Kellis

Ancient Kellis, known today as Ismant el-Kharab, was an important village in Upper Egypt during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. The site, located in the Dakhleh Oasis, was constructed primarily from mud bricks and spanned approximately 1,050 meters in length and 650 meters in width. Key features include the Temple of Tutu and three churches, notably the Small East Church, reputed as the oldest known church building in Egypt. The village thrived with small businesses such as weaving and pottery-making. Occupation began in the late Ptolemaic Period and continued until its abandonment after 392 CE. Archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, including wooden books and mummified remains, offering insights into the coexistence of Manichaean and Christian communities in the region.