Relocation Begins for Sarcophagus Discovered at Benha University Hospital Site

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, represented by the Supreme Council of Antiquities, commenced the relocation of the stone sarcophagus found during the rescue excavation works at the site allocated for the construction of the specialized Benha University Hospital in Qalyubia Governorate, to the Qalyubia archaeological area, in preparation for comprehensive maintenance and restoration.

Dr. Mustafa Waziri, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that the sarcophagus was lifted and transported according to precise scientific standards and methods, following the initial restoration work at the discovery site by a team of specialists from the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Grand Egyptian Museum, which included mechanical cleaning and reinforcement of the sarcophagus and its lid.

Mohamed El-Saeedy, the director of the Scientific Office of the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the sarcophagus, made of quartzite, dates back to the era of King Psamtik I, weighing approximately 62 tons with its lid.  Preliminary studies on the sarcophagus suggest that it belonged to the overseer of the scribes during the reign of King Psamtik I of the 26th Dynasty, as evidenced by a bas-relief inscription at the bottom of the sarcophagus lid depicting the cartouche of King Psamtik I.

The Supreme Council of Antiquities will continue the rescue excavations at the site until all works are completed and it is confirmed that there are no other archaeological artifacts present.