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Al-Ahram Weekly
a day ago
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Reviving a sacred legacy - Egypt - Al-Ahram Weekly
The Abu Mena Monastery near Alexandria is undergoing restoration and development work to reclaim its outstanding historical and spiritual role. In the arid landscape of Borg Al-Arab southwest of Alexandria, the Monastery of Abu Mena rises as a silent witness to centuries of Christian devotion. Once one of the most important pilgrimage centres in the early Christian world, this revered site, home to the tomb of St Mena, a fourth-century Coptic martyr, is now the focus of a national initiative to preserve, protect, and revitalise its historic significance. Inscribed on the UN cultural agency UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1979 for its exceptional cultural value, the Monastery of Abu Mena has faced considerable threats over the years. Environmental changes, particularly the rising water table, have weakened the integrity of its ancient structures. As a result, UNESCO placed the site on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2001. A multi-phase restoration project spearheaded by the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) in collaboration with conservation experts and engineers then aimed not only to stabilise the site's archaeological remains but also to reintegrate the monastery into Egypt's cultural landscape. Measures have included improving drainage systems, supporting vulnerable foundations, and applying new conservation techniques tailored to the unique challenges of the site. The groundwater-lowering project at the Abu Mena Monastery has been successfully completed, safeguarding the site from rising groundwater levels that had prompted UNESCO to add it to the World Heritage in Danger List. The project was carried out in close coordination with the ministries of water resources and irrigation, agriculture, and land reclamation, and the Alexandria governorate. Funded with a budget of LE50 million provided by the SCA, the project involved comprehensive technical measures to address the groundwater threat. A total of 69 trenches ranging from 35 to 50 metres in depth were excavated across the site, including 12 surrounding the tomb of St Mena. These were linked with 6.15-metre pipes connected to a pumping system that effectively reduced groundwater levels. In parallel, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in collaboration with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation worked to divert and remove wastewater from the area and implemented the conversion of the local irrigation system to a more sustainable drip-irrigation method, reducing water seepage into the archaeological zone. In addition, restoration work has also been carried out on the western wall surrounding the basilica at the Abu Mena site, with all original architectural elements carefully returned to their original positions. Detailed restoration work across the rest of the site remains ongoing. The project reflects a wider vision for sustainable heritage management in Egypt, one that balances archaeological integrity, spiritual continuity, and economic development through tourism. Abu Mena, with its ancient basilicas, baptistery, crypts, and communal spaces, represents not just the past, but a shared future grounded in history and identity. To enhance the site's management and improve the visitor experience, new information and directive panels have been installed in cooperation with the Alexandria governorate, alongside the construction of access roads to facilitate easier entry. In coordination with UNESCO, additional explanatory panels have been installed throughout the site. These panels include content in both Arabic and English, along with QR codes that link to the ministry's official website, offering visitors in-depth historical and archaeological information. As part of the broader site development, a range of visitor services have been introduced. These include modern restrooms, shaded seating areas, benches, recycling bins, and improved accessibility features designed to accommodate visitors with special needs. INSPECTION: Early this week, Sherif Fathy, the minister of tourism and antiquities, Ahmed Khaled Hassan Said, the Alexandria governor, and Nuria Sanz, director of the UNESCO Regional Bureau, in the presence of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, pope of Alexandria and patriarch of the See of St Mark, embarked on a tour of the Abu Mena Monastery to review the work being achieved. During the visit, the delegation toured key areas of the site, including the ancient architectural remains and the newly installed infrastructure for groundwater management. The project includes a network of deep wells, drainage lines, and an automated monitoring system designed to stabilise groundwater levels and protect the site's fragile remains. Fathy praised the extensive efforts made by all the parties involved, highlighting the collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Coptic Church, and UNESCO as a model of cultural stewardship. 'Preserving this exceptional site is not only a national responsibility but a global commitment. Abu Mena is a symbol of shared human heritage and deserves to be showcased as a cornerstone of Egypt's cultural and spiritual tourism,' he said. He highlighted the ministry's strategy to promote Abu Mena internationally, integrating cutting-edge technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance visitor engagement and awareness. Plans are also underway to train specialised tour guides and local monastery staff to ensure the high-quality interpretation of the site's historical and architectural significance. Pope Tawadros II expressed his appreciation of the state's commitment to preserving Abu Mena, describing the efforts as 'a great national achievement that reflects Egypt's respect for its diverse heritage.' He noted that the site attracts visitors from across Egypt, both Christians and Muslims, as well as international pilgrims. Governor Ahmed Khaled reiterated the governorate's full support for the restoration and development of Abu Mena, calling it a vital component of Alexandria's cultural identity and a key destination on Egypt's heritage tourism map. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the SCA, described the groundwater project as a turning point in protecting the site, moving it closer to removal from the UNESCO List of World Heritage in Danger. He affirmed the SCA's continued dedication to managing archaeological sites with professionalism and foresight. He said the ministry had sent UNESCO a report on the state of preservation of the site in February 2022, along with details of corrective measures. The report includes details of the groundwater-lowering project and an integrated management plan proposed for the first time at the site since it was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1979, including plans to evaluate risks, amend the boundaries of the archaeological site, and ensure its preservation and restoration. Sanz commended the integrated approach adopted at Abu Mena, calling the project a 'valuable learning experience' and a testament to the importance of shared responsibility in safeguarding World Heritage. As part of the development plan, the site will soon feature improved signage, eco-friendly visitor services, and full accessibility for visitors with disabilities. These enhancements aim to provide a seamless and inclusive visitor experience that reflects the site's profound historical and spiritual significance. 'We are here to celebrate the spirit of partnership. The conservation plan of the World Heritage Site has been a learning process for all of us. It was not just about assessment or technicalities. This is a site that is managed and preserved by many actors and institutions. And we are all part of this endeavour, and we have felt since the beginning a sense of shared responsibility,' Sanz said. HISTORY: Beyond its material preservation, the Abu Mena Monastery holds deep spiritual value for the Coptic community. Historically, pilgrims travelled from across the Mediterranean to visit the shrine of St Mena, seeking healing and blessings. With the restoration efforts, officials hope to renew this legacy by preparing the site to once again receive religious pilgrims and visitors from around the world. The Abu Mena site was one of the great centres of pilgrimage in Egypt from the fifth to seventh centuries CE. Thousands of people came from all over the Christian world seeking healing, and pilgrims took home holy water in tiny pottery ampoules shaped like two-handled jars and stamped with the figure of the saint between two camels or oil from the lamp that burned before the tomb. Gamal Mustafa, head of Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities at the SCA, said that the architectural features of the Abu Mena site, spanning a diverse array of building types, bear strong influences from Egyptian architectural traditions. These elements vividly showcase the fusion of traditional Egyptian architecture with diverse styles from the wider Mediterranean Basin, marking a significant advancement in early Christian architectural design and customs. The property encompasses all the essential elements to convey its Outstanding Universal Value for UNESCO listing, including the preserved archaeological structures of the Abu Mena Monastery with its integrated plan, thereby fulfilling the requirements of integrity. The structural integrity of the churches, St Mena's tomb, pilgrim accommodations, public baths, workshops, and cisterns remains robust, with regular maintenance efforts in progress. Nonetheless, the property remains vulnerable to risks posed by heavy rainfall, winds, humidity, and fire, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and protection measures, UNESCO has said. The authenticity of the property is underscored by several key attributes, including the overall design of the monastery and its structures, as well as the preservation of original building materials, initially documented during excavations in 1905. These materials encompass limestone, bricks, mortars, and marble, contributing to the unique architectural composition and layout of the Christian centre alongside the remarkably intact holy marble settlement. While complete historical structures are scarce, remnants such as lower sections, floor plans, and certain vertical elements persist, faithfully representing their original form, design, and substance. The original urban layout has been meticulously maintained, showcasing surviving buildings such as the grand basilica, the martyr's tomb, churches, hostels, and public edifices. Additionally, the presence of olive, raisin, and wine presses offers insight into the development of industry and technology during this early historical period, dating back to the fourth century CE. These elements collectively contribute to the authenticity of the property, preserving its rich heritage and cultural significance for future generations to learn from and enjoy. Coptic Bishop Badawes Avamena, responsible for antiquities at the Abu Mena Monastery, said that Mena was a soldier-saint who had died a martyr's death during the Roman period. His cult gained popularity when, according to legend, his body was placed on a camel and borne inland to be buried. At a certain spot, the camel refused to move further, a sign taken as a divine revelation that he should be buried there. Wind-blown sand eventually covered the tomb of the saint, and no trace was left. Some centuries later, a shepherd observed that a sick lamb that had crossed the spot had become well. When the remains of the saint were rediscovered, a church was built over his grave. The reputation of the place spread far and wide. Pilgrims came in scores, and the stories of the cures that they carried home attracted more pilgrims. Soon the original church was too small to accommodate the number of visitors, and the Roman emperor Arcadius (395-408 CE) built another church, to which the saint's relics were transferred. Subsequent emperors erected other buildings, and eventually the site's basilica was built, to which thousands of pilgrims flocked from as far afield as England, France, Germany, Spain, and Turkey. Cures were attributed to the therapeutic effects of water from springs in the area's limestone rocks, and baths were built flanking the church. When the Roman emperor Constantine the Great's only daughter, who suffered from leprosy, was reputedly healed at the pilgrimage site, its fame spread further throughout the Roman world. A great city grew up, flourished, and then eventually disappeared. Though written about by classical writers, the city was thought to have been legendary until in 1961 the German Archaeological Institute excavated the area under the direction of archaeologist Peter Grossman and discovered one of the largest and most ancient pilgrimage sites in the world. The ruins cover an area of one square km where the main colonnaded pilgrimage route of the early Christians has been identified. It had shops and workshops to the left and right, leading to the Church of the Martyr Mena built during the era of the Byzantine emperor Justinian (528-565 CE). The ruins suggest that pilgrims gathered in a great square surrounded by hostels. There, monks could take care of the sick who came to the shrine to be healed. There are also the ruins of two large bathhouses and wells. A new monastery has now been built at the site, its lofty walls and twin towers situated no more than 500 metres from the ancient site. The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 because it is an outstanding example of one of the first early Christian monastic centres developed in the Near East. Beyond its religious significance, it served as a prominent pilgrimage destination, boasting a larger settlement compared to many contemporary sites in the region. As Egypt moves forward with the rehabilitation of Abu Mena, there is a renewed sense of optimism. By combining technical expertise, community engagement, and government commitment, the country is setting an example in heritage preservation that echoes far beyond the sands of Borg Al-Arab. * A version of this article appears in print in the 29 May, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Egypt Today
3 days ago
- General
- Egypt Today
Ancient Structure and Coptic Art Unearthed in Upper Egypt
In a remarkable archaeological discovery, an Egyptian mission working in the Monqabad area in Asyut has uncovered the remains of a mudbrick building dating back to the 6th–7th century AD. The announcement comes as part of the Supreme Council of Antiquities' ongoing efforts to support excavations across the country, under the directives of Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, revealed that the building features two levels coated in white plaster. Inside, archaeologists found a series of rare and important wall paintings. One striking mural features repeated eye motifs centered around a human face—a symbolic representation in Coptic art often interpreted as inner spiritual insight and divine awareness. Another mural shows the image of a man carrying a child, likely Saint Joseph holding the Christ Child, flanked by disciples and Coptic inscriptions. Dr. Gamal Mostafa, Head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector, added that the first level of the structure includes three parallel halls followed by two rooms. A staircase leads to a lower level with three parallel cells and two living quarters. Numerous artifacts were uncovered, including Coptic-inscribed tombstones, amphorae bearing Coptic letters, and a stone frieze adorned with animal motifs of a gazelle and a lion. Various multi-use pottery vessels were also found. According to Mahmoud Mohamed, Director of Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities in East Asyut, excavation and mural studies are ongoing to unravel the building's function and significance further. Monqabad is about 12 kilometers northwest of Asyut City and roughly 22 kilometers from Asyut International Airport. The site was initially discovered in 1965, with intermittent excavation seasons beginning in 1976 and continuing through 2010, before resuming with the current 2024 mission.
Daily News Egypt
5 days ago
- General
- Daily News Egypt
Ancient Coptic structure with significant murals discovered in Egypt's Assiut
An Egyptian archaeological mission has discovered a mud-brick building dating from the 6th to 7th centuries AD, along with a number of significant coloured murals, in the Manqabad area of Assiut. The discovery was announced as part of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) ongoing efforts in archaeological excavation and its support for scientific missions, in line with directives from Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the SCA, explained that the discovered building is coated with a layer of white mortar and consists of two levels. Within these, several important murals were found. He highlighted the 'remains of a mural with significant symbolism in Coptic art, where its theme represents eyes in a repetitive manner, with a face in the middle, indicating inner spiritual insight that may be hidden from many who live a worldly life and love the world; it is a symbol of wisdom, awakening, and vigilance in pastoral matters.' Khaled added that another mural depicts 'the remains of a drawing of a man holding a small child, which is likely Joseph the Carpenter holding Jesus Christ, with disciples on the right and left sides, alongside Coptic writings.' Gamal Mostafa, Head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector at the SCA, provided further details on the structure's layout. He indicated that 'the first level of the building consists of three parallel halls, followed by two rooms, which contain a descending staircase leading to the lower level. This lower level features three parallel cells followed by two living rooms.' Numerous pottery and stone artefacts were found within these rooms. Mostafa noted, 'among the most prominent finds is a tombstone of a saint, inscribed with Coptic writings that clarify the saint's name and date of death.' Other discoveries include 'many amphorae of different sizes bearing some Coptic letters, a stone frieze with animal decoration representing the remains of a gazelle and a lion, and some multi-use pottery vessels.' Mahmoud Mohamed, Director-General of the East Assiut Antiquities area for Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities, stated that the mission is continuing its excavation work and the study of the discovered murals. The aim is 'to learn more about the secrets of this building and its importance.' He also provided information on the site's location, noting that 'the Manqabad antiquities area is located in the village of Manqabad, part of Assiut centre and governorate, approximately 12 km northwest of Assiut city. It lies southwest of the main highway and about 22 km from Assiut International Airport.' The Manqabad area was first identified in 1965, with actual excavation work commencing in 1976. Excavation seasons continued intermittently until 2010, followed by the current Egyptian-led excavations in the 2024 season. The ongoing work aims to fully understand the function and significance of the newly discovered Coptic-era building.
The Star
6 days ago
- General
- The Star
Ancient mudbrick building with Coptic murals unearthed in Egypt
CAIRO, May 25 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered a mudbrick building dating to the 6th-7th centuries in the Manqabad area of Assiut Governorate, south of Cairo, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced Sunday. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the two-level structure was covered in white mortar and contained several significant murals, read a ministry statement. One mural, a common motif in Coptic art, symbolically depicts eyes surrounding a face, representing inner spiritual insight, Khaled said. Another mural shows a man, believed to be Joseph the Carpenter, carrying a small child, likely Christ, flanked by Christ's disciples and Coptic inscriptions, he added. Gamal Mustafa, head of the council's Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector, said the discovery also included a tombstone for a saint with Coptic inscriptions, votive vessels of various sizes bearing Coptic letters, and a stone frieze adorned with animal decorations, among others. Mahmoud Mohamed, director general of the East Assiut Antiquities Zone for Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities, said the Egyptian mission is continuing excavation and studying the uncovered murals to learn more about the building's secrets and significance. The Manqabad archaeological site, located some 12 km northwest of Assiut City, was initially discovered in 1965. Actual excavation at the site began in 1976, with intermittent excavation seasons since then.
Al-Ahram Weekly
6 days ago
- General
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Coptic period structure unearthed in Assiut, Upper Egypt - Ancient Egypt
An Egyptian-led archaeological team unearthed the remains of a mudbrick structure in the Monqabad area of Assiut in Upper Egypt, believed to date back to the sixth and seventh centuries AD during the Coptic era in the country. Further excavation is underway to determine the exact function and significance of the mudbrick structure. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, the Supreme Council of Antiquities secretary-general, described the building as having two levels coated in white plaster. The archaeologists also found inscriptions and carvings on walls, which could shed new light on Coptic art and spirituality. These inscriptions and carvings include a unique depiction of multiple eyes surrounding a central face, which is interpreted as representing spiritual insight and inner vision, key themes in Coptic religious tradition. Another striking mural features a man holding a child, believed to represent Saint Joseph carrying the Christ Child. The mural is flanked by figures thought to be Jesus' disciples, with inscriptions in the Coptic language. Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector Head Gamal Mostafa said the upper level contains three parallel halls followed by two rooms, while the lower level features monastic cells and living quarters. Among the artefacts unearthed were also pottery fragments, stone objects, and a tombstone inscribed in Coptic, identifying a saint with the date of his death. Moreover, the excavation revealed several amphorae bearing Coptic letters and a stone frieze with animal carvings, including a deer and a lion, alongside domestic pottery vessels. Meanwhile, Mahmoud Mohamed, director-general of Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities in East Assiut, noted that excavation and documentation efforts will continue in the coming weeks. 'We are still uncovering the story of this building and what it may reveal about Coptic life in Upper Egypt during this period,' he said. The Monqabad archaeological site, located approximately 12 kilometres northwest of Assiut city and about 22 kilometres from Assiut International Airport, has a long history of exploration. Systematic excavations at the site, which was first identified in 1965, began in 1976 and continued intermittently until 2010. Work resumed in 2024 under the current Egyptian-led archaeological mission. This latest discovery adds a valuable chapter to understanding Coptic heritage and monastic life in Egypt's early Christian era and underscores the continued importance of archaeological work in the region. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
