A joint Egyptian-Spanish archaeological mission has uncovered several Ptolemaic-period (332-30 BC) tombs at the Al-Bahnasa archaeological site in southern Egypt’s Minya governorate. The discovery, reported by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities on Saturday, has provided new insights into ancient Egyptian history.
Discoveries in the Tombs
The tombs feature colorful decorations, mummies, skeletons, coffins, and unique artifacts. These include amulets, heart scarabs, and depictions of deities. The team also uncovered a rectangular stone burial well, leading to a mass grave site. Dozens of mummies were arranged side by side, indicating these rooms served as mass graves. This marks the first time that human remains have been found at Al-Bahnasa. Among the remains were 13 golden tongues and nails from the Ptolemaic-era mummies.
Insights into Religious Practices
The texts and scenes of ancient Egyptian characters on the tombs provide valuable insights into the region’s history and religious practices during the Ptolemaic period. Archaeologists hope these findings will further enrich our understanding of ancient Egyptian life.
New Finds at Taposiris Magna Temple
On December 8, an Egyptian-Dominican archaeological mission also made a significant discovery at the Taposiris Magna temple complex near Alexandria. The mission uncovered statues, coins, and pottery that shed light on the site’s history during the late Ptolemaic period. A notable find was a white marble statue of a woman wearing a royal crown. Some experts believe it may depict Queen Cleopatra VII, though others suggest it could be a princess due to differences in facial features.
The mission also unearthed 337 coins, many bearing the image of Cleopatra VII. Other finds include pottery, oil lamps, bronze figurines, and an amulet inscribed with the phrase “The justice of Ra has shone.” They also discovered a bronze ring dedicated to the goddess Hathor.
Greek Temple and Additional Discoveries
These artifacts suggest the Taposiris Magna temple walls were constructed in the first century BC. The team also uncovered the remains of a Greek temple from the fourth century BC, destroyed between the second century BC and the beginning of the AD era. This temple lies near a deep tunnel system that connects Lake Mariut in Alexandria to the Mediterranean Sea.
Additionally, the mission found a large cemetery containing 20 burial chambers, including one with three chambers beneath the ancient Taposiris Magna lighthouse. The team discovered nine white marble busts and other artifacts in one of these chambers.
Underwater Excavations
Preliminary underwater excavations near the Taposiris Magna temple have yielded human skeletal remains and a large quantity of pottery. These findings further underscore the historical and cultural significance of the site.
