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Egypt Today
3 days ago
- General
- Egypt Today
Ancient Structure and Coptic Art Unearthed in Upper Egypt
In a remarkable archaeological discovery, an Egyptian mission working in the Monqabad area in Asyut has uncovered the remains of a mudbrick building dating back to the 6th–7th century AD. The announcement comes as part of the Supreme Council of Antiquities' ongoing efforts to support excavations across the country, under the directives of Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, revealed that the building features two levels coated in white plaster. Inside, archaeologists found a series of rare and important wall paintings. One striking mural features repeated eye motifs centered around a human face—a symbolic representation in Coptic art often interpreted as inner spiritual insight and divine awareness. Another mural shows the image of a man carrying a child, likely Saint Joseph holding the Christ Child, flanked by disciples and Coptic inscriptions. Dr. Gamal Mostafa, Head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector, added that the first level of the structure includes three parallel halls followed by two rooms. A staircase leads to a lower level with three parallel cells and two living quarters. Numerous artifacts were uncovered, including Coptic-inscribed tombstones, amphorae bearing Coptic letters, and a stone frieze adorned with animal motifs of a gazelle and a lion. Various multi-use pottery vessels were also found. According to Mahmoud Mohamed, Director of Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities in East Asyut, excavation and mural studies are ongoing to unravel the building's function and significance further. Monqabad is about 12 kilometers northwest of Asyut City and roughly 22 kilometers from Asyut International Airport. The site was initially discovered in 1965, with intermittent excavation seasons beginning in 1976 and continuing through 2010, before resuming with the current 2024 mission.


CTV News
4 days ago
- General
- CTV News
Egyptian archeologists discover three tombs in Luxor
In this undated photo, hieroglyphs are revealed in the three new graves of senior statesmen found in the Dra' Abu al-Naga necropolis area in Luxor, Egypt. (Egypt Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities via AP) CAIRO — Egypt unveiled three new tombs of prominent statesman in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis in Luxor, officials said Monday. Egyptian archeologists have discovered tombs dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550–1070 B.C.) and identified the names and titles of their owners through inscriptions found within, according to a statement by the tourism and antiquities ministry. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in the statement that further study of other tombs' inscriptions is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the tombs' owners. The ministry released pictures of items discovered in the tombs, including artifacts and statues. The discovery comes in the lead-up to the highly anticipated full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected this summer, though a final official date is yet to be confirmed. The museum will showcase more than 100,000 artifacts from Egypt's rich ancient heritage. Graves The Egyptian archeological mission working in the Abu El-Naga arm area in the western part of Luxor has been able to unearth three graves from the modern state era. (Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities) One of the tombs discovered in Luxor on Monday belonged to Amum-em-Ipet, from the Ramesside period, who worked in the estate of Amun. His tomb was mostly destroyed and what remained were depictions of the funeral furniture carriers and a banquet. Amum-em-Ipet's tomb begins with a small courtyard leading to an entrance and then a square hall ending with a niche, whose western wall was destroyed. The other tombs date back to the 18th Dynasty and include one belonging to a man named Baki, who served as a supervisor of the grain silo. Another tomb contains the burial of an individual named 'S,' who held multiple roles — he was a supervisor at the Temple of Amun in the oasis, a writer and the mayor of the northern oases. Baki's tomb has a courtyard leading to the main entrance of the tomb as well as a long corridor-like courtyard. It also has a transverse hall leading to another longitudinal hall that leads up to an unfinished chamber that contains a burial well. Meanwhile, the other tomb that belongs to 'S' has a small courtyard with a well, the tomb's main entrance, and a transverse hall that leads to an incomplete longitudinal hall. Egyptian archeological discoveries The minister of Tourism and Archeological affirmed the discovery was made by pure Egyptian hands. (Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities) Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi described the discovery as a significant scientific and archeological achievement, noting that it is one of the areas poised to greatly boost cultural tourism and attract more visitors with an interest in Egypt's rich heritage. In January, Egypt made several discoveries near the famed city of Luxor, including ancient rock-cut tombs and burial shafts dating back 3,600 years. They were unearthed at the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut's funerary temple at Deir al-Bahri on the Nile's West Bank. Late last year, Egyptian and American archeologists excavated an ancient tomb with 11 sealed burials near Luxor. The tomb, which dates to the Middle Kingdom, was found in the South Asasif necropolis, next to the Temple of Hatshepsut. Fatma Khaled, The Associated Press


Emirates 24/7
5 days ago
- Emirates 24/7
3 New Kingdom tombs unearthed in Luxor
An Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered three tombs dating back to the New Kingdom, one of ancient Egyptian history's most celebrated eras, during excavation work at the necropolis of Dra Abul-Naga on the West Bank of Luxor. The discovery offers insight into the lives of high-ranking officials who once served in temples and administrative positions across ancient Egypt. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy hailed the find as 'a significant scientific and cultural accomplishment that strengthens Egypt's status on the global cultural tourism map.' He stressed the importance of this discovery and its potential to attract cultural tourism and deepen appreciation for Egypt's unparalleled historical heritage. 'These tombs are not just burial chambers,' he said, describing them as windows into the lives, roles, and beliefs of key figures in our ancient society. 'The fact that this discovery was made entirely by Egyptian hands reflects the exceptional capabilities of our archaeological teams,' he stated. Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) Secretary-General Mohamed Ismail Khaled inspected the tombs during a brief visit to the site. Khaled confirmed that all three tombs belong to the New Kingdom. Inscriptions found within the burial chambers enabled the initial identification of the tomb owners. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.


Zawya
5 days ago
- General
- Zawya
Egypt discovers three New Kingdom tombs in Luxor's Dra' Abu El-Naga
The Egyptian archaeological mission working at Dra' Abu El-Naga on Luxor's west bank has uncovered three tombs dating back to Egypt's New Kingdom era, marking a significant discovery during the current excavation season. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy described the find as a major scientific and archaeological milestone. He highlighted its importance in enhancing Egypt's international standing as a hub for cultural tourism and expressed confidence that the tombs would attract increased interest, particularly from travellers drawn to Egypt's rich ancient heritage. Fathy also praised the fact that the discovery was made entirely by Egyptian archaeologists, calling it a testament to the growing capabilities and expertise of national excavation teams. During a site visit, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mohamed Ismail Khaled confirmed that the tombs all date to the New Kingdom period. Inscriptions found within the burial chambers have revealed the names and titles of the tombs' occupants, and further cleaning and documentation are underway to uncover additional details. Khaled noted that a comprehensive scientific study and formal publication of the discovery are planned. Mohamed Abdel-Badei, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, explained that one of the tombs belonged to a man named Amun-em-Ipet, who lived during the Ramesside period and served in the temple or estate of Amun. Although large portions of the tomb's decoration have been damaged or lost, surviving scenes depict offerings, funerary furniture being carried, and a banquet—classic elements of New Kingdom funerary art. The second tomb belonged to a man named Baki, who held the title of supervisor of the grain silo during the 18th Dynasty. The third tomb, also from the 18th Dynasty, belonged to a man identified only as S, who served as supervisor of Amun's temple in the oases, mayor of the northern oases, and scribe—roles that suggest significant administrative authority. Abdel-Ghaffar Wagdy, Director General of Luxor Antiquities and head of the mission, provided details on the tomb architecture. The tomb of Amun-em-Ipet features a small courtyard leading to a square hall that ends in a niche; this niche was later altered when the western wall was breached to create an additional hall, likely during a secondary reuse of the tomb. Baki's tomb includes an elongated courtyard resembling a corridor, followed by another open space that leads into the main entrance. Inside, a transverse hall opens into a longitudinal hall ending with an unfinished chapel and burial shaft. The tomb of S has a simpler design, beginning with a small courtyard and burial shaft, followed by a transverse hall that connects to an unfinished longitudinal hall. This discovery adds valuable insight into the roles and lives of officials during the New Kingdom and reinforces the importance of Luxor as a continuing source of archaeological revelations. It also highlights the growing success of Egyptian-led missions in uncovering and preserving the country's ancient heritage for both scholarly and public audiences. © 2024 Daily News Egypt. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (


The Advertiser
5 days ago
- General
- The Advertiser
Egyptian archaeologists discover three tombs in Luxor
Egypt has unveiled three new tombs of prominent statesman in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis in Luxor, officials say. Egyptian archaeologists have discovered tombs dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550-1070 BC) and identified the names and titles of their owners through inscriptions found within, according to a statement by the tourism and antiquities ministry on Monday. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in the statement that further study of other tombs' inscriptions is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the tombs' owners. The ministry released pictures of items discovered in the tombs, including artefacts and statues. The discovery comes in the lead-up to the highly anticipated full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected this summer, though a final official date is yet to be confirmed. The museum will showcase more than 100,000 artefacts from Egypt's rich ancient heritage. One of the tombs discovered in Luxor on Monday belonged to Amum-em-Ipet, from the Ramesside period, who worked in the estate of Amun. His tomb was mostly destroyed and what remained were depictions of the funeral furniture carriers and a banquet. Amun-Im-Ipet's tomb begins with a small courtyard leading to an entrance and then a square hall ending with a niche, whose western wall was destroyed. The other tombs date back to the 18th Dynasty and include one belonging to a man named Baki, who served as a supervisor of the grain silo. Another tomb contains the burial of an individual named "S", who held multiple roles - he was a supervisor at the Temple of Amun in the oasis, a writer and the mayor of the northern oases. Baki's tomb has a courtyard leading to the main entrance of the tomb as well as a long corridor-like courtyard. It also has a transverse hall leading to another longitudinal hall that leads up to an unfinished chamber that contains a burial well. Meanwhile, the other tomb that belongs to "S" has a small courtyard with a well, the tomb's main entrance, and a transverse hall that leads to an incomplete longitudinal hall. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi described the discovery as a significant scientific and archaeological achievement, noting that it is one of the areas poised to greatly boost cultural tourism and attract more visitors with an interest in Egypt's rich heritage. In January, Egypt made several discoveries near the famed city of Luxor, including ancient rock-cut tombs and burial shafts dating back 3600 years. They were unearthed at the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut's funerary temple at Deir al-Bahri on the Nile's West Bank. Late last year, Egyptian and American archaeologists excavated an ancient tomb with 11 sealed burials near Luxor. The tomb, which dates to the Middle Kingdom, was found in the South Asasif necropolis, next to the Temple of Hatshepsut. Egypt has unveiled three new tombs of prominent statesman in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis in Luxor, officials say. Egyptian archaeologists have discovered tombs dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550-1070 BC) and identified the names and titles of their owners through inscriptions found within, according to a statement by the tourism and antiquities ministry on Monday. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in the statement that further study of other tombs' inscriptions is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the tombs' owners. The ministry released pictures of items discovered in the tombs, including artefacts and statues. The discovery comes in the lead-up to the highly anticipated full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected this summer, though a final official date is yet to be confirmed. The museum will showcase more than 100,000 artefacts from Egypt's rich ancient heritage. One of the tombs discovered in Luxor on Monday belonged to Amum-em-Ipet, from the Ramesside period, who worked in the estate of Amun. His tomb was mostly destroyed and what remained were depictions of the funeral furniture carriers and a banquet. Amun-Im-Ipet's tomb begins with a small courtyard leading to an entrance and then a square hall ending with a niche, whose western wall was destroyed. The other tombs date back to the 18th Dynasty and include one belonging to a man named Baki, who served as a supervisor of the grain silo. Another tomb contains the burial of an individual named "S", who held multiple roles - he was a supervisor at the Temple of Amun in the oasis, a writer and the mayor of the northern oases. Baki's tomb has a courtyard leading to the main entrance of the tomb as well as a long corridor-like courtyard. It also has a transverse hall leading to another longitudinal hall that leads up to an unfinished chamber that contains a burial well. Meanwhile, the other tomb that belongs to "S" has a small courtyard with a well, the tomb's main entrance, and a transverse hall that leads to an incomplete longitudinal hall. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi described the discovery as a significant scientific and archaeological achievement, noting that it is one of the areas poised to greatly boost cultural tourism and attract more visitors with an interest in Egypt's rich heritage. In January, Egypt made several discoveries near the famed city of Luxor, including ancient rock-cut tombs and burial shafts dating back 3600 years. They were unearthed at the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut's funerary temple at Deir al-Bahri on the Nile's West Bank. Late last year, Egyptian and American archaeologists excavated an ancient tomb with 11 sealed burials near Luxor. The tomb, which dates to the Middle Kingdom, was found in the South Asasif necropolis, next to the Temple of Hatshepsut. Egypt has unveiled three new tombs of prominent statesman in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis in Luxor, officials say. Egyptian archaeologists have discovered tombs dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550-1070 BC) and identified the names and titles of their owners through inscriptions found within, according to a statement by the tourism and antiquities ministry on Monday. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in the statement that further study of other tombs' inscriptions is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the tombs' owners. The ministry released pictures of items discovered in the tombs, including artefacts and statues. The discovery comes in the lead-up to the highly anticipated full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected this summer, though a final official date is yet to be confirmed. The museum will showcase more than 100,000 artefacts from Egypt's rich ancient heritage. One of the tombs discovered in Luxor on Monday belonged to Amum-em-Ipet, from the Ramesside period, who worked in the estate of Amun. His tomb was mostly destroyed and what remained were depictions of the funeral furniture carriers and a banquet. Amun-Im-Ipet's tomb begins with a small courtyard leading to an entrance and then a square hall ending with a niche, whose western wall was destroyed. The other tombs date back to the 18th Dynasty and include one belonging to a man named Baki, who served as a supervisor of the grain silo. Another tomb contains the burial of an individual named "S", who held multiple roles - he was a supervisor at the Temple of Amun in the oasis, a writer and the mayor of the northern oases. Baki's tomb has a courtyard leading to the main entrance of the tomb as well as a long corridor-like courtyard. It also has a transverse hall leading to another longitudinal hall that leads up to an unfinished chamber that contains a burial well. Meanwhile, the other tomb that belongs to "S" has a small courtyard with a well, the tomb's main entrance, and a transverse hall that leads to an incomplete longitudinal hall. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi described the discovery as a significant scientific and archaeological achievement, noting that it is one of the areas poised to greatly boost cultural tourism and attract more visitors with an interest in Egypt's rich heritage. In January, Egypt made several discoveries near the famed city of Luxor, including ancient rock-cut tombs and burial shafts dating back 3600 years. They were unearthed at the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut's funerary temple at Deir al-Bahri on the Nile's West Bank. Late last year, Egyptian and American archaeologists excavated an ancient tomb with 11 sealed burials near Luxor. The tomb, which dates to the Middle Kingdom, was found in the South Asasif necropolis, next to the Temple of Hatshepsut. Egypt has unveiled three new tombs of prominent statesman in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis in Luxor, officials say. Egyptian archaeologists have discovered tombs dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550-1070 BC) and identified the names and titles of their owners through inscriptions found within, according to a statement by the tourism and antiquities ministry on Monday. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in the statement that further study of other tombs' inscriptions is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the tombs' owners. The ministry released pictures of items discovered in the tombs, including artefacts and statues. The discovery comes in the lead-up to the highly anticipated full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected this summer, though a final official date is yet to be confirmed. The museum will showcase more than 100,000 artefacts from Egypt's rich ancient heritage. One of the tombs discovered in Luxor on Monday belonged to Amum-em-Ipet, from the Ramesside period, who worked in the estate of Amun. His tomb was mostly destroyed and what remained were depictions of the funeral furniture carriers and a banquet. Amun-Im-Ipet's tomb begins with a small courtyard leading to an entrance and then a square hall ending with a niche, whose western wall was destroyed. The other tombs date back to the 18th Dynasty and include one belonging to a man named Baki, who served as a supervisor of the grain silo. Another tomb contains the burial of an individual named "S", who held multiple roles - he was a supervisor at the Temple of Amun in the oasis, a writer and the mayor of the northern oases. Baki's tomb has a courtyard leading to the main entrance of the tomb as well as a long corridor-like courtyard. It also has a transverse hall leading to another longitudinal hall that leads up to an unfinished chamber that contains a burial well. Meanwhile, the other tomb that belongs to "S" has a small courtyard with a well, the tomb's main entrance, and a transverse hall that leads to an incomplete longitudinal hall. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi described the discovery as a significant scientific and archaeological achievement, noting that it is one of the areas poised to greatly boost cultural tourism and attract more visitors with an interest in Egypt's rich heritage. In January, Egypt made several discoveries near the famed city of Luxor, including ancient rock-cut tombs and burial shafts dating back 3600 years. They were unearthed at the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut's funerary temple at Deir al-Bahri on the Nile's West Bank. Late last year, Egyptian and American archaeologists excavated an ancient tomb with 11 sealed burials near Luxor. The tomb, which dates to the Middle Kingdom, was found in the South Asasif necropolis, next to the Temple of Hatshepsut.