Tombs of Coptic anchorites at the site of the Temple of Hatshepsut in Deir el-Bahari

Abstract

Early Coptic tombs, two at least, were discovered on the Upper Terrace of the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari. The orientation of the tombs is north–south, which is the typical orientation of early Christian tombs. Christian activity at Deir el-Bahari is attested in contexts starting from the 4th century, predating the establishment of the Monastery of St Phoibammon in the 6th century.

Keywords

• Theban Necropolis
• Deir el-Bahari
• Temple of Hatshepsut
• rock-cut tomb
• Coptic