Discovery of Hatshepsut’s Temple Foundation in Southern Egypt
Excavations in Luxor Unearth Part of Hatshepsut’s Temple Foundation
Archaeologists working in the Deir el-Bahari area of Luxor Governorate in southern Egypt have made an exciting discovery. Zahi Hawass, a renowned Egyptologist, announced that part of the foundation of Hatshepsut’s temple and tombs from the Middle Kingdom have been uncovered during recent excavations.
Hawass revealed during a press conference that the mission had uncovered a portion of the temple’s foundation, which served as the main entrance gate to the mortuary temple in the valley. The ongoing excavations and research in the area, which began in September 2022, have yielded significant findings.
Among the discoveries are numerous inscriptions and rock-cut tombs dating back to the Middle Kingdom (2050-1710 BC). Valuable artifacts, such as ceramic tables used for sacrificial offerings, have also been found in the tombs, shedding light on ancient Egyptian rituals and practices.
Additionally, the archaeological mission unearthed rock-cut tombs from the 17th Dynasty, archery bows, the tomb of Djehuti-Mes (the caretaker of Queen Tetisheri’s palace), and a portion of the El-Assasif necropolis. The findings provide new insights into the history and burial practices of this period in ancient Egypt.
One particularly interesting discovery is the bronze coins depicting Alexander the Great, which date back to the reign of Ptolemy I (367 – 283 BC). These coins offer a glimpse into the interactions between ancient Egypt and the Hellenistic world during this era.
The ongoing excavations in Luxor continue to uncover new discoveries that enhance our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization and its rich history. The work of archaeologists like Zahi Hawass plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing this cultural heritage with the world.
(Source: ORIENT news)
Photo: egyptfan.ru
