CATACOMBS OF KOM EL SHOQAFA

The catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, takes its name after the mound of shards covering the area, which, included pottery and jars made of clay. The archeological site is located in Alexandria and was started in 2nd century AD for burial purposes. At that time, different Roman, Greek and Egyptian cultures were mixed and influenced each other.

As a result, statues found inside the catacombs were Egyptian and Roman style or Greek style. The place served as a burial chamber from the 2nd century to the 4th century. In 1900 the catacombs were rediscovered accidentally.

The legend says that a donkey fell into a shaft. Inside the shaft three sarcophagi were found, along with human and animal remains. It is unclear why the construction was expanded as it was believed to be intended for one family only.