The project focuses on the temple of Athribis near Sohag, the last unexplored large temple complex of Greco-Roman Egypt. Consecrated by Ptolemy XII to the gods Min and Repit, the building, constructed entirely of limestone, features unique architectural features and an extraordinary history of reuse: from the Diocletian Palace (298 AD) to a Coptic dyeing workshop in the 5th century to its presumed use until the High Middle Ages. Over 1,000 previously unexplored inscriptions offer valuable insights into ancient Egyptian cults. Further inscriptions, some of which are buried, are to be documented after excavation. The project combines archaeological and epigraphic-philological research in order to comprehensively explore the history of construction, use and destruction, as well as religious practices.

Lead: Prof. Dr. Christian Leitz

Funding Period: 2021 - 2026