In a significant archaeological discovery, a collection of 18 tombs and various artifacts was revealed during excavations at Marina El Alamein, an ancient city located on Egypt’s northwestern coast. This remarkable find was announced by the Egyptian Tourism and Antiquities Ministry in early July. The excavations are part of a broader initiative to construct a visitor center in the area.
The Historical Significance of Marina El Alamein
Marina El Alamein thrived from the Hellenistic period through the Byzantine era, roughly situated around 100 kilometers west of Alexandria. This city is thought to correlate with Leukaspis, a location notably mentioned by the Greek geographer Strabo. The site was initially discovered in 1986 during construction activities, leading to extensive archaeological investigations that revealed one of the best-preserved ancient coastal cities in Egypt.
Details of the Tombs and Findings
Among the tombs uncovered, 11 are hypogea, meaning they are intricately carved into the rock, while the remaining seven are built from limestone and rest above ground. Noteworthy is the exceptional preservation of some tombs, with their entrances sealed by stone slabs that have remained undisturbed since ancient times. Eman Abdel Khalek, the leader of the archaeological mission, emphasized the discovery of a 2.5-meter-long granite sarcophagus, complete with its original lid.
Furthermore, a collection of skeletal remains found within the tomb is currently under study. Researchers noted that 24 golden tongue pieces, believed to carry symbolic meanings related to ancient Egyptian beliefs, were also unearthed. Among these artifacts was an Eye of Horus-shaped piece, highlighting the cultural depth of the era.
Additional Artifacts and Future Plans
In addition to the tombs, numerous artifacts surfaced during the excavation, encompassing pottery vessels, amphorae, oil lamps, limestone altars, and various architectural features related to the tombs. One of the significant discoveries is a limestone altar adorned with an ancient Egyptian funerary “false door” facade used for offerings.
Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, expressed a commitment to transform Marina El Alamein into an official tourist destination. Future plans include the establishment of a comprehensive visitor center, with roads, pedestrian pathways, and an open-air theater, all set for completion by mid-2027.
This archaeological endeavor not only unearths treasures from Egypt’s past but also serves as a crucial step in preserving and sharing Egypt’s rich cultural heritage. The discoveries at Marina El Alamein provide valuable insights into the funerary practices and architectural styles that persisted throughout the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, reconnecting us to the timeless narratives of ancient civilizations.