The oases of Kharga and Dakhla have been linked administratively from ancient times into the present. This chapter presents a study of the two main physical routes that connected the two oases: the Darb al-Ghubari and the Darb Ain Amur. Cairns, tracks, rock art, inscriptions, ceramics, and other small finds serve to identify the tracks and stopping points along the way. These paths, particularly the Darb Ain Amur, evolved over time, reflecting the changing environment and modes of transport that were used to make the journey from pharaonic to Roman times.

This chapter discusses the typology, quantification, production, and economic implications of the ceramic vessels called kegs or sigas from the site of Amheida (ancient Trimithis) in the Dakhleh Oasis. The quantification of the ceramics undertaken at the site during the excavation seasons of 2004-10 shows a high quantity of these locally produced vessels, which suggests an important ceramic production. Furthermore, their presence found along trade routes, namely on the road to the oasis of Farafra, points to their role in commercial activities and long-distance trade of oasis products, most likely olive oil, a commodity known to have been produced in the oasis whose value as cash crop was of great consequence to the overall oasis economy.