Remains of rare 2,200-year-old Greco-Roman temple discovered in Egypt

According to the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, archaeologists have unearthed the remains of a 2,200-year-old Greco-Roman temple in Egypt’s Western Desert. A sculpture of a man’s head and two limestone lion statues were among the artifacts discovered on the site.

Located at the Al-Salam site, which is south of the Mediterranean Sea, the ruins features the front section of the temple as well as parts of its foundation and main entrance.

The archaeologists also discovered a three-feet-thick outer wall leading to a front courtyard, which is surrounded on both sides by entrances to other chambers.

Ayman Ashmawi, the head of the Ministry’s Ancient Egyptian Antiquities department, revealed that the archaeologists expect to find more temple remains after other excavations are carried out later this year.

The head of the archaeological mission Abdel-Aziz El-Demery unveiled that during the removal of the debris from the site, the mission uncovered architectural elements including upper lintels decorated with scenes, as well as parts of corner pillars decorated with the egg-and-dart architectural device common in the Graeco-Roman era.

El-Demery added that the mission also found the remains of pots, coins, and a statue of a man with Greek facial features, as well as two limestone statues of lions, one of which is headless.

The history of the Siwa Oasis

She said that it will go a long way in helping to shed light on the history of the Siwa Oasis, which is one of the most isolated Egyptian settlements.

The stones and architectural elements show that the temple was built in the Greco-Roman style. The upper lintels and corner pillars are decorated with bas-relief ovals with pointed, narrow carvings.

Located in the Western Desert, Siwa Oasis is famous because Alexander the Great reportedly visited an oracle there who assured him he was the divine king of Egypt.

The temple discovery might provide some clues as to the Greco-Roman occupation era. Not only were temples used as religious places, but they were also economic hubs where priests lived and locals paid visits.

Alexander the Great conquered Egypt in 332 BC, bringing an end to Persian rule. Following his death, his general Ptolemy took over, starting a line of monarchs who would rule for the next 275 years, until the Romans took over from 30 BC to 395 AD.

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Photo Source: Images courtesy of the Egyptian Antiquities Ministry