Ancient monastery uncovered in Egypt dates to beginnings of monasticism

A joint Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Faculty of Archaeology at Cairo University has unearthed the remains of an ancient monastery dating back to the period between the fourth and sixth centuries AD.

The new discovery is located in the area of buried monasteries in Wadi al-Natrun, al-Beheira Governorate, considered one of the most important centers for the origins of monasticism in Egypt and the world.

This discovery represents an important stage in the development of early monastic life, shedding light on the architectural planning of the first monasteries in this region of great religious and historical significance.

The discovered building covers an area of approximately 2,000 square meters and is constructed of mud bricks.

The outer walls are up to one meter thick, while the inner walls range between 60 and 70 centimeters in thickness and between 1.80 and 2.20 meters in height.

Details of the finding

The building features a central open courtyard at the heart of the overall plan, surrounded by a group of architectural units, including smaller courtyards opening onto monks’ cells of varying shapes and sizes, ranging from square to rectangular.

Service annexes were also uncovered in the western part of the building, including fully equipped kitchens, ovens, and storage areas for provisions.