CAIRO (AP) – Egypt recently announced the discovery of three significant tombs belonging to prominent statesmen in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis located in Luxor. These tombs, dating back to the New Kingdom period from 1550 to 1070 B.C., were unearthed by Egyptian archaeologists who identified the names and titles of their owners through inscriptions found within the tombs. The statement from the tourism and antiquities ministry underscores the importance of these findings for understanding Egypt's ancient history.
Mohamed Ismail Khaled, the secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that further analysis of additional tomb inscriptions is necessary to deepen the understanding of the tomb owners' backgrounds and historical significance. The ministry has also released photographs showcasing various artifacts and statues discovered alongside the tombs.
This significant discovery arrives ahead of the anticipated inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to open later in the summer, although no official date has been confirmed yet. The museum is expected to present over 100,000 artifacts highlighting Egypt’s rich historical legacy.
One of the notable tombs found belongs to Amum-em-Ipet, a figure from the Ramesside period who served in the estate of Amun. However, his tomb was largely destroyed, with only vivid depictions of funeral furniture carriers and a banquet remaining. The architectural layout of Amum-em-Ipet's tomb includes a small courtyard, an entrance, a square hall, and a destroyed western wall niche.
The other two tombs discovered date back to the 18th Dynasty. One tomb belonged to a man named Baki, known for his role as a supervisor of the grain silo. Baki's tomb features a courtyard leading to its main entrance and incorporates a long corridor-like courtyard, along with a transverse hall leading to a longitudinal hall that ends in an unfinished chamber containing a burial well.
The second tomb belongs to an individual referred to as “S,” who held multiple prestigious roles, such as a supervisor at the Temple of Amun in the oasis, a writer, and the mayor of the northern oases. This tomb includes a small courtyard featuring a well, the main entrance, and a transverse hall that leads to an incomplete longitudinal hall.
Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathi, characterized this discovery as a major scientific and archaeological accomplishment. He emphasized its potential to significantly enhance cultural tourism and pique the interest of visitors drawn to Egypt's ancient heritage.
Earlier this year, in January, Egypt made several archaeological discoveries near Luxor, which included ancient rock-cut tombs and burial shafts that are approximately 3,600 years old. These findings were made along the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut’s funerary temple situated at Deir al-Bahri on the West Bank of the Nile.
Moreover, late last year, a collaboration between Egyptian and American archaeologists led to the excavation of an ancient tomb comprising 11 sealed burials, also in close proximity to Luxor. This particular tomb, which dates back to the Middle Kingdom, was excavated within the South Asasif necropolis adjacent to the Temple of Hatshepsut.
