Ancient Byzantine city discovered in Egypt desert

Archaeologists have discovered a centuries-old city buried in the Egyptian desert. The city dates back to the 4th century AD and belonged to the Byzantine era. It contains residential and religious buildings including a church. Researchers also uncovered coins, pottery and various tools at the site.

According to a statement issued by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism, the ancient city was discovered in an oasis in the desert of New Valley Governorate in western Egypt.

The ministry said the discovery provides valuable insights into daily life, urban development and economic activity during the Byzantine period, when Egypt was under Byzantine rule.

The city featured a network of roads connecting different districts as well as public squares and communal spaces. The church is located at the center of the city while the remains of two watchtowers suggest they were built to help protect the settlement.

Archaeologists also uncovered a large fortified structure surrounded by thick defensive walls. Several homes contained reception halls and vaulted ceilings indicating advanced architectural planning.

In addition, researchers found hearths, kitchens, bronze coins and grinding tools. The coins bear images of Byzantine emperors along with Latin inscriptions and Christian symbols. Gold coins discovered at the site date to the reign of the Roman Emperor Constantius II who ruled from 337 to 361 AD.

Separately, archaeologists also discovered 18 historic tombs located about 62 miles (100 kilometers) west of Alexandria. Of these, 11 tombs were carved into rock while the remaining seven were constructed from limestone. The tombs contained clay jars, oil lamps, plates and limestone vessels offering further insights into the region’s ancient history.