Exploring Dakhla Oasis
The Dakhla Oasis is an 80-kilometer-long and 25-kilometer-wide oasis in Egypt’s New Valley Governorate. It is one of the Great Sahara Desert‘s largest oases. The oasis contains around 17 major villages, including Mut, its capital. The village of Rashda is its wealthiest village. Travelers can find several small hotels in Dakhla Oasis. The businessman Naguib Sawiris owns the village of Al-Tarfa, which was built in the traditional style.
Dakhla Oasis Archaeological Monuments
The Dakhla Oasis is a treasure trove of archaeological sites, offering a glimpse into the area’s long and varied history. Here are some of its most notable monuments:
Mut:
As the capital of the Dakhla Oasis, Mut holds historical significance. It features terraced gardens that archaeologists trace back to the sixth century BC, providing a fascinating look at ancient agricultural practices in the desert.
Balat and Bashandi Villages:
These two pharaonic villages offer a rich tapestry of history. The village of Balat is home to terraced tombs that also date to the sixth century BC. Located 40 kilometers east of Mut, Bashandi stands out for its blend of different historical periods. Here, visitors can find an Islamic cemetery alongside a number of Roman tombs. Among these, the Kitnes Cemetery is particularly famous for its well-preserved Roman-era burials. A Greek cemetery can also be found in Bashandi, highlighting the diverse cultures that once inhabited the oasis.
Deir El-Hagar Temple:
This well-preserved Roman-era temple is a testament to the religious life of the time. The temple was built to honor the god Amun and his wife, Mut. Intricate inscriptions and reliefs on its walls depict the religious ceremonies and beliefs that were central to the community.
Al-Qasr Islamic Village:
This village offers a unique look at the Islamic history of the Dakhla Oasis. Its most prominent feature is a three-story wooden minaret that dates back to the Ayyubid dynasty. The village also preserves wooden lintels with Quranic texts etched into them, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship and religious devotion of its builders.
Mut Ethnographic Museum:
The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the oasis’s main city. It showcases a wide array of products and everyday items used by residents during the Islamic era. This collection helps visitors understand the social structure, customs, and daily life of the community.
Gebel Al Muzakhraf (The Ornate Hill):
This hill derives its name from two stunningly decorated tombs found there. One belongs to Pelosis, and the other belongs to Petosiris. The elaborate decorations offer valuable insights into the artistic styles and burial customs of the period. A large number of family tombs can also be found on this hill, suggesting it was an important burial ground for the local elite
Wells and Springs
The Dakhla Oasis has many wells and springs. These are its sole and primary water source. The temperature of the Mut wells can reach 43 degrees Celsius, and their depth can exceed 1,224 meters. A circular swimming pool and a few rest cottages for tourists are also in the area. Each village also has its own spring, which residents use primarily for irrigation. The oasis’s residents raise cows and goats.
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