Recent study reveals what is left of emerald mines in the eastern desert of Egypt

CAIRO – 11 May 2022: A recent study presented a topographical discovery of the emerald mines in the eastern desert of Egypt, consisting of dozens of closed rooms, tunnels and sacred places dating back to the Greco-Roman and Byzantine periods.

Mines produce the mystic green emerald, which was one of the sacred stones linked to divine powers in the ancient world. It was highly valued by the Roman elite and was equally important to the nomads, according to the ancient-origins website.

Archaeological discoveries indicate that nomadic hunters and traders controlled the Roman emerald mines before the collapse of the Roman Empire. This study was conducted by researchers from the Polish Center for Mediterranean Archeology at the University of Warsaw, Poland.

The new study shows how the research team found evidence of "funeral rites and social organization of local workers" and surveyed 40 meters below the surface. This revealed the presence of small settlements, tombs, cliffs, paths, work areas, and watchtowers.

In total, the survey revealed eleven new archaeological sites.