Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered an antiquated coffin which has garnered worldwide attention. On Saturday, super-excited people in Egypt watched in anticipation as archaeologists unsealed the first of 59 sealed sarcophagi (a stone coffin) found earlier this year in Saqqara, revealing a mummy inside.
Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said in a statement that 59 wooden coffins were discovered inside burial wells in Saqqara’s archaeology area. The coffins are in good condition and contain the bodies of Egyptian priests, prestigious members of the community and other senior men.
Honoured to be invited by the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities HE Khaled El Anany to Saqqara for the announcement that a new tomb of mummies has been discovered. I saw one being opened for the first time in 2600 years! Truly amazing! @TourismandAntiq @MFATNZ ???? pic.twitter.com/5oLfAM7zAV
— Greg Lewis ???? (@NZinEgypt) October 3, 2020
Press Release Excerpt, October 3, 2020
(Translated)
During his speech, Dr. Anani indicated that this day is an important event as it highlights Egypt’s uniqueness in its diversity that many countries do not have, pointing out the participation of nearly 60 ambassadors and their families from 43 countries.
The minister spoke about the visit organized for nearly 30 ambassadors of different countries in Egypt to Sharm el-Sheikh last week during which they enjoyed various activities between safari, diving and snorkelling, as well as Visit Ras Muhammad Reserve and Sharm El Sheikh Museum.
He also pointed out today that there are about 200 representatives of various global and local media, thanking them for their participation in attendance today to convey this huge event to the world and to bring global light on ancient Egyptian civilization.
On the details of today’s archaeological reveal, the minister explained that three wells were discovered with 13 coffins, then another 14 coffins were revealed, bringing the total number of coffins discovered till date to 59.
