Polish Archaeology in the Mediterranean (18.2006(2008))

MARINA EL-ALAMEIN

EGYPT

WESTERN SET OF TRENCHES (TR05+07, 06, 08, 09, 10)

The cluster of units around a cistern in the
middle of the surveyed area proved to be in
effect part of a big complex that extended
all the way to the north of the surveyed
area. It also contained a big exedra opening
to the east, the function of which cannot be
ascertained at present except that it may
have had some connection with water use.
Further west of this feature, a double set of
walls of a thickness up to 1.50 m not
encountered in Marina so far (to the
present author's knowledge) cut across the
surveyed area, following a N-S orientation
(Tr05+Tr07). These walls proved to be
connected with the building, of which the

cistern was a part of in a later stage of its
use (Tr06) [Fig. 12].
The cistern functioned in association
with a paved area used for some household
activities, a small kitchen area perhaps and
storage space (perhaps open courtyard)
where a bin containing three amphorae, one
with dipinti and another one a typical
Rhodian import of the 1st century AD, was
discovered [Fig. 13]· A small limestone altar
was also discovered here. The building
obviously extended to the north, into the
side of the 'cut1, where an ancient wall was
found to touch a World War II trench built
practically on top of it [Fig. 14]· (Indeed,


Fig. 14 ■ World War II structure resting on top of ruined walls from the Roman age
(Photo I. Zych, courtesy MASP ARCE/EAP)

97