Egypt’s rich archaeological heritage continues to captivate the world as new discoveries have been unveiled at the Saqqara necropolis, located south of Cairo.
Archaeologists have recently uncovered two significant workshops dedicated to the embalming of both humans and animals, shedding light on ancient Egyptian burial practices. Additionally, the tombs of two priests have been unearthed, offering a glimpse into the lives of these revered individuals.
The first workshop discovered was used for mummifying animals, while the second workshop was exclusively dedicated to the embalming of humans. Within these workshops, archaeologists unearthed various artifacts, including beds, mummification tools, and materials used in the embalming process.
The find represents a significant breakthrough, as it marks the first time embalming workshops associated with temples have been discovered in Saqqara, rather than the previously known workshops linked to the god Apis in Memphis.
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Among the notable discoveries is the tomb of Ne Hesut Ba, a priest who served during the fifth dynasty of the old kingdom approximately 4,500 years ago. The presence of his tomb provides valuable insights into the religious and cultural practices of that era.
The excavation at Saqqara has also yielded an array of ancient artworks. Many statues, dating back 4,500 years to the old kingdom, showcase the mastery of artistic expression during that period.
Additionally, the team discovered artifacts from the new kingdom, dating back 3,300 years, including jewelry, accessories, and even remnants of cheese stored in pottery jars placed behind the deceased.
These recent archaeological finds play a vital role in Egypt’s efforts to revive its tourism industry, which suffered due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
With hopes of attracting 30 million tourists annually by 2028, Egypt has been emphasizing its cultural treasures, with the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza serving as a centerpiece for this tourism revival strategy.
As Egypt continues to unearth its ancient past, the world eagerly awaits further discoveries that shed light on the remarkable civilization that once thrived along the banks of the Nile.
