In a groundbreaking discovery, archaeologists have unearthed two ancient churches and a rare mural of Jesus Christ in Egypt’s Kharga Oasis. This remarkable find, made in the country’s Western Desert, sheds new light on the early days of Christianity in the region and its slow but steady rise during the Coptic period.
The announcement came from the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, which shared details of the excavation in late July. Located about 350 miles southwest of Cairo, Kharga Oasis has long been known for its ancient Christian relics—but this latest dig has revealed an entire settlement dating back over 1,600 years.
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Settlement
At the heart of this discovery is a large, well-preserved settlement made primarily of mudbrick. Archaeologists found multiple residential buildings, some still holding onto their original plastered walls. It paints a vivid picture of what life might have looked like in this desert community centuries ago.
Alongside the homes, the team discovered ancient ovens and large clay jars that were built directly into the ground—likely used for storing food. Additional finds included pottery shards with inscriptions, glass and stone artifacts, and even a number of burials.
Churches
The stars of the discovery, however, are the two early Coptic churches. Dating back to the 4th century A.D., they offer rare insight into Egypt’s transition from paganism to Christianity.
The first church was a sizable basilica constructed from mudbrick. Its layout included a large central hall with two side aisles—common in early Christian architecture. Despite its age, remnants of the structure still stand, hinting at its original grandeur.
The second church was smaller and more modest in design. It had a simple rectangular shape and was surrounded by seven external columns. Archaeologists also found remnants of service buildings near this church, possibly used for support functions related to religious activity.
One of the most striking elements discovered inside was a set of Coptic inscriptions still visible on the inner walls. These writings may offer further insight into the religious practices of the community that once thrived here.
Mural
Perhaps the most exciting—and mysterious—find is a mural depicting Jesus Christ healing a sick person. Such depictions from the early Christian period are rare, especially in Egypt. The mural adds a deeply human and spiritual element to the site, highlighting how the message of Christianity was portrayed and practiced in the desert.
Unfortunately, no photos of the mural have been released. Experts believe this is due to ongoing preservation efforts, as such artwork is incredibly delicate and can degrade quickly when exposed.
Significance
This site captures a moment in time when Egypt was undergoing a dramatic shift—from ancient pagan beliefs to the Christian faith that would later define its Coptic identity. It also underlines the importance of the Western Oases as hubs of not just survival but spiritual and social life.
The discovery at Kharga Oasis adds a new chapter to Egypt’s long religious history. These churches and artifacts help tell the story of a remote but vibrant community that played a key role in the spread of early Christianity.
As excavations continue, researchers hope to uncover even more insights into how people lived, worshiped, and evolved during one of the most transformative periods in Egyptian history.
FAQs
Where were the churches found?
At Kharga Oasis, 350 miles southwest of Cairo.
How old are the churches?
They date back over 1,600 years to the 4th century A.D.
What was found with the churches?
Residential ruins, pottery, jars, and burials.
What does the Jesus mural show?
Jesus healing a sick person—rare for that era.
Why is this discovery important?
It reveals early Christianity in Egypt’s desert.
