Hidden Crypt with 3,500-Year-Old Sarcophagi Discovered in Abu el-Naga
Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities has revealed that an archaeological team has discovered ten intricately painted wooden sarcophagi within a concealed crypt at the Abu El-Naga necropolis, located near Luxor. These artifacts were located in a shaft within the tomb of Baki and showcase vibrant imagery and hieroglyphs. Among them, four are traced back to the 18th Dynasty (c. 1550–1292 BCE), including one identified as Merit, a singer dedicated to Amun. Another sarcophagus, from the Ramesside period (c. 1292–1077 BCE), is named Padi-Amun, a priest of Amun. The rest are from the Late Period (664–332 BCE). Additionally, the excavation uncovered the tomb of A-Shafi-Nakhtu, a purification priest, and over 30 mummified cats from the Ptolemaic period (305–30 BCE). The excavation season commenced in November 2025.
Key facts
- Hidden crypt with ten painted wooden sarcophagi discovered in Abu El-Naga necropolis near Luxor.
- Sarcophagi found in shaft in courtyard of tomb of Baki.
- Four sarcophagi date to 18th Dynasty (c. 1550–1292 BCE), including one of Merit, singer of god Amun.
- One sarcophagus from Ramesside period (c. 1292–1077 BCE) bears name of Padi-Amun, priest of Temple of Amon.
- Remaining sarcophagi belong to Late Period (664–332 BCE).
- Tomb of A-Shafi-Nakhtu, purification priest of Temple of Amon, discovered in same courtyard.
- Sandstone statuette inscribed with name 'Benji' and titles 'scribe' and 'noble' found.
- Burial site of over 30 mummified cats from Ptolemaic period (305–30 BCE) uncovered.
- Excavation season began November 2025, eighth campaign at site.
- Abdel-Ghaffar Wagdy, Director General of Luxor Antiquities, announced new titles and owners not in historical sources.
Entities
Institutions
- Supreme Council of Antiquities
- Temple of Amon
Locations
- Abu El-Naga
- Luxor
- Egypt
Sources
- Artslife —