Discovery of Ancient Tombs in Luxor Marks Significant Archaeological Milestone for Egypt

Discovery of Ancient Tombs in Luxor Marks Significant Archaeological Milestone for Egypt

CAIRO — In a remarkable archaeological achievement, the Egyptian mission has unveiled three new tombs belonging to prominent statesmen in the Dra Abu al-Naga necropolis, located on the west bank of Luxor. These discoveries, dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550–1070 B.C.), shed light on ancient Egypt’s rich history and cultural legacy, officials announced on Monday.

The minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, expressed that these findings represent a substantial scientific milestone, emphasizing their potential to enhance Egypt’s global standing as a major center for cultural tourism. He voiced confidence that the tombs would attract heightened interest, particularly among travelers drawn to Egypt’s vast ancient heritage.

According to Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the inscriptions discovered within the burial chambers have successfully identified the names and titles of the tombs' occupants. Further research on additional inscriptions is anticipated to provide a deeper understanding of their historical significance.

Among the most notable of the newly uncovered tombs is that of Amum-em-Ipet, who served during the Ramesside period and worked within the estate of Amun. Unfortunately, Amum-em-Ipet's tomb has suffered considerable damage over time, yet remnants remain which showcase depictions of funeral furniture and banquet scenes—elements that exemplify traditional New Kingdom funerary art.

The other two tombs, attributed to a man named Baki and another identified only as S, provide further insights into the roles held by officials during this storied era. Baki was responsible for supervising a grain silo, while S held multiple prestigious positions, including supervisor at the Temple of Amun, writer, and mayor of the northern oases.

• Baki’s tomb features a courtyard leading to its main entrance, accompanied by a long corridor-like space and a transverse hall extending into an unfinished chamber, which contains a burial well.
• Tomb S includes a small courtyard with a well, the main entrance, and a transverse hall leading into another incomplete longitudinal hall.

This latest discovery joins a series of archaeological finds in Luxor, where, earlier this year, archaeologists uncovered ancient rock-cut tombs dating back 3,600 years near the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut’s funerary temple. Additionally, excavations conducted late last year revealed an ancient tomb with 11 sealed burials in close proximity to the Temple of Hatshepsut.

The ongoing excavation efforts highlight the growing success of Egyptian-led missions in uncovering and preserving the country's rich ancient heritage, fostering a greater appreciation for scholarly research and public engagement alike. The Grand Egyptian Museum, expected to open this summer, will further contribute to showcasing over 100,000 artifacts that narrate the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient civilization.