The Discovery of Byzantine Laura of St Mary the Egyptian in Site of Jesus Baptism

Recent excavations at the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas)' have uncovered unique archaeological remains linked to St. Mary of Egypt, a revered figure in early Christianity. These discoveries, located near the Church of John the Baptist and close to the eastern bank of the Jordan River, provide tangible evidence of her monastic life and death in this region. The findings shed light on the Byzantine Laura (a monastic community) associated with St. Mary, offering insights into the evolution of early Christian monasticism and its architectural expression. This study bridges archaeological evidence with historical narratives, enhancing our understanding of the site's significance during the formative period of Christianity.

Waheeb, M. (2019). The Discovery of Byzantine Laura of St Mary the Egyptian in Site of Jesus Baptism. Annals of Archaeology, 2(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.22259/2639-3662.0201001