The Catacombs of Kom Esh-Shokafa
The rocky plateau of Kom el-Shuqafa sits between the ancient settlements of Karmuz and Minia el-Bassal. This area was once Rhakotis, Alexandria’s oldest neighborhood and a fishing port that existed before Alexander the Great. Today, it’s one of Alexandria’s most populated areas and the site where the first catacombs were discovered.
Discovery of the Catacombs
Mohammad Ali Pasha used this region to protect the city, and it was demolished in 1850. Excavations at Kom el-Shuqafa began in 1892, but no one found the catacombs until September 28, 1900. The story goes that a donkey pulling a cart accidentally fell into a hole, leading to one of the tombs. This tale is still shared with tourists today!
The truth is quite different from the famous story! Monsieur Es-Sayed Aly Gibarah, a stone miner from Alexandria, made the actual discovery. He found Kom el-Shuqafa, which dates back to the second century AD. The catacombs are the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt, built to hold over 300 notable individuals. After workers extracted subsoil water from the second level, Kom el-Shuqafa opened to the public in 1995.
Exploring the Catacombs
The catacombs have three floors carved out of solid rock. Ropes lowered the deceased down a central well in the spiral staircase. The entrance has two semicircular niches, each with a seat and a carved shell on top. This leads to a rotunda built around a central well and topped with a domed kiosk with eight pillars.
The Catacombs of Kom Esh-Shokafa: A Journey into Ancient Alexandria
The Catacombs of Kom Esh-Shokafa, located in Alexandria, Egypt, are a remarkable archaeological site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the burial practices and cultural influences of ancient civilizations. This underground necropolis, which dates back to the 2nd century AD shows a unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles and artistic motifs. This fusion reflects the multicultural nature of Alexandria during its heyday.
The name “Kom el-Shuqafa” translates to “Mound of Shards.” This refers to the fragments of pottery and terracotta that littered the area. Visitors left these remnants after bringing offerings of food and wine to the deceased. In 1900, a donkey stumbled upon the entrance, leading to the rediscovery and excavation of this extensive burial site. Although initially intended for a single family, people expanded the catacombs to accommodate a larger number of burials, ultimately serving as a public cemetery for Alexandria’s wealthy citizens.
Architectural Features
The Catacombs of Kom el-Shuqafa have three levels carved into solid rock. The design combines architectural elements from various cultures. The most notable feature is the Hall of Caracalla, which displays elaborate reliefs and sculptures of mythological and daily life scenes.
Burial Chambers and Art
A central shaft, supported by six pillars, leads to burial chambers containing sarcophagi and other funerary objects. Visitors descend a spiral staircase to enter the catacombs. Here, a series of chambers greets them, filled with intricate carvings and inscriptions. The walls display symbols and scenes that reflect ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife, while also incorporating Hellenistic and Roman artistic influences. This fusion of styles testifies to Alexandria’s role as a cultural melting pot during the Roman Empire.
Cultural Significance
The catacombs served not only as burial sites but also as places for commemorative feasts and rituals. Priests would perform offerings to honor the deceased, and the site became a focal point for the local community. The blending of different cultural practices within the catacombs illustrates the syncretism that characterized Alexandria, where diverse traditions coexisted and influenced one another.
The Catacombs of Kom Esh-Shokafa are one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages, highlighting their historical and architectural importance. They stand as a testament to the rich heritage of Alexandria, which was once a thriving center of trade, culture, and learning in the ancient world.
Preservation and Modern-Day Relevance
Today, the Catacombs of Kom Esh-Shokafa are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe who seek to explore this unique archaeological site. Preservation efforts have been undertaken to protect the catacombs and ensure that future generations can appreciate their historical significance. Authorities opened the site to the public in 1995, allowing for greater access to its wonders..
As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the catacombs continue to be a focal point for archaeological research and cultural heritage preservation. They provide invaluable insights into the burial practices, artistic expressions, and cultural interactions of ancient Alexandria, making them an essential destination for anyone interested in the history of Egypt and the Mediterranean region.
The Catacombs of Kom Esh-Shokafa are not just a burial site; they are a window into the past, revealing the complexities of life and death in ancient Alexandria. With their stunning architecture and rich cultural significance, the catacombs remain a vital part of Egypt’s historical narrative, inviting exploration and reflection on the enduring legacy of one of the world’s greatest ancient cities.
