A remarkable archaeological find in Egypt is rewriting the history of the region surrounding the famous burial site of Tutankhamun. Excavations beneath the streets of Luxor have uncovered a treasure trove of artifacts, including 11 well-preserved wooden coffins—one of which is for a child—nestled deep within rocky tombs and burial shafts that stretch hundreds of feet below the surface.
This newly unearthed trove offers an unprecedented glimpse into life over 3,600 years ago, as it holds the potential to deepen our understanding of the rituals, and day-to-day life in the time of Egypt’s ancient rulers.
Among the remarkable finds are not only the wooden coffins, but also a wealth of other artifacts, including bronze coins bearing the image of Alexander the Great, which date back to the reign of Ptolemy I (367–283 BC). These coins are a rare link to the Hellenistic period, adding another layer of historical context to the discovery.
Additional items found within the tombs include clay children’s toys, intricate funerary masks that conceal mummies, winged scarabs, beads, and amulets—all providing invaluable insight into the customs and beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife in ancient Egypt.