The Egyptian archaeological mission affiliated with the Supreme Council of Antiquities has announced the discovery of a new archaeological building believed to have been used as a guesthouse during the early period of Coptic monasticism. The entrance to this discovery was located in the Al-Qalayat area of Hosh Eissa in Beheira Governorate, with the building dating back to the 5th century AD.
This discovery includes a collection of architectural elements that were added to the building over different historical phases, reflecting the changes in its use over time.
Details of the Discovery
Dr. Hisham El-Laythi, the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that this discovery is a significant scientific addition to the study of the evolution of monastic architecture in Egypt. He noted that the Al-Qalayat area is considered the second largest monastic settlement in the history of Christian monasticism, as its architectural style reflects the initial nucleus for establishing monasteries.
He pointed out that the discovered decorations and paintings are among the primary sources for studying early Coptic art, given their historical significance that sheds light on the nature of monastic life and the evolution of arts in ancient times.
Background & Context
Research indicates that the Al-Qalayat area in Beheira Governorate hosts a rich monastic heritage, where what is known as "Qalayat" has been discovered, consisting of clusters of private homes for monks. The area was historically called Kalia, and numerous French and Swiss missions have conducted research work over the past years.
The discovered building includes 13 multifunctional rooms, including accommodation rooms, guest reception areas, and educational workshops. It also contains service facilities such as a kitchen and storage areas, reflecting the daily lifestyle of the monks at that time.
Impact & Consequences
This discovery reflects the evolution of simple monastic architecture into a semi-communal residential style, where facilities were designated for receiving visitors. This gradual development reflects changes in the nature and details of performance at the level of monastic life.
Dr. Ibrahim Sawiris, a specialist in Coptic heritage, emphasized the significant importance of this discovery in highlighting the history of the region and monastic life. This discovery is expected to contribute to reevaluating the general understanding of Coptic heritage and renewing research in this field.
Regional Significance
This discovery represents a milestone in the cultural and religious heritage of Egypt, which could benefit academic studies and promote cultural tourism in the region. Emphasizing the importance of Coptic monasticism as part of Egyptian cultural identity enhances awareness of the history of this technique and reflects the diversity of monuments in Egypt.
In conclusion, experts expressed their desire for scientific missions to enhance their efforts to study these discoveries scientifically, contributing to documenting the history of Coptic monasticism and integrating it into educational and cultural curricula.