A land of limitless discovery: Egypt’s ancient past continues to surprise
Egypt is a country that has been explored and scrutinized like few others. For over two hundred years treasure seekers and archaeologists have combed through its shifting sands to reveal a glittering civilisation now familiar to millions. One could be forgiven for thinking that there is nothing more to be discovered. But startling new discoveries are made almost monthly, adding greatly to our understanding of this beguiling culture.
In 2017, with the aid of a high-energy particle radiation scan, a huge cavity 30 metres long was found deep inside Giza’s Great Pyramid. With no physical access from outside, the ‘Big Void’ continues to baffle scientists. Was it built to relieve the weight of the enormous structure above? Or is it an anti-seismic chamber built to reduce the destructive effects of an earthquake? This is the sort of debate that makes ancient Egypt so compelling.
Then, in October 2020, at Saqqara, the site of some of the earliest of Egypt’s pyramids, archaeologists discovered 59 sarcophagi which had not been opened for over 2,500 years. In January 2023 tombs dating back around 4,300 years were discovered nearby including one with the mummy of a wealthy individual called Hekashepes. The mummy was covered in gold leaf, the oldest complete example of this type of adornment yet discovered. The body was not preserved in bandages but wore a tunic with a belt and large necklace. Archaeologists think this may have been an attempt to preserve the living appearance of the deceased and sheds intriguing light on the religious beliefs at this time.
Added: 11th September 2024
