New Archaeological Discoveries in Minya Reveal Ancient Secrets

Discoveries in Minya.

During excavation work at the Mountain of Birds area in Minya, an Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities uncovered two tombs dating back to ancient times, along with several burials from pre-dynastic periods and the late era.

Sharif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, stated that this discovery adds significant value to Egypt’s archaeological record by providing evidence that contributes to understanding the evolution of funerary architecture in ancient Egypt across various periods.

Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the first tomb represents a rare architectural find due to its unique design. The second tomb closely resembles it and is well-preserved.

Initial studies indicate a notable similarity between the designs of the newly discovered tombs and that of King Den’s famous tomb in Abydos, reinforcing the archaeological significance of the Mountain of Birds area as one of the important burial grounds used throughout extensive historical periods from pre-dynastic times to the late era.

Mohamed Abdel Badi, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, explained that the design of the first tomb features a gradient in wall thickness from bottom to top, with increased thickness at the base gradually decreasing towards the apex. This architectural style may represent an early stage in engineering thought that eventually led to the development of step pyramids and then complete pyramids.

He added that it is likely that the tomb underwent quarrying activities in later eras aimed at extracting stone blocks; however, remaining sections revealed crucial details about construction techniques during that period, including evidence of oxides indicating precise stone-cutting methods and massive wooden supports used to reinforce walls—some extending along entire wall lengths while others appeared as separate straight pieces.

The second tomb is located south of the first and shares a similar architectural design but has not been subjected to quarrying activities, which has helped preserve its elements more effectively.

Dr. Sami Dardiri, head of the mission and head of Central Administration for Middle Egypt Antiquities, reported that the team also discovered part of a cemetery dating back to pre-dynastic times containing burials in a crouched position wrapped in decayed plant matting. Nearby were pottery vessels with black rims dated to Naqada II and III periods.

The excavation also revealed several individual and collective human burials, some found within decayed wooden coffins believed to date back to the late era. This indicates that the area continued to be used as a burial ground throughout successive historical epochs. Work is ongoing at the site to uncover more secrets.