Hawass Delivers Lecture on Recent Archaeological Discoveries in Castellione del Lago

In a grand ceremony held in the Italian city of Castellione del Lago, the city mayor honored renowned Egyptian archaeologist, Dr. Zahi Hawass. He was presented with the key to the city shield and its associated medal, amidst the presence of distinguished intellectuals, writers, journalists, and media representatives.

During the event, Hawass delivered a lecture about recent archaeological discoveries in a medieval castle square. He revealed that efforts are currently underway to locate the tomb of "Imhotep" in Saqqara, and the excavation team has already commenced work in the area. Additionally, they are searching for the tombs and mummies of Queen Nefertiti and Queen Ankhesenamun, along with the restoration of the tomb of King Ramses II in Luxor.

Detailing the new archaeological findings in the Saqqara region near the pyramid of King Teti and the cemetery of Gesr El Mudir, Hawass pointed out that the Egyptian mission has discovered a 5-meter-long papyrus, a special bronze "plaque" belonging to a soldier of the army, some toys, boats, wooden masks, and modern state stelae and coffins. The mission also discovered the tomb of "Khnum Jed If", the priest of the pyramid group of King Unas, the tomb of "Mery", the assistant of the great palace and the keeper of the king's secrets, and the tomb of "Mesi", the priest of the pyramid group of King Pepi I. Additionally, a mummy of a man covered with gold flakes was found, regarded as the most complete and oldest non-royal mummy discovered to date.

Hawass also spoke about the lost golden city in Luxor, which dates back to the reign of King Amenhotep III and was continuously used by Tutankhamun, i.e., for about 3000 years. He added that this city is the largest administrative and industrial settlement in the era of the Egyptian empire on the west bank of Luxor.

In conclusion, Hawass extended an invitation to the Italian people to visit Egypt and experience the rich archaeological wonders the country has to offer. His passion for Egypt's history and its archaeological heritage was clearly reflected in his inspiring lecture, which stirred the audience's interest in Egypt's glorious past and promising archaeological future.