Recent archaeological excavations in Egypt’s western desert have unveiled a remarkable Byzantine-era city, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and urban development of a society that thrived during the fourth century. This significant discovery, alongside the unearthing of ancient tombs near Alexandria, adds a vibrant chapter to Egypt’s rich historical narrative.
Discovery of a Byzantine City
Located in the Dakhla oasis within the New Valley governorate, the well-preserved remnants of this ancient city include residential quarters and a basilica-style church that dates back to the mid-fourth century. The excavation team, led by esteemed archaeologist Mahmoud Massoud, has revealed an intricate layout featuring north-south thoroughfares intersected by east-west streets, creating open squares and communal spaces that highlight the urban planning of the time.
The archaeological findings are not just limited to the architectural layout. Among the artefacts uncovered are coins, pottery shards, and various tools that provide insight into the economic activities and daily life of the inhabitants. Massoud has noted the presence of two watchtowers, which served as sentinels to protect the settlement, further emphasizing its strategic significance during the Byzantine period.
Insights into Daily Life
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has highlighted that the discoveries extend our understanding of life during Egypt’s Byzantine era. Noteworthy findings include the house of Tisous, a deacon, which likely functioned as a house church before the establishment of the basilica. Additionally, the site has yielded bread ovens, kitchens, and stone grinding tools, all indicative of the daily culinary practices of its residents.
Archaeologists also uncovered an intriguing collection of bronze coins adorned with the likenesses of Byzantine emperors, Latin inscriptions, and Christian symbols. Among these coins were gold pieces that date back to the reign of Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 AD. These coins not only serve as currency but also reflect the intertwining of economic and religious life during this era.
Ancient Tombs at Marina el-Alamein
In a separate but equally significant archaeological endeavour, researchers have made substantial findings at the Marina el-Alamein site, located approximately 100 kilometres west of Alexandria. The excavation has revealed 18 ancient tombs, including 11 rock-cut tombs that reach depths of eight metres and seven limestone-built surface tombs, bringing the total number of tombs at the site to 48.
Led by Eman Abdel-Khaliq, the mission has uncovered a 2.5-metre-long granite sarcophagus containing skeletal remains, which are currently undergoing analysis. Nearby, a plaster sphinx statue was discovered, along with four gold pieces placed in the mouths of the deceased—an ancient funerary custom known as the “golden tongue”.
The Historical Context
Marina el-Alamein, believed to be the site of the ancient Greco-Roman port city of Leukaspis, was an important maritime hub from the second to the fourth centuries. These recent findings, which include pottery vessels, amphorae, lamps, and altars, underscore the site’s historical significance and its role in ancient trade and cultural exchanges along the Mediterranean.
Why it Matters
The discoveries in both Dakhla and Marina el-Alamein are monumental for our understanding of Egypt’s Byzantine heritage, providing a wealth of information about urban life, economic practices, and burial customs. As these archaeological sites continue to be explored, they not only enrich our historical narrative but also strengthen Egypt’s position as a centre for archaeological research and tourism. This renewed interest in the nation’s ancient past could potentially lead to greater investment in heritage preservation and education, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from these invaluable cultural treasures.