Historical Manuscripts Seized from Smugglers at Cairo Intl Airport

Authorities at Cairo International Airport have seized 13 archaeological manuscripts belonging to the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, which were held by someone trying to smuggle them abroad.

The artefacts included three papyrus scrolls which were found in poor condition and a metal coin molded with a tughra from the Ottoman era. The three manuscripts included the prayers for Great Lent in Coptic and in Arabic, supplications beginning with the name of the Prophet Muhammad, and another one of the Holy Psalmody.

The archaeological unit in Terminal 1 and Cairo Airport Police were made aware of the smuggling operation when they received a report from the Passenger Security Police  who suspected that a passenger was in possession of some artefacts. The items are currently being handed over to the Coptic Museum for restoration and maintenance.