Archaeologists have discovered three rock-cut tombs from the New Kingdom period in Saqqara, Egypt, which could significantly enhance understanding of the lives of high-ranking officials in ancient Egypt, reports infohub.kz.
The tombs were found in the Bubasteion necropolis. Of particular value are the preserved hieroglyphic texts, which contain information not only about the tomb owners but also about their families — wives, mothers, and children. According to researchers, such finds are extremely rare.
The first tomb belonged to an official and military commander named Mentuhotep. Its walls preserve scenes of hunting, ritual offerings, and an image of the owner alongside his mother, Yahhotep, offering insight into the family traditions of Egyptian nobility.
The second tomb was the burial place of Pareemwaiya, also known as Samut, who served as chief trader at the temple of Ptah. Archaeologists found the names of his wife, mother, and four children on the walls. Experts believe these inscriptions will help better understand family structure and daily life among the elite during the New Kingdom.
The third tomb belonged to a house steward named Nehesi. Although it is much less well preserved, inside a fragment of a column was found with a hieroglyphic inscription recounting the return of an Egyptian military commander from the land of Naharina, located north of Syria.
According to Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, this discovery has become an important historical marker. The inscription confirms the dating of the site to the New Kingdom period and attests to close ties between ancient Egypt and states of the Middle East.
Research at the Bubasteion necropolis continues. In the next archaeological season, scientists plan to continue excavating burial shafts and unexplored areas of the ancient complex, hoping to uncover new artifacts and burials.