Recently, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi made a big announcement. Yes, on Tuesday, August 19, they announced how a team of archaeologists had made a discovery. This discovery was made at the site of an ancient monastery, which is on the Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. They discovered a cross, which is moulded on the stucco plaque! Here’s all you need to know about the big discovery from the monastery
Ancient Cross Discovered On Sir Bani Yas Island
The discovery of the cross from the ancient monastery on Sir Bani Yas Island is a big deal. And this discovery comes at a time when the first major excavation has been made on the island after over 30 years. In fact, it was in January 2025 that a new fieldwork was launched by DCT – Abu Dhabi on Sir Bani Yas Island, where the cross was discovered.
It is believed that this object was used by monks for spiritual contemplation. As revealed in a report by the Khaleej Times, the style of the cross draws similarities with finds from Iraq and Kuwait. So, it is now being linked to the church of the East, which sees its origins in ancient Iraq.
More About The Ancient Monastic Complex
Talking about the monastic complex, the seventh – eighth century Christian monastery was first discovered in 1992. This was discovered by the Abu Dhabi Islands Archaeological Survey, under the direction of the UAE Leadership. And the excavation had uncovered a church and a monastic complex. They are currently being interpreted as separate spaces. It is believed that the group of courtyard houses, which is near the monastery, is where early Christian monks would live in retreat.
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Similar To Other Sites In The Region
For those who are wondering, Sir Bani Yas Island’s group of churches and monasteries emerged across the region during the same period. Moreover, it seems that similar sites are found in Umm al Quwwain, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. As such, the spread of Christianity declined between the fourth and sixth centuries. Today, the church and the monastery are set in a nature reserve, which is home to gazelles and hyrax.
This big discovery shows that a multi-faith church, which is inspired by an ancient site, has also been built adjacent to a visitor centre. As the excavation continues, it might just be integrated into the wider visitor trail that would connect to the island’s cultural landmark
Cover Image Courtesy: X/dctabudhabi