An Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered the remains of an early Coptic city at Ain al-Kharab in the Kharga Oasis, located in Egypt's Western Desert. The discovery, announced by the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), offers a significant glimpse into the transition from paganism to Christianity in Egypt.
The remarkably preserved settlement features mudbrick residential structures with plastered walls, ovens, and storage jars, providing insights into the daily lives of its inhabitants. Artifacts unearthed include ostraca, pottery shards, glass, and stone pieces, alongside several burials, painting a vivid picture of life during this transformative period. The Kharga Oasis has a long history of settlement, sustained by underground water sources, and is known for its ancient Christian remains.
Central to the excavation are two early Coptic churches. One is a substantial basilica-style structure with a central hall and aisles, while the second is a more intimate, rectangular church displaying Coptic inscriptions on its interior walls. A rare mural depicting Jesus Christ healing a sick person was also discovered, offering crucial insights into the artistic and spiritual expressions of nascent Christian communities and suggesting cross-cultural influences.
Sherif Fathy, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, highlighted the discovery's role in showcasing the depth and diversity of Egyptian civilization during this pivotal religious evolution, emphasizing its contribution to understanding religious transitions and Egypt's historical values of tolerance. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the SCA, further elaborated on the site's importance, noting the Kharga Oasis's long-standing role as a religious and social hub, which this discovery reinforces for the early Coptic era. The find is expected to enhance Egypt's cultural tourism appeal and reinforce its place in the global narrative of religious and historical development.