Discovery of a Forgotten Byzantine City
A long-lost urban settlement from the Byzantine period has been uncovered in Egypt’s Western Desert. Found in the Dakhla Oasis within the New Valley Governorate, this site sheds light on daily life during the 4th century, a time when Egypt was under Byzantine rule. Archaeologists have revealed entire districts with streets and squares, along with a basilica built around the mid-4th century. The remains of two watchtowers and fortified structures with thick defensive walls have also survived.
Among the discoveries is the House of Tisu, identified as the residence of a church deacon and dated to the latter half of the 4th century. Researchers also found bread-baking ovens, kitchen utensils, and stone tools. Notable finds include well-preserved bronze coins bearing portraits of Byzantine emperors, as well as a hoard of gold coins from the reign of Roman Emperor Constantius II, who ruled from 337 to 361 CE. Around 200 fragments of pottery (ostraca) were recovered, inscribed with records of trade agreements, correspondence, and details of everyday life.
The Marina el-Alamein Archaeological Site
At the Marina el-Alamein archaeological site, roughly 100 kilometers west of Alexandria, 18 ancient tombs have been uncovered. These include:
- 11 rock-cut tombs averaging 8 meters in depth;
- Seven above-ground limestone tombs.
This brings the total number of tombs found at the site to 48, including a granite sarcophagus measuring 2.5 meters in length.
This discovery offers crucial insights into life during the Byzantine period in Egypt and opens new avenues for archaeological research in the region. It also highlights the significance of Egypt’s broader archaeological finds, which help reconstruct the history and culture of this ancient civilization. The artifacts recovered from the Western Desert add fresh details to our understanding of the past.
The unearthing of a Byzantine city and a tomb complex underscores Egypt’s role as a vital hub of history and culture. These finds not only expand our knowledge of ancient life but also emphasize the importance of preserving archaeological heritage. Such discoveries promote tourism and scientific research in the region, potentially boosting the economy and raising global awareness of Egypt’s historical legacy.
As archaeologists continue to uncover significant historical sites in Egypt, another remarkable find has emerged. Recently, an ancient settlement from the Hyksos and New Kingdom periods was discovered, further enriching our understanding of the region's past. These excavations not only reveal the complexities of ancient urban life but also underscore Egypt's pivotal role in the development of early civilizations.