Upper Egypt Discovery: 18th-Century City Found

A joint Egyptian–French archaeological mission has uncovered major remains at the Sheikh Al-Arab Hammam site in Al-Arki village, Qena Governorate. The discovery includes parts of an 18th-century mudbrick residential city and a Coptic necropolis dating back to the Byzantine period, according to Ahram Online.

The findings are considered highly important as the area has long remained underexplored. The newly discovered residential structures date back to the time of Sheikh Al-Arab Hammam, one of the most influential figures in Upper Egypt during the 18th century.

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy said the project aims to study and preserve the site and prepare it for inclusion on Egypt’s tourist map. He highlighted that the site lies between the well-known archaeological locations of Dendera and Abydos, which could strengthen tourism in the region.

Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, described the discovery as significant because historical sources about this area are limited. The site provides rare information about settlement patterns and daily life in Upper Egypt.

Excavations have so far revealed six houses along with service buildings and part of an industrial zone, according to Diaa Zahran, head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector. Some houses were built with mudbrick domes, while others had roofs made from palm trunks. White lime plaster was found in several rooms, showing different architectural styles and construction methods.

Archaeologists also discovered a variety of artefacts that reflect daily life in the settlement. These include bronze coins, pottery fragments, children’s toys, jewellery, textile remains, and other objects, indicating a lively and active community.

Beneath the residential layers, the team uncovered part of a Coptic necropolis from the Byzantine era. Ahmed El-Shoky, head of the mission, said geophysical surveys helped guide the excavation after a limestone coffin lid was found reused as paving at one of the city’s entrances.

The necropolis contains two types of burials: simple graves dug directly into the ground and burials surrounded by mudbrick structures. Linen wrappings and tunics woven in traditional Coptic style were found, decorated with geometric, floral, and animal designs, as well as crosses and inscriptions. A copper stamp used for decorating baked goods was also discovered.

Experts say the discovery provides valuable information about funerary practices, industrial activities, and population patterns in Upper Egypt from the Byzantine period through the Islamic era.

Further studies will focus on examining the remains of around 23 individuals found at the site. Pierre Tallet, director of the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology, confirmed that bio-archaeological analysis will study their diet, health, age, and sex. Researchers will also investigate evidence suggesting mummification practices.