Friday March 29th, 2024
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'One of a Kind' Ancient Egyptian Tomb Discovered in Saqqara

The 4,400 year old tomb has been described as one of the most exciting discoveries in the "last few decades."

Staff Writer

In what is being touted as one of the most exciting archaeological discoveries in decades, an exceptionally well-preserved Ancient Egyptian tomb dating back more than 4,400 years has been unearthed in the pyramid complex of Saqqara, reports BBC.

The private tomb belonged to a high official priest named 'Wahtye' who lived in the fifth dynasty under the reign of King Neferirkare. Measuring in at 10 meters long, three meters wide and just under three meters high, the tomb houses 24 colourful statues representing the cleric and his family. 

Secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mostafa Waziri, hailed the discovery for what good condition it remains in, while expecting more discoveries to be made once excavation begins, particularly in regards to one of the five shafts, which was unsealed and empty.

“I can imagine that all of the objects can be found in this area,' Waziri said. "This shaft should lead to a coffin or a sarcophagus of the owner of the tomb.”

Saqqara once served as the burial grounds for Ancient Egypt's capital, Memphis, with the oldest complete stone complex known in history, the Djoser Step Pyramid, having been built there during the third Dynasty. 

Main Image from Reuters