thriving community engaged in various economic activities.
Unearthing Cultural Artifacts
Among the most intriguing finds are bread ovens, kitchens, and stone grinding tools that illuminate the culinary practices of the era. Additionally, a range of bronze coins featuring portraits of Byzantine emperors, Latin inscriptions, and Christian symbols has been excavated. Notably, a collection of gold coins dating to the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who governed from 337 to 361 AD, was also unearthed.
Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities department, revealed that around 200 pottery fragments were found, serving as writing material known as ostraca. These inscriptions provide a glimpse into commercial exchanges, correspondence, and other aspects of everyday life, adding a rich layer of context to the archaeological findings.
Additional Discoveries at Marina el-Alamein
In a separate but equally significant find, archaeologists have located 18 ancient tombs at the Marina el-Alamein site, situated approximately 100 kilometres west of Alexandria. This discovery includes 11 rock-cut tombs with depths averaging eight metres, alongside seven limestone-built tombs, increasing the total number of tombs at the site to 48.
The excavation at Marina el-Alamein has yielded pottery vessels, amphorae, altars, and limestone basins, contributing to the understanding of funerary practices in the region. Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the mission chief, reported the discovery of a 2.5-metre-long granite sarcophagus, which contained skeletal remains currently under study. Close to the sarcophagus, remnants of a plaster sphinx statue were also found, suggesting the site’s historical significance.
Intriguingly, four gold pieces were placed in the mouths of some deceased individuals, a practice referred to as “the golden tongue,” which reflects the funerary customs and beliefs prevalent during that time.
The Broader Context
The Dakhla oasis, where the Byzantine city was discovered, is on UNESCO’s tentative list, a precursor to potential inclusion on the World Heritage List. This recognition underscores the archaeological significance of the site and its potential to attract both scholarly interest and tourism.
The Marina el-Alamein site, believed to be the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis, thrived from the second to the fourth century. The findings at both locations not only enhance our understanding of Egypt’s rich historical tapestry but also highlight the region’s role as a cultural crossroads during the Byzantine era.
Why it Matters
The unearthing of these ancient sites is not just a triumph for archaeology but a vital contribution to global heritage. They provide a lens through which we can view the complexities of life in a bygone era, revealing the interplay of culture, economy, and religion. As Egypt continues to unveil its historical treasures, these discoveries foster greater appreciation for the intricate narratives that shape our shared human history, inviting scholars and tourists alike to explore the rich legacies that endure within its sands.
