A joint Chinese–Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered a previously undocumented sacred lake within the Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor, shedding new light on religious practices in ancient Egypt.
This is reported by Global Times, a partner of TV BRICS.
The discovery was made at the Temple of Montu, where researchers identified a rectangular basin located west of the Temple of Maat.
Measuring approximately 6.5 by 6 meters and covering more than 50 square meters, the lake is believed to have been dedicated to the goddess Maat, who symbolized truth, justice, and cosmic balance in ancient Egyptian belief.
According to the excavation team, the structure is remarkably well preserved. It features mud-brick and sandstone construction, along with a staircase built into its eastern wall, indicating controlled access and ritual use.
Archaeological evidence suggests the lake underwent multiple phases of reinforcement and restoration from Egypt’s 30th Dynasty through the Roman period.
One sandstone block reused in the staircase appears to date back even earlier, possibly originating from a gateway of the Temple of Maat built during the 25th Dynasty.
The newly found basin has been named the “Southern Sacred Lake,” distinguishing it from another sacred lake already known at the site.
Together, the two form a rare twin-lake arrangement within a single temple precinct, a layout seldom seen in ancient Egyptian religious architecture.
Excavations around the lake also uncovered cattle jawbones and reused stone blocks bearing inscriptions linked to royal figures and the Divine Adoratrice of Amun from the Late Period (747–332 BC).
Researchers believe these reused elements will help determine the lake’s original construction date and provide further insight into ritual activities carried out at Karnak.
The find is considered a significant addition to ongoing research at the Karnak complex, reinforcing its status as one of the most important religious centers of ancient Egypt.
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