Archaeologists Discover Ancient Tombs and Artifacts Near Luxor, Egypt

Archaeologists working near Luxor, Egypt, have announced significant discoveries of rock-cut tombs and burial shafts believed to date back up to 3,600 years. The findings were made along the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut’s funerary temple on the west bank of the Nile River, and include artifacts that could reshape current understanding of ancient Egyptian life and practices.

The Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities & Heritage reports that the excavation began in September 2022, in collaboration with Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. Among the artifacts uncovered are bronze coins, funerary masks, winged scarabs, and clay children’s toys. Additionally, archaeologists found pottery tables that were likely used for ceremonial offerings, linking the tomb's occupants to military activities during that time.

The tombs discovered are believed to belong to individuals from the Middle Kingdom, with some artifacts tracing back to the 17th dynasty. One notable tomb belonged to Djehuti-Mes, an overseer of Queen Teti Sheri’s palace, although it had been largely emptied over the centuries.

Alongside these discoveries, parts of the Assassif Ptolemaic Necropolis were found, which contain tombs built over the remnants of Hatshepsut’s temple. This adds to previous findings, including 11 sealed burials located in a Middle Kingdom tomb announced in November 2024. These ongoing archaeological efforts near Luxor continue to reveal important insights into Egypt’s ancient civilization.