Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered a well-preserved Byzantine-era city in the western desert. The fourth-century quarters in the Dakhla oasis feature residential and religious structures, including a basilica-style church.

Additionally, 18 ancient tombs were discovered at Marina el-Alamein, near Alexandria, comprising rock-cut and limestone tombs, pottery, and a granite sarcophagus. The tourism and antiquities ministry stated the first discovery sheds light on daily life, urban development, and economic activities during Egypt's time in the Byzantine empire.

Hisham el-Leithy, secretary general of the supreme council of antiquities, noted that the unearthed quarters included north-south thoroughfares intersected by east-west streets, forming open squares and public spaces.

A basilica dating to the mid-fourth century stands at the settlement's head, overlooking main streets, along with remains of two watchtowers, according to Mahmoud Massoud, head of the archaeological mission. The oasis is on UNESCO's tentative list for world heritage status.

Massoud added that a heavily fortified structure with thick walls and many houses, including the house of Tisous (a church deacon from the 14th century), were found. Archaeologists also uncovered bread ovens, kitchens, grinding tools, and bronze coins with Byzantine emperor portraits.

A group of gold coins dates to the reign of Roman emperor Constantius II (337-361). Diaa Zahran, head of Islamic, Coptic and Jewish antiquities, reported about 200 pottery fragments (ostraca) with inscriptions detailing commercial transactions and daily life.

At Marina el-Alamein, 11 rock-cut tombs (average depth 8 meters) and seven limestone tombs were found, bringing the total to 48. Mission chief Eman Abdel-Khaliq reported a 2.5-meter granite sarcophagus with skeleton remains and a plaster sphinx statue. Four gold pieces, known as the 'golden tongue', were placed in the mouths of some deceased.

Source: www.theguardian.com