Ancient City Revealing Early Coptic Life Unearthed in Egypt’s Kharga Oasis
A remarkable archaeological discovery in the Kharga Oasis is shedding new light on the formative period of Coptic Christianity in Egypt, revealing a remarkably well-preserved ancient city dating back to the early centuries of the faith. The find promises to reshape our understanding of religious life and cultural exchange in the region.
The disclosure, as described by officials, underscores the richness and diversity of Egyptian civilization throughout its long history. The ongoing excavations, fully supported by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, highlight Egypt’s commitment to preserving its heritage and bolstering its position as a leading destination for global cultural tourism.
A Window into the Past
According to a senior official, the archaeological mission has completely revealed the remains of a city, offering a detailed glimpse into daily life during a pivotal era. The unearthed structures include residential buildings constructed from mud bricks, some with walls covered in mortar, alongside dedicated service areas featuring ovens for food preparation.
Archaeologists also uncovered a variety of artifacts, including pottery utensils, stone fragments, glass pieces, and burial sites. Notably, the team discovered a mural depicting Jesus healing a sick person, a powerful testament to the burgeoning Christian community in the region.
Two Churches Discovered in the Oasis
The excavation yielded the remains of two distinct churches. Dr. Siham Ismail, Director General of Antiquities of Kharja and head of the mission, explained that one church is built in the basilica style using mud brick, with stone foundations indicating a large hall flanked by wings separated by square columns. Service buildings are located in the southern region of the church.
The second church is smaller in size, with a rectangular layout and surrounded by the remnants of seven external columns. Internal walls of this structure are adorned with Coptic writings, and service buildings were found on its western side.
A Crossroads of Civilizations
The site’s significance extends beyond its religious importance. The findings suggest the region served as a vital center for religious and social life across multiple historical periods. A senior official emphasized that buildings dating back to the Roman era were detected alongside those from the early Coptic and subsequent Islamic periods, demonstrating the oasis’s continuous occupation and cultural layering.
“This discovery sheds light on an important era in the history of the Kharga Oasis region,” stated a senior official. “It highlights the importance of western Egypt’s oases as a center for religious and social life in different ages.”
The ongoing work promises further insights into the complex interplay of cultures and faiths that shaped ancient Egypt, solidifying the Kharga Oasis as a crucial site for archaeological research and a testament to the enduring legacy of Egyptian civilization.
