Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered approximately 1,500 stone blocks that once formed part of the valley temple of Hatshepsut, one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful and enigmatic female rulers. The discovery was made near her funerary temple in Luxor, a city that was central to Egypt’s New Kingdom period.
Hatshepsut, the sixth pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, ruled during the 15th century BCE and remains renowned for her successful reign. She was unique among pharaohs for her insistence on being depicted with male attributes, including a false beard and the broad chest of a man, though the exact reason for this portrayal remains a mystery. After her death around 1458 BCE, much of her legacy was erased, with many monuments and statues defaced or destroyed.
The newly discovered stone blocks, some of which retain vibrant colors, are believed to have made up part of the temple’s foundation wall. These pieces offer invaluable insight into the art and craftsmanship of the period. “These remarkable blocks retain their vivid colors and offer a glimpse into the artistry of the period,” said Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities.
In addition to the blocks, archaeologists also uncovered a variety of ancient tools, such as chisels, a wooden hammer, an adz, and a wooden cast for making mud bricks. These items are thought to have been buried during the construction of the temple.
The discovery sheds new light on Hatshepsut’s architectural achievements and underscores her significant role in Egypt’s history, both as a ruler and as a patron of the arts and construction.
