Egyptian archaeologists have discovered 18 Greco-Roman tombs near Marina El-Alamein and a 4th-century Byzantine village in the Dakhla Oasis, according to a Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announcement. The finds include 24 gold funerary objects, a 2.5-meter granite sarcophagus, and ancient coins dating to the reign of Emperor Constantius II.
What was uncovered at the Marina El-Alamein site?
Recent excavations roughly 100 kilometers west of Alexandria have revealed 18 Greco-Roman tombs. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities reported on Saturday that several burial chambers were found with their stone slabs still in place. One notable find is a granite sarcophagus measuring approximately 2.5 meters, which remains intact with its lid. This suggests the burials were sealed for nearly 2,000 years.
Archaeologists recovered human remains alongside pottery, amphorae, and various funerary items. A significant discovery involves 24 gold objects placed in the mouths of several individuals. This specific practice is linked to ancient funerary beliefs regarding the afterlife.
This latest find brings the total number of known tombs at the Marina El-Alamein site to 44. The location was first identified in 1986 during construction projects.
What does the Dakhla Oasis discovery reveal about Byzantine life?
In the western Egyptian desert, archaeologists located the remains of a Byzantine village at Aïn al-Sabil in the Dakhla Oasis. According to the ministry’s Friday announcement, the settlement dates back to approximately the 4th century AD.
The village was constructed using mud bricks and featured an organized urban layout. Key elements of the site include:
- A network of organized streets and public squares.
- Residential buildings and defensive structures.
- A church built in the basilica style.
Excavations at Aïn al-Sabil also yielded about 200 ostraca, which are pottery shards used for writing, inscribed in both Greek and Coptic. Researchers also found bronze and gold coins, including pieces from the reign of Roman Emperor Constantius II (337–361 AD).
How does archaeology support Egypt’s economic stability?
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is increasingly using major archaeological finds to promote Egypt’s cultural heritage and attract international travelers. These discoveries serve as a strategic tool to boost tourism revenue, which is a primary source of foreign currency for the country.
The economic importance of tourism is significant when compared to other major Egyptian revenue streams. While the Suez Canal and remittances from Egyptians working abroad are vital, the tourism sector provides a critical influx of foreign exchange. High-profile discoveries like those in Marina El-Alamein and Dakhla are frequently highlighted to maintain international interest in the country’s historical sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 18 tombs were discovered in Marina El-Alamein, approximately 100 kilometers west of Alexandria.
The 24 gold objects placed in the mouths of the deceased are part of a funerary practice tied to ancient beliefs about the afterlife.
The Byzantine village at Aïn al-Sabil dates back to approximately the 4th century AD.
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