Egypt Unveils Significant Archaeological Discoveries at Dakhla Oasis and Marina el-Alamein

Egypt announced two major archaeological finds on Saturday, shedding light on ancient lifestyles and supporting its tourism sector. The discoveries at Dakhla Oasis and Marina el-Alamein offer insights into Byzantine-era and Greco-Roman periods.

Dakhla Oasis Discovery

The Dakhla Oasis, located in Egypt’s western desert, revealed details of fourth-century life under the Byzantine Empire. Excavations uncovered residential structures, including north-south and east-west streets forming open squares. A basilica church from the mid-fourth century and two watchtowers highlight strategic urban planning.

The oasis, on UNESCO’s Tentative List, featured heavily fortified structures, houses with reception halls and vaulted roofs. Among these, the residence of Tisous served as a house church before the basilica’s construction. Archaeologists found bread ovens, kitchens, stone grinding tools, bronze coins depicting Byzantine emperors, and gold coins from Roman Emperor Constantius II’s reign.

About 200 pottery fragments known as octraca were discovered, used for writing material with inscriptions detailing daily life and commercial transactions.

Marina el-Alamein Findings

In the Marina el-Alamein site, 18 ancient tombs were uncovered, adding to the total of 48 tombs identified there. These included 11 rock-cut tombs and seven limestone-built tombs. Artifacts such as pottery vessels, amphorae, lamps, and altars were found.

A granite sarcophagus with skeleton remains was unearthed, alongside a plaster sphinx statue. Four gold pieces, known as “the golden tongue,” were found in the mouths of some deceased, reflecting funerary practices of that era.

Marina el-Alamein, near the city of Alexandria, is believed to be the ancient port city of Leukaspis. Established in the second century and prospering until the fourth, the site offers valuable insights into Greco-Roman culture.

Impact on Tourism

With tourism recovering post-political unrest and COVID-19, Egypt welcomed 19 million tourists last year, marking a 21% increase from 2024. The first four months of 2026 saw 6.1 million tourists, up from 5.7 million in 2025.