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Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery in Egypt’s western desert, unveiling a well-preserved Byzantine city dating back to the fourth century. This archaeological find, located in the Dakhla oasis, reveals intricate details of daily life and urban planning during a time when Egypt was under Byzantine influence. Alongside this significant site, researchers have also identified a series of ancient tombs at Marina el-Alamein, near Alexandria, further enriching our understanding of Egypt’s historical tapestry.
A Glimpse into Byzantine Urban Life
The newly discovered quarters in the Dakhla oasis feature residences and religious edifices, notably a basilica-style church that dominates the settlement’s layout. Hisham el-Leithy, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the city’s design includes north-south thoroughfares intersected by east-west streets, which together form public squares and communal spaces that were essential for urban life.
Mahmoud Massoud, head of the archaeological mission, reported that at the heart of the settlement stands a basilica from the mid-fourth century, flanked by remnants of two watchtowers, indicative of the city’s need for protection. This oasis, part of Egypt’s New Valley governorate, is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for world heritage status, marking it as a site of exceptional cultural significance.
Treasures Unearthed: Daily Life and Economic Activities
Among the artifacts discovered are bread ovens, kitchens, and stone grinding tools, which provide insight into the daily activities of the city’s inhabitants. A particularly notable find is the house of Tisous, a church deacon, believed to have functioned as a house church prior to the construction of the basilica. Additionally, archaeologists unearthed bronze coins depicting Byzantine emperors, along with gold coins from the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 AD.
Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Department, highlighted the discovery of around 200 pottery fragments, known as ostraca, which bear inscriptions related to commercial transactions and everyday correspondence. These findings paint an intricate picture of the economic and social dynamics that flourished in this ancient city.
Discoveries at Marina el-Alamein: Tombs and Historical Context
In a separate yet equally important excavation, archaeologists have revealed 18 ancient tombs at the Marina el-Alamein site, situated 100 kilometres west of Alexandria. This site has now yielded a total of 48 tombs, comprising both rock-cut and surface limestone-built structures. Among the artifacts found were pottery vessels, amphorae, and even a 2.5-metre-long granite sarcophagus with skeletal remains that are currently under study.
Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the mission chief, remarked on the unique funerary practices evidenced by the discovery of four gold pieces placed within the mouths of some deceased individuals, a tradition believed to be linked to ancient burial rites. The Marina el-Alamein site is thought to be the remains of the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis, which thrived from the second to the fourth century, providing a vital connection to the Mediterranean trade routes.
A Legacy of Archaeological Riches
As these significant sites are uncovered, they not only enrich our understanding of Egypt’s Byzantine era but also highlight the complexity of life in ancient urban centres. The architectural remains, along with the myriad artifacts, allow historians and archaeologists to reconstruct the social, economic, and religious lives of those who inhabited these cities.
Why it Matters
The unearthing of these Byzantine sites offers invaluable insights into a pivotal period of Egyptian history, showcasing the cultural and architectural achievements of the time. As Egypt continues to unveil its ancient past, these discoveries not only enhance our understanding of historical narratives but also serve to foster a greater appreciation for the rich tapestry of human civilization. Such findings can inspire future generations to engage with and preserve the cultural heritage of Egypt, ensuring that the stories of those who lived millennia ago are not forgotten.