An Egyptian archaeological mission uncovered a mudbrick structure dating back to the 6th–7th centuries AD in the Monqabad area of Asyut governorate, the Egyptian Cabinet announced on Sunday. The two-level building, coated in white plaster, contained rare and symbolically rich Coptic wall paintings. Among them is a mural depicting repeated eye motifs with a central face, symbolising spiritual insight and wisdom — themes central to Coptic pastoral iconography. Another mural shows a man believed to be Saint Joseph carrying the infant Jesus, flanked by disciples and Coptic inscriptions. The upper level includes three parallel halls and two rooms, connected via a staircase to the lower level, which features three parallel monastic cells and two living chambers. Numerous artefacts were found, including pottery, stone items, and a tombstone inscribed in Coptic marking the name and death date of a saint. Other finds include amphorae bearing Coptic letters, a decorated stone frieze showing remains of a gazelle and lion, and multi-purpose pottery vessels. Located about 12 km northwest of the city of Asyut and 22 km from Asyut International Airport, the Monqabad archaeological area was first identified in 1965. Excavations began in 1976 and resumed in 2024 after intermittent seasons over several decades. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
