The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, meaning “Mound of Shards” in Arabic, is a significant archaeological site nestled in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages, these catacombs offer a glimpse into the complex blend of Pharaonic, Greek, and Roman cultures that shaped ancient Alexandria.
A Fusion of Cultures and Eras
The catacombs, a necropolis dating back to the 2nd century AD, showcase a remarkable blend of artistic styles and religious traditions. The site features tombs, statues, and other archaeological treasures that reflect the Pharaonic funerary practices intertwined with Hellenistic and Roman influences. This cultural fusion is evident in the statues, where Egyptian artistic styles are paired with Roman clothing and hairstyles, creating a unique visual narrative of Alexandria’s cosmopolitan heritage.
One of the most striking aspects of the catacombs is the circular staircase, which spirals down into the tombs carved into the bedrock during the reign of the Antonine emperors. This staircase was once used to transport the bodies of the deceased deep into the burial chambers.
The Rediscovery and Expansion
Though initially constructed as a family tomb, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa expanded beyond its original purpose. Used as a burial site from the 2nd to the 4th century AD, the catacombs were lost to history until their rediscovery in 1900 when a donkey accidentally fell into the access shaft, unearthing one of Egypt’s most significant archaeological sites.
Among the discoveries were three sarcophagi and numerous human and animal remains, raising questions about why the site was extended to house so many individuals. One theory suggests that the catacombs were used for elite burials, possibly for members of the Roman and Egyptian nobility.
The Hall of Caracalla
A notable section of the catacombs is the Hall of Caracalla, which contains the remains of horses believed to have belonged to Emperor Caracalla. These equine tombs, created in 215 AD, further highlight the unique blend of cultural practices, as burial traditions extended beyond humans to animals held in high esteem.
Kom El Shoqafa: The Mound of Shards
The name “Kom El Shoqafa” originates from the heaps of broken terracotta shards found at the site. These shards were remnants of the jars and containers left by visitors who brought food and wine to consume during their visits to the tombs. Superstition or practicality likely prevented them from returning the containers home, so they shattered them at the site, creating the mound that gave the catacombs their name.
The Layout of the Catacombs
The catacombs, located in Alexandria’s western necropolis, are spread across three levels cut into solid rock. The third level was submerged underwater until recent restorations allowed for further exploration. A six-pillared central shaft opens off the vestibule at the heart of the structure. To the left, visitors can find a triclinium— a banquet hall where families and friends gather to honor the deceased. These gatherings took place both during the burial and on commemorative visits.
Visitors can access the first level via a breach in the rotunda wall. This entrance leads directly to the Hall of Caracalla, where the bones of horses and humans were discovered, adding to the mystery and significance of the site.
The Principal Tomb Chamber
At the front of the main tomb chamber stands a temple-like façade, featuring two columns adorned with papyrus, lotus, and acanthus leaves, all topped by an architrave. This structure is crowned with a relief of a winged sun-disk flanked by Horus falcons, a symbol of protection in ancient Egyptian mythology.
Guarding the entrance to the inner tomb are two Agathodaemons, serpents symbolic of good fortune. These snakes wear the Roman Caduceus, the Greek Thyrsus, and the Egyptian Pschent, blending elements from three distinct cultures. Each serpent is also topped with a shield bearing the image of Medusa, a symbol of power and protection.
Within the chamber, the walls are adorned with figures of a man and a woman, blending Egyptian and Roman styles. The man stands rigid in a traditional Egyptian pose, while his head is carved in the lifelike style of Greek art. The woman, similarly posed, features a Roman hairstyle, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Alexandria during this era.
Conclusion
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa are a testament to the extraordinary blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures that flourished in Alexandria. From the unique architectural features to the mysterious remains found within, these catacombs provide a rare insight into the ancient world, making them an essential destination for anyone interested in the history of Egypt.
