In a groundbreaking excavation, a collaborative team of Egyptian and American archaeologists has unearthed 11 sealed burials in a tomb near the South Asasif necropolis, situated next to the Temple of Hatshepsut on Luxor’s West Bank. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has reported that the findings include the skeletal remains of men, women, and children, indicating the site served as a family burial ground spanning multiple generations during the 12th and early 13th Dynasties.
This discovery marks the first medieval cemetery of its kind to be found, containing numerous unopened graves alongside a variety of significant artifacts. The archaeological mission, focused on restoring the South Al-Asif site, expressed its excitement over the rich historical context of the findings.
Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Egypt, revealed that many of the burials suffered extensive damage due to floods, which compromised the integrity of the coffins and the linen wrappings.
Among the treasures uncovered are exquisite pieces of jewelry, including a striking necklace composed of 30 amethyst cylinder beads paired with two agate beads surrounding a hippopotamus head. Additionally, two of the burials contained brass mirrors—one featuring a lotus-shaped handle and another showcasing a unique depiction of the goddess Hathor, characterized by her four distinct faces.
Dr. Elena Batchkova, director of the South Sensitive Cowardice Preservation Project, highlighted the discovery of a vibrantly colored figurine made from blue and green Venetian stone, intricately adorned with jewelry and depicted with painted black hair. Approximately 4,000 clay beads found alongside the figurine represent its natural hairstyle.
This significant find comes on the heels of another major discovery earlier this year, when archaeologists in Aswan revealed 36 tombs, each housing between 20 and 40 mummies. These tombs, dating from 600 BC to 300 AD, provide valuable insights into crucial historical periods, including Persian, Greek Ptolemaic, and Roman rule.
As excavations continue, archaeologists remain hopeful for further discoveries that will deepen our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization.
