2,000-year-old tombs and Byzantine city found in Egypt

Archaeologists have unearthed a significant collection of ancient tombs at the Marina el-Alamein site on Egypt's Mediterranean coast. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the discovery of 18 tombs, including surface burials and seven limestone above-ground structures, adding to the 44 tombs previously found at the location since 1986.

Several of these newly discovered tomb complexes, carved directly into rock, are exceptionally well-preserved, featuring sealed burial chambers that have remained undisturbed since antiquity. Among the recovered artifacts are complete or near-complete pottery vessels, amphorae, oil lamps, plates, altars, and architectural components. A notable find is a 2.5-meter-long granite sarcophagus, believed to have been sealed for about 2,000 years.

Adding to the archaeological significance, 24 gold pieces were found placed in the mouths of some deceased individuals, a practice known as the "golden tongue" ritual. The Marina el-Alamein site, located west of Alexandria, is thought to be the ancient city of Leukaspis, mentioned by the Greek geographer Strabo. The city flourished from the Hellenistic to the Byzantine periods, showing peak construction and economic activity in the first three centuries AD.

In a separate discovery, archaeologists in the Dakhla Oasis have excavated a settlement from the Byzantine era. This desert city features a developed road network, public squares, residential buildings, a basilica-style church, and defensive structures, further illuminating Egypt's rich historical tapestry.