Ancient Egyptian Funerary Stelae with Greek-Inspired Icons Unearthed at Tell El-Deir
Archaeologists have discovered over 20 funerary stelae in the Tell El-Deir area of the Nile Delta, revealing significant insights into the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. These limestone markers, which feature carvings of a griffin, Agathodaemon, and Isis-Thermuthis, reflect the extensive impact of Greek culture from 305 BCE to 642 CE. Mohamed Abdel-Badie, head of the Egyptian Antiquities sector, emphasized the high-quality craftsmanship, suggesting these stelae are connected to notable burials. The excavation also yielded pottery coffins, oil lamps, incense burners, and amulets, reinforcing the site's historical relevance highlighted since 2007.
Key facts
- More than 20 funerary stelae depicting human figures were discovered at Tell El-Deir in the Nile Delta.
- The stelae feature engravings of a griffin, Agathodaemon, and Isis-Thermuthis.
- The combination of icons indicates contact with Greek culture during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods.
- The excavation also uncovered pottery coffins, incense burners, oil lamps, and funerary amulets.
- Work at Tell El-Deir resumed in 2007, yielding thousands of artifacts mainly from the 26th Dynasty.
- The necropolis was in continuous use from the Late Period to the end of Roman rule.
- Mohamed Abdel-Badie of the SCA commented on the significance of the icons.
- Hesham El-Leithy, secretary-general of the SCA, described Tell El-Deir as a fully developed funerary complex.
Entities
Institutions
- Supreme Council of Antiquities
- Ahram
- La Brújula Verde
Locations
- Tell El-Deir
- Nile Delta
- Egypt