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Egypt

Kellia

Extensive monastic community in Egyptian desert

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Kellia, also known as 'the Cells,' was a significant Egyptian Christian monastic community founded in 338 CE by Saint Amun under the guidance of Saint Anthony. Located in the Nitrian Desert south of Alexandria, the site spanned over 125 square kilometers and was designed for advanced monks who sought a semi-anchoritic lifestyle away from the bustling Nitria. The monastic community flourished between the 5th and 6th centuries, eventually declining in the 7th and 8th centuries due to doctrinal disputes and desert raids. Archaeological excavations have revealed over 1500 structures, including individual cells, communal churches, and inscriptions. By the 9th century, Kellia was abandoned, leaving behind an archaeological record of its once-thriving monastic life.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Kellia

FileKellia.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Storage Structures

Vaults

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches

Artistic and Decorative Features

GraffitiInscriptions

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Houses

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Egypt
Source
Wikipedia