Egypt: Ancient Tombs, Sealed Burial Chambers, 24 Gold Amulets & Other Rare Artefacts Discovered

Archaeologists in Egypt uncovered ancient tombs, sealed burial chambers, and several rare artefacts. These were uncovered during the excavation work at the archaeological site of Marina El Alamein. This location is on the northwestern Mediterranean coast of Egypt, and here’s all you need to know about the discovery made by an Egyptian archaeologist.

Archaeologists Uncover 18 Ancient Tombs & More In Egypt

Recently, Egyptian archaeologists uncovered 18 ancient tombs and rare artefacts, which included 24 gold tongue amulets, sealed burial chambers, and a granite sarcophagus. The discovery was made as the archaeological mission was working in the ancient city. With the excavation bringing the total number of tombs to 44 since the discovery of the site in 1986, this is another major breakthrough.

These Were Discovered In Marina El Alamein

According to the latest findings, there are 11 rock-cut tombs, which have been carved to an average depth of 8 m. There are seven above-ground limestone tombs. As mentioned by the Gulf News, the burial chambers, which were discovered in an exceptional state of preservation. They were sealed by original stone slabs, which have remained unopened since antiquity.

Moreover, archaeologists have also uncovered surface burials that surround the tomb. This reflects the diverse social composition of the city. There was also a water well, which was later repurposed for burial. This highlights the continued influence of ancient Egyptian funerary tradition during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods.

24 Gold Tongue Amulets Were Also Discovered

24 amulets were discovered amongst the most significant discoveries. These were placed inside the mouth of some of the deceased, which highlights a funerary practice that was associated with the belief that the dead would be able to speak in the afterlife. The excavation also revealed the gold Eye of Horus amulet, which is one of the most enduring symbols of protection in the religion of ancient Egypt.

The mission also recovered several other artefacts, such as complete and near-complete pot vessels, oil lamps, amphorae, plates, limestone altars, and a basin. Together, these architectural elements were once part of the tombs. A limestone offering altar is a stand-up feature, which had a false door and a symbolic element, which was commonly associated with the ancient Egyptian bar belief. Not only this, but an unfinished marble statue was also uncovered, which is believed to depict the goddess Aphrodite. A limestone stele was also uncovered, which showed a seated man holding a bird and several glass tear bottles.

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Granite Sarcophagus Was Discovered

During the excavation, a 2.5 m granite sarcophagus was also discovered, along with its original lid in place. The human skeletal remains were discovered inside. These are currently undergoing scientific analysis. Remains of the Sphinx statue were also found by the archaeologists nearby. It offers proof of the enduring presence of Egyptian religious and artistic traditions in Marina El Alamein during the Hellenistic and Roman eras.

This discovery was an important scientific and archaeological achievement in understanding the cultural identity of these ancient habits that once walked in Egypt.

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