Egyptian-Chinese team unearths ancient residential complex at Memphis temple site

An Egyptian-Chinese archaeological team working at Memphis has uncovered a residential complex near the Temple of Sekhmet, one of Egypt's most significant religious sites. The findings provide rare insights into the domestic and economic activities that surrounded one of ancient Egypt's major temples.

Among the most notable discoveries are grape seeds and a limestone structure that researchers believe functioned as an ancient wine press. The presence of wine production facilities near the temple suggests organized agricultural and commercial activities were integral to the temple's operations and the sustenance of its inhabitants.

The excavation has also yielded inscribed stone blocks and fragments of statues, which contribute to understanding the architectural and religious dimensions of the site. These artefacts provide concrete evidence of the temple's significance and the craftsmanship involved in its construction and decoration.

The discoveries at Memphis add substantial new evidence to the archaeological record of ancient Egypt's religious centres. By revealing both the monumental and mundane aspects of temple life—from religious imagery to domestic quarters and food production—the findings offer a more complete picture of how these sacred complexes functioned as integrated communities.