New architectural elements unearthed at the ancient Qasr Temple in Bahariya Oasis

The Egyptian archaeological mission of the Supreme Council of Antiquities has uncovered new sections of the Ancient Qasr Temple at the Old Qasr site in Al-Qasr Village in the Bahariya Oasis. This discovery includes remains of a sandstone chamber, inscribed stone blocks bearing the names of King Psamtik I, and various artifacts. The temple, dating back to the 26th Dynasty, saw construction initiated under King Psamtik I and completed by Kings Wahibre and Ahmose II. Key findings include the temple’s main hypostyle hall with 16 sandstone columns, chambers, shrines, and hieroglyphic scenes with names of deities like Amun-Ra. A stone stela from King Amenhotep II's 18th Dynasty reign confirms the Bahariya Oasis's connection to the Egyptian state since the New Kingdom period, with additional artifacts from King Ramesses II indicating earlier activity. Previous excavations revealed the temple's name, “Ib-Set,” a statue of the god Thoth, a bronze statue of Osiris, and a shrine for the local governor Pa-di-Iza. Evidence also suggests continued use of the site during the Greek and Roman periods, including ostraca, Coptic and Latin texts, and installations for wine and oil production. The Old Qasr site served as the region’s ancient capital during the Late Period.