In line with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities' commitment to supporting scientific research and fostering cooperation among archaeological missions operating in Egypt, the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) organized the Forum of Egyptian and Joint Archaeological Missions in Luxor. The two-day event took place at the Mummification Museum in Luxor.
The forum aimed to highlight the key achievements of both Egyptian and joint missions in the fields of excavation, restoration, documentation, and archaeological recording. It also reviewed the SCA’s nationwide excavation strategy, with a primary focus on Luxor as one of the world's most significant heritage hubs.
Key Projects and Discoveries
The forum’s program featured presentations on several high-profile archaeological projects, including:
Karnak Temples: Documentation and restoration of the Barques of Basmut, located south of the Sacred Lake.
Tutankhamun’s Tomb (KV62): Documentation, preservation, and display of the plaster wall (the loom) for visitors.
The "Golden City": A study on the impact of local climate and geology on the civil architecture of Amenhotep III’s city.
Dra' Abu el-Naga: Latest discoveries in the northern sector, including tomb K-390.
Ramesseum Temple: The project to dismantle and reassemble the First Pylon.
Esna: Ongoing excavation and restoration works at the Temple of Khnum.
The Minister’s Vision
Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, expressed his satisfaction with the forum's organization. He emphasized that the event reflects the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing scientific communication and expertise exchange between Egyptian and foreign missions, ultimately advancing the entire archaeological sector.
"Archaeological missions are a fundamental pillar in achieving tangible milestones in discoveries, documentation, and restoration, which strengthens our efforts to preserve Egypt’s cultural heritage," the Minister stated.
He further expressed his hope that this forum would serve as the nucleus for a series of specialized scientific events covering various fields, including Egyptian and Islamic antiquities, restoration sciences, and international research collaborations.
A New Era for Archaeological Research
In his opening speech, Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, praised the Council’s excavation plans, particularly in Luxor. He highlighted the leading role of Egyptian archaeologists and their fruitful cooperation with international missions.
Key announcements from the Secretary-General included:
Scientific Publishing: Excavation reports and forum results will be published in Arabic within the Annales du Service des Antiquités de l'Égypte (ASAE), alongside a new specialized scientific journal dedicated to Luxor excavations.
Capacity Building: Continuation of specialized training programs in Egypt and abroad to enhance the skills of archaeological staff.
The 2026 Revival: This forum marks the official revival of the Archaeological Missions Forum, which originally started in 2017 but was halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Support for Young Archaeologists
Concluding his speech, Dr. El-Leithy announced that the Minister has officially approved and sponsored a fund to support young Egyptian archaeologists. Managed by the SCA, this initiative will provide funding for excavation, restoration, and documentation projects. A specialized scientific committee will evaluate applications and select outstanding projects based on comprehensive work plans.
The forum was attended by senior officials from the Supreme Council of Antiquities, including Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badae (Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector), Mr. Moamen Othman (Head of the Restoration and Projects Sector), and Dr. Abdel-Ghaffar Wagdi (Director General of Luxor Antiquities), as well as Dr. Hisham Abu Zeid, Deputy Governor of Luxor, and representatives from numerous international archaeological institutes.
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