Roman-era Necropolis Uncovered in Marsa Matrouh

The Egyptian archaeological mission, headed by Professor Kotb Fawzy, Chief of the Central Administration of Northern Egypt and Sinai Antiquities, has successfully uncovered a Roman-era necropolis in Marsa Matrouh during excavations in the Umm al-Rakham archaeological site located in Matrouh Governorate.

In his remarks, Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, highlighted the significance of this finding, noting that it underscores the ancient city of Marsa Matrouh's role as a hub for foreign trade within the Mediterranean region, not only during the Roman period but across various historical epochs.

The excavation unveiled two catacomb-style tombs featuring 29 burial niches, along with glass tear vials, inscribed offering tables, and statues, including one depicting a man in a Roman toga and another representing a ram. Additionally, the mission discovered a fully intact Roman bathhouse, which includes reception halls, seating areas, bathing rooms, and systems for water storage and drainage.

In turn, Ayman Ashmawy, Head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Sector, elaborated that the tomb structures are equipped with staircases leading to vaulted burial chambers that are sealed with limestone blocks.

He further noted that the elaborate design of the tombs includes a false door flanked by intricately carved Doric columns, with an offering table positioned beneath it.