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Recent excavations in Egypt’s western desert have unveiled a remarkably preserved Byzantine city, offering a fascinating glimpse into life during the fourth century when Egypt was part of the Byzantine Empire. The discoveries, made in the Dakhla oasis, include residential and religious structures, along with a wealth of artefacts that shed light on urban development and daily activities of the time.
Insights from the Byzantine City
Archaeologists have unearthed a network of residential quarters that reveal a sophisticated urban layout. Streets running north to south intersect with east-west thoroughfares, creating open squares and communal spaces, according to Hisham el-Leithy, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. At the heart of this settlement lies a basilica-style church dating back to the mid-fourth century, strategically positioned to oversee the main thoroughfares. Additionally, the remains of two watchtowers have been discovered, suggesting that this city was fortified to protect against potential threats.
The excavation also revealed a heavily walled structure and numerous houses featuring reception halls and vaulted ceilings. Among the notable finds is the house of Tisous, a church deacon, believed to have functioned as a house church prior to the construction of the basilica. Archaeologists have also uncovered bread ovens, kitchens, and grinding tools, along with bronze coins that depict Byzantine emperors, further illustrating the economic activities of the period.
Significant Artefacts and Inscriptions
A particularly noteworthy aspect of this discovery is the collection of approximately 200 pottery fragments, known as ostraca, which served as writing material. These fragments contain inscriptions that provide invaluable insights into commercial transactions and everyday correspondence. Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities department, emphasised the importance of these artefacts in understanding the societal dynamics of Byzantine Egypt.
In a separate excavation near Alexandria at Marina el-Alamein, archaeologists have uncovered 18 ancient tombs, adding to the archaeological richness of the area. This site, approximately 100 kilometres west of Alexandria, has seen continuous exploration since its initial discovery in 1986, believed to be the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis. The latest findings include 11 rock-cut tombs and seven limestone-built tombs, increasing the total count at the site to 48.
Discoveries at Marina el-Alamein
The Marina el-Alamein site has produced a wealth of artefacts, including pottery vessels, amphorae, and lamps, as well as a striking 2.5-metre-long granite sarcophagus containing human remains that are currently under analysis. Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the mission chief, noted the discovery of a plaster sphinx statue near the sarcophagus, alongside the placement of gold pieces in the mouths of some deceased individuals, a practice linked to the funerary beliefs of the time.
A Step Towards Heritage Recognition
The Dakhla oasis, where the Byzantine city is located, is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage status. This recognition could bolster international interest in the area, attracting tourism and funding for further archaeological research. The well-preserved state of the city not only highlights the architectural and cultural advancements of the Byzantine era but also serves as a testament to Egypt’s rich historical tapestry.
Why it Matters
The discoveries in both the Dakhla oasis and Marina el-Alamein are not merely archaeological triumphs; they are vital pieces of the historical puzzle that illustrate Egypt’s complex past. By revealing the intricacies of urban life, religious practices, and economic activities during the Byzantine period, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the cultural interactions that have shaped Egypt over centuries. As further studies unfold, they hold the potential to redefine narratives surrounding ancient civilisations and their legacies in the region.
