Ancient Christian monastic complex uncovered by archaeologists in Egypt’s Sohag province

An ancient Christian monastery was recently uncovered in Egypt – shedding new light on monastic life in Upper Egypt during the Byzantine period.

Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the discovery on Jan. 6.

In a statement translated from Arabic to English, the Ministry said the structure was found at the Al-Qarya archaeological site, in the village of Al-Duwair in Sohag Governorate.

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At the site, archaeologists found the remains of “a fully integrated monastic settlement dating back to the Byzantine period,” the statement said.

“This was discovered during excavation work at the site and includes the remains of mud brick buildings.”

In Egypt, the Byzantine period began around the 4th century AD until 641 AD, the beginning of the Arab conquest.

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Excavators also found a mud brick building that runs from west to east, measuring 26 feet by 23 by 46 by 26 feet, officials said.

“These buildings include rectangular halls, some of which contain what appears to be an eastern niche or an apse used for worship, as well as small rooms with vaulted ceilings, which may have been used as cells and places of devotion for monks,” the ministry said.

The discovery provides “new information … about monastic life in Upper Egypt during the Byzantine period.”

These buildings were used for a variety of purposes, from mealtimes to “industrial activities” that kept the area running.

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“Some buildings are distinguished by the presence of courtyards on the south side containing entrances, in addition to the remains of small circular buildings believed to have been used as dining tables for monks.”

Officials added, “Excavations have also revealed remains of structures that include vessels made of red bricks and limestone covered with a layer of red concrete, which may have been used to store water or some industrial activities related to the landscape.”

Archaeologists discovered mud brick structures believed to be part of fully integrated monastic houses. (The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt)

A second mud-brick building likely served as the building’s main chapel, officials said, and archaeologists have identified three separate areas: a nave, a choir and a sanctuary.

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“Remains of pillars made of mud bricks were found on the road, indicating that it was covered by a central floor, while the sanctuary is located in the central area on the eastern side in a semicircular shape, surrounded by two side rooms,” said the statement.

Artifacts included amphorae with unknown inscriptions, ostraca with Coptic inscriptions, limestone panels and “tools of everyday life.”

Artifacts found at the site include amphorae, limestone panels and tools used in everyday life. (The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt)

The discovery provides “new information … about monastic life in Upper Egypt during the Byzantine period,” according to officials.

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Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy said the discovery helps the department’s efforts to “promote cultural tourism and highlight non-traditional archaeological sites.”

Egypt remains a rich source of archaeological finds, with new discoveries being announced every month.

Officials said the findings provide important insight into Christian monastic traditions in Upper Egypt. (The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt)

In the summer, archaeologists discovered an ancient workshop “rich in secrets” in the Sinai region.

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Early last year, Egyptian officials unveiled unprecedented tombs of ancient Egyptian dignitaries in the Kingdom of Luxor.