The Egyptian archaeological mission—a joint venture between the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Zahi Hawas Foundation for Antiquities and Heritage—has unveiled a significant cache of painted wooden sarcophagi containing mummies, alongside a collection of rare papyri dating back to the Third Intermediate Period. The discovery was made during excavations in the southwestern corner of the courtyard of Sennefer’s tomb in the Qurna region on Luxor’s West Bank.
Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, emphasized that this find is a "qualitative addition" to Egypt’s record of distinguished archaeological discoveries. He noted that it reflects the full and continuous state support for archaeological research as part of a comprehensive strategy to preserve and highlight Egypt’s cultural and human heritage.
The Minister added that the Ministry prioritizes the restoration and scientific study of such finds to ensure they are preserved according to the highest international standards. This preparation aims to display them in a manner befitting the greatness of Egyptian civilization, ultimately enhancing cultural tourism in Luxor, which remains an open-air museum of human history.
Dr. Zahi Hawass, former Minister of Antiquities, President of the Zahi Hawas Foundation, and head of the mission, described the discovery as "exceptional." He stated that it unveils new secrets from the Third Intermediate Period and provides a vast treasure trove of information regarding this era.
Inside the Burial Cache
According to Dr. Hawass, the excavations revealed a rectangular rock-cut chamber serving as a funerary storehouse. Inside, the team found 22 painted wooden sarcophagi arranged in layers. The ancient Egyptians demonstrated remarkable spatial organization, stacking the sarcophagi in 10 horizontal rows and separating the lids from the cases to maximize the chamber’s capacity. The mission also recovered several ceramic vessels believed to have held materials used during the mummification process.
Dr. Hisham el-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that the mission is currently working to solve the mystery of the cache and identify its occupants.
"Most of these sarcophagi bear functional titles rather than personal names," Dr. el-Leithy explained. "The most common title found is 'Chantress or Singer of Amun,' which opens new avenues for studying the class of chanters and musicians during that period."
Preservation and Rare Papyri
Due to the fragile condition of the wood, the mission’s restoration team has initiated "urgent conservation" efforts. This includes treating decayed wood fibers, reinforcing weakened layers of colored plaster, and performing meticulous mechanical cleaning to remove deposits without damaging the vibrant colors. Each piece is being fully documented through photography and architectural mapping before being moved to storage.
Dr. Afifi Rahim, supervisor of the mission's field operations, confirmed that the cache dates back to the Third Intermediate Period (Dynasties 21-25). He noted that while the sarcophagi lack personal names, the mummies remain inside. The mission is continuing its excavations to locate the original tombs from which these sarcophagi were moved.
In a stunning find, the team also discovered eight papyri of varying sizes inside a large ceramic jar. Some of these scrolls still retain their original clay seals. Experts believe these papyri are an information goldmine; the world awaits their secrets once restoration and translation are complete.
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