Three New New Kingdom Rock-Cut Tombs Discovered in Saqqara

In a new archaeological achievement adding to the series of discoveries in the Saqqara necropolis, the Egyptian archaeological mission working at the Bubasteion cemetery has successfully uncovered three rock-cut tombs dating back to the New Kingdom. The discovery was made during scientific excavations in the eastern sector of the site's rocky cliff, revealing significant hieroglyphic inscriptions and artifacts that shed light on new aspects of the ancient Memphis necropolis and enrich the understanding of top state officials and elite society during that era.

Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, emphasized that this discovery confirms Saqqara still holds hidden archaeological treasures. He noted that the successive discoveries in the region highlight the exceptional cultural value of Saqqara as one of the world's most vital World Heritage sites.

The Minister praised the efforts of all Egyptian and foreign archaeological missions, encouraging them to continue their scientific endeavors. He stressed that every new archaeological find represents a qualitative addition to our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization, helping to complete the historical picture of one of humanity's greatest civilizations.

For his part, Dr. Hisham El-Laithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), explained that the importance of this discovery extends beyond merely finding new tombs. It revives the biographies of their owners and restores pages of their history that remained buried under the sand for millennia, giving each discovery a profoundly human and historical dimension and enriching studies related to Egyptian society during the New Kingdom.

Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badea, Head of the Central Administration of Upper Egypt Antiquities at the SCA, stated that this discovery comes within the framework of the archaeological study project of the Bubasteion cemetery. It paves the way for further discoveries in upcoming seasons, especially with ongoing excavations inside burial shafts and unexplored areas. These are expected to yield new archaeological and historical data that will complement the cultural profile of the tomb owners and add new chapters to the history of the Bubasteion—one of Saqqara's most important and artifact-rich cemeteries documenting multiple facets of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Dr. Amr Al-Tibi, Director General of the Saqqara Antiquities Area, pointed out that the first tomb belongs to an individual named "Mentuhotep." Its northern walls feature finely executed scenes of offering-bearers and hunting depictions, alongside a large scene showing the tomb owner seated with his mother, "Ahhotep,"reflecting the high social status of the family.

The walls of the tomb recorded a group of significant titles, including: Hereditary Prince, Mayor, Follower of the King, He Who Makes the Heart of the Ruler Glad, Director, Overseer of Foreign Lands, and Overseer of the Army of the City of Khebshit. These titles indicate that the tomb owner was a high-ranking administrative and military official during the early New Kingdom.

The tomb includes a burial shaft where excavation works are yet to be completed. Excavations are scheduled to resume during the next archaeological season, which may help uncover new information regarding the identity of Mentuhotep’s mother and the history and role of this family in ancient Egyptian administration.

Dr. Al-Tibi added that the second tomb belongs to an individual named "Pa-Ra-Em-Weya," also known as "Samut,"who held the title of Chief Merchant of the House of Ptah. The tomb serves as an integrated family record, preserving the names of his wife, "Tuy" (who held the title Lady of the House), his mother, "Atbyo" (who held the title Singer of the God Amun), as well as the names of his four children. This offers a rare glimpse into the domestic and social life of a prominent figure in the New Kingdom.

As for the third tomb, it belongs to an individual named "Nehesy." Although it is in a poor state of preservation, the remaining inscriptions hold significant historical value. The owner’s name and title—Overseer of the House—were identified, along with the name of his wife, "Nefru-Ptah," who also held the title Lady of the House.

Among the most remarkable elements of this tomb is a portion of a column bearing a hieroglyphic text that references the return of a leader from the land of Naharina (located in northern Syria). This text is of particular importance; it not only helps date the tomb to the New Kingdom but also provides fresh evidence regarding the nature of Egyptian relations with the Near East during that pivotal period.