Treasure Trove in Egyptian Tomb Solves Ancient Mystery

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A remarkable archaeological discovery in Egypt has shed new light on one of the Nile Delta’s most enigmatic burial sites. French archaeologists working in the ancient capital of Tanis uncovered a treasure trove of 225 funerary figurines, solving a mystery that has puzzled historians for decades.

A Rare Find in Tanis

The figurines, known as ushabti, were traditionally placed in tombs to serve the deceased in the afterlife. What makes this find extraordinary is that such a complete set has not been uncovered in Tanis since 1946. The figurines were carefully arranged in a star-shaped pattern around a trapezoidal pit, with rows at the bottom — a deliberate and symbolic placement.

More than half of the figurines are female, which archaeologists describe as “quite exceptional.” This detail offers new insights into burial practices and gender representation in funerary traditions of the 21st Dynasty.

Identifying the Pharaoh

The discovery also solved a long-standing mystery: the identity of the ruler buried in the imposing sarcophagus. Royal symbols on the figurines confirmed that the tomb belonged to Pharaoh Shoshenq III, who reigned between 830 and 791 BC.

This revelation was surprising because another tomb at the site, bearing Shoshenq III’s name and containing the largest sarcophagus in Tanis, had long been assumed to be his final resting place. The new evidence suggests that burial plans may have changed due to political turmoil or looting.

Historical Context

Shoshenq III’s reign was marked by civil war between Upper and Lower Egypt, with rival pharaohs vying for power. Archaeologists believe this instability may explain why the pharaoh was buried in a different tomb than originally intended.

The find underscores the fragile nature of royal succession in ancient Egypt, where even kings could not guarantee their chosen burial sites.

Future Display

After careful study, the figurines will be displayed in an Egyptian museum. Officials from Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities hailed the discovery as a “decisive step” in solving one of Tanis’s greatest archaeological mysteries. They also emphasized that the site still holds many secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Significance

This discovery comes just weeks after the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a $1 billion project showcasing 7,000 years of Egyptian history. The timing highlights Egypt’s ongoing efforts to preserve and share its rich cultural heritage with the world.

Source: CBS News – Treasure trove found in Egyptian tomb solves long-standing mystery


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