Egypt has unveiled two major archaeological discoveries that shed new light on daily life during the Byzantine and Roman periods.
Officials said the findings at Dakhla Oasis and Marina el-Alamein could strengthen Egypt’s tourism industry, a vital source of foreign currency alongside the Suez Canal.
Archaeologists uncovered a remarkably preserved Byzantine residential settlement at Dakhla Oasis, revealing the city’s layout, economic activity and everyday life during the fourth century.
The settlement features broad streets, open public squares and a basilica church overlooking the town, highlighting its organised urban design.
Researchers also identified two watchtowers and a heavily fortified structure with thick defensive walls protecting the settlement’s outer areas.
Excavations revealed houses with reception halls and vaulted roofs, including the home of church deacon Tisous, believed to have served as an early house church.
The team also uncovered bread ovens, kitchens and stone grinding tools, offering a vivid glimpse into food production and domestic life.
Well-preserved bronze coins bearing Byzantine emperors, Christian symbols and Latin inscriptions were recovered alongside gold coins from the reign of Roman emperor Constantius II.
The excavation also produced around 200 inscribed pottery fragments, known as ostraca, documenting commercial transactions, correspondence and other aspects of daily life.
Dakhla Oasis, located in Egypt’s Western Desert and listed on UNESCO’s Tentative List, stands one step away from potential World Heritage recognition.
Meanwhile, archaeologists discovered 18 ancient tombs at the Marina el-Alamein archaeological site, about 100 kilometres west of Alexandria.
Egyptian authorities say the discoveries deepen understanding of the country’s ancient past while reinforcing efforts to attract visitors drawn by its extraordinary archaeological heritage.
