Saqqara verréid méi egypteschen Pyramid Schätz

Egyptian Culture Minister Farouk Hosni this week said that several painted wooden sarcophagi dating back to the Late Period (sixth century BC) have been unearthed south of the causeway of the pyramid of Unas at Saqqara. He explained that these sarcophagi were uncovered during routine excavations carried out by an archaeological mission from Cairo University.

Dr. Zahi Hawass, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), said that the mission has also found a group of canopic jars, a wooden box and the remains of a painted sarcophagus belonging to Maayi, a scribe in the place of Maat during the reign of King Ramesses II (1304-1237 BC).

Dr. Ola El Aguizy, former Dean of the Faculty of Archaeology and head of the mission, said that the university archeological team found the remaining part of the tomb of Wadj-Mes, an overseer of guards during the reign of Ramesses II. The tomb revealed several corridors and underground tunnels. Fragments of pots, sarcophagi, and painted blocks were also discovered inside the tomb.

Dr. Ahmed Saeed, assistant head of the mission, said that a group of ushabti figures was unearthed inside the tomb of Wadj-Mes, as well as Maayi’s chapel, which reaffirms the importance of this area as it was used during different periods of Egyptian history.
Offering tables and clay pots were also discovered. Saqqara once again has shed light on its rich ancient culture following the discovery of tombs in the oldest pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara.