For decades, archaeologists have been exploring the necropolis of Tel el-Deir, located near the border with Lebanon. Recently, however, researchers stumbled upon unknown tombs and untouched treasures.
In 2019, archaeologists discovered seven gold coins dating from 284 to 641 AD in the necropolis of the late period of Ancient Egypt, along with a statue inscribed with the name of Pharaoh Psamtik II from the 26th dynasty. They also found miniature canopic jars: vessels that held the organs of the deceased who had been mummified.
Now, the team has reported an astonishing find from 2022: a massive burial complex dating back to 644-525 BC. Archaeologists consider it a true time capsule, as the discovered tombs are filled with evidence of both secular and religious life from that era, along with everyday items and works of art. The site contains the remains of both ordinary citizens and the wealthy, as reported by the Independent. The tombs of common people are made of clay bricks, while those of the affluent are constructed from limestone.
What Exactly Did the Researchers Find?
Unlike most ancient Egyptian necropolises, which have been plundered by grave robbers over the years, Tel el-Deir has preserved untouched bronze coins, religious symbols, and statuettes of deities such as Isis, Bastet, and Horus, crafted from gold leaf.
Additionally, intact artifacts like ceramic vessels containing remnants of food and drinks for burial rituals, amulets, and scarabs shed new light on the customs and rituals of the ancient Egyptians. This is the view of Mohamed Ismail Khaled, head of the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Egypt.
Interestingly, during the excavations, archaeologists also uncovered a ceramic jug containing 38 bronze coins from the Ptolemaic dynasty. However, this dynasty ruled from 305 to 30 BC, which is several centuries after the necropolis was established. Therefore, researchers will likely need to conduct further studies.
Overall, the artifacts found indicate the craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians and their access to materials through developed trade.
According to the archaeologists, the results of years of excavations suggest that Dumyat was an important trading center throughout a significant period in the history of Ancient Egypt.