Egypt unveils ancient Greek and Roman-era rock-cut tombs in Aswan
Inscriptions and artifacts provide valuable scientific material for Egyptologists, particularly in the study of funerary practices and religious symbolism during the later stages of ancient Egyptian civilization
Egypt announced the discovery of several ancient tombs dating back to the Greek (332 BC – 30 BC) and Roman (30 BC – 395 AD) periods in the southern city of Aswan, marking a major archaeological breakthrough.
In a statement, issued today by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities revealed that the joint Egyptian-Italian archaeological mission — comprising the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the University of Milan — uncovered rock-cut tombs surrounding the Aga Khan Mausoleum on Aswan’s West Bank. The tombs featured well-preserved hieroglyphic inscriptions, offering new insights into Egypt’s rich historical tapestry.
Among the most remarkable discoveries was Tomb No. 38, situated more than two meters underground. The tomb is accessed via a stone staircase of nine steps, flanked by mudbrick terraces once used for placing funerary offerings.
Inside, archaeologists found a striking limestone sarcophagus resting on a rock platform carved into the mountain. The sarcophagus features a human-shaped lid adorned with detailed facial features, a stylized wig, and intricate decorations.
Hieroglyphic texts carved in two columns on the sarcophagus include prayers to the local Aswan deities and the name of the tomb’s owner, Ka-Mesio, a prominent official of his time. The inscriptions also name members of his family.
The tombs also contained multiple mummies, including those of children, according to the Ministry.
Describing the find as a “qualitative addition,” Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy said the discovery sheds new light on social life in Aswan during the Ptolemaic and Roman eras.
Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that the mummies, especially those of children, will undergo CT scans and bio-archaeological studies in the upcoming fall season. These analyses aim to uncover information about the individuals’ identities, living conditions, and causes of death.
He added that the inscriptions and artifacts provide valuable scientific material for Egyptologists, particularly in the study of funerary practices and religious symbolism during the later stages of ancient Egyptian civilization.
