Ancient temple discovery shed light on Egypt’s past

CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) – Egyptian archaeologists have uncovered significant ancient remains at a temple site in the Bahariya Oasis, revealing new details about the region’s religious and administrative importance over thousands of years.

The discoveries were made at the Al-Qasr Al-Qadim Temple in Egypt’s Western Desert by a team from the Supreme Council of Antiquities, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

Among the findings are the remains of a sandstone chamber, inscribed stone blocks bearing the names and royal titles of King Psamtik I, and a collection of archaeological artifacts dating to the 26th Dynasty, which ruled Egypt between 664 and 525 B.C.

Officials said the excavation has provided fresh evidence of the site’s historical significance and its role as an important center of administration and worship during different periods of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Researchers also uncovered the temple’s main hypostyle hall, which contains 16 sandstone columns, as well as adjoining chambers, shrines and hieroglyphic inscriptions dedicated to deities including Amun-Ra, Amunet and Khonsu.

According to antiquities officials, construction of the hall began during the reign of Psamtik I and was completed under the rule of Kings Apries and Amasis.

The excavation team additionally discovered a stone stela dating to the reign of Amenhotep II of the 18th Dynasty, indicating that the Bahariya Oasis maintained ties with the Egyptian state as early as the New Kingdom period.

Artifacts associated with the era of Ramesses II were also found at the site, suggesting that religious and urban activity existed there centuries before the construction phases linked to the 26th Dynasty.

Archaeologists say the discoveries contribute to a broader understanding of the strategic and cultural role played by the Bahariya Oasis throughout ancient Egyptian history.