Egypt uncovers 3 New Kingdom tombs at Saqqara
Archaeologists say the newly discovered rock-cut tombs offer fresh insights into senior officials and society during Egypt’s 18th Dynasty
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egyptian archaeologists have discovered three rock-cut tombs dating to the New Kingdom period at the Bubasteion necropolis in Saqqara, a find officials say will deepen understanding of ancient Egyptian society during the 18th Dynasty.
The tombs, located in Giza Governorate south of Cairo, were uncovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission after months of excavation, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
According to Arab News, Dr. Amr El-Teibie, director-general of Saqqara Antiquities and head of the excavation mission, described the discovery as the first of its kind in the eastern section of Saqqara.
He said excavation work is continuing, with archaeologists exploring burial shafts that could reveal additional information about the tombs and their occupants.
Officials said the first tomb belonged to Mentuhotep, a senior official who held several prominent administrative and military titles, including hereditary prince, royal court servant, overseer of foreign lands and overseer of the army of Khepshet.
The tomb contains scenes depicting hunting, offerings and the official seated with his mother, Ahhotep. Archaeologists believe an unexcavated burial shaft may provide further details about his family and role in the ancient Egyptian state.
The second tomb belonged to Bar-em-Waya, also known as Samut, who served as chief merchant of the House of Ptah. Inscriptions identify members of his family, including his wife Tuy, his mother Atpeu, a singer of Amun, and their four sons.
The third tomb was identified as belonging to Nehsi, who carried the title of overseer of the house. Although much of the structure has deteriorated over time, surviving inscriptions also name his wife, Neferutah.
Hisham El-Leithy, secretary-general of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the discovery provides valuable information about the lives of individuals buried at the site and will contribute to archaeological research on the New Kingdom period.
Former Antiquities Minister Mamdouh El-Damaty said Saqqara continues to produce important archaeological discoveries from different periods of ancient Egyptian history.
Egyptologist Hussein Bassir said the latest find highlights the importance of the New Kingdom and shows that the Saqqara necropolis still contains many undiscovered historical treasures.
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