Coptic Texts from Western Thebes

Excavations at Western Thebes, following the relinquishment of the Da'yr al-Bahari concession by the Egypt Exploration Fund, uncovered over a thousand inscribed pieces under the direction of Herbert E. Winlock. These texts, though poorly preserved compared to those salvaged by Naville, suggest they were previously discarded due to their condition. Subsequent excavations revealed Christian settlements and monasteries, including Coptic ostraca from the University of Pennsylvania's digs, which remain unpublished. The study highlights the historical significance of Western Thebes as a center for Christian monasticism in Upper Egypt, providing insights into its cultural and religious landscape during this period.

Gabra, G., & Takla, H. N. (2010). Coptic Texts from Western Thebes. Christianity and Monasticism in Upper Egypt, 63–77. https://doi.org/10.5743/cairo/9789774163111.003.0007