Byzantine Monastic City Unearthed in Egypt

Remains of a complete residential complex for monks dating back to the Byzantine era have been found.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities stated in an official statement today, Tuesday, that the discovery took place at the site "Al-Qarya Balduir" in the Tama Center of Sohag Governorate.

In this context, Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy confirmed that this discovery embodies the richness and diversity of Egyptian cultural heritage across different eras, indicating that such discoveries support the ministry's efforts in developing the cultural tourism product and highlighting unconventional archaeological destinations, which contributes to attracting more visitors and researchers interested in the history of civilizations and religions.

Complete Monastic Community

For his part, Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that the significance of this discovery lies in the new information it provides about the nature of monastic life in Upper Egypt during the Byzantine era, noting that the excavation results indicate the existence of a complete monastic community with an organized lifestyle within the site.

In the same context, Mr. Mohamed Abdel Badi, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, stated that the excavations revealed remains of rectangular-shaped buildings made of mud bricks, extending from west to east, varying in size from approximately 8 × 7 meters to 14 × 8 meters.

These buildings include rectangular halls, some of which contain niches or alcoves designated for worship, in addition to small rooms with vaulted ceilings, likely used as cells or places for individual worship.