Egypt discovers ancient coffins in major archaeological find
Egypt unveils a major archaeological discovery in the Saqqara necropolis, with 59 coffins dating back more than 2,500 years.
The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities revealed Oct. 3 a major archaeological discovery in the Saqqara necropolis south of Cairo. The Egyptian archaeological mission was behind the discovery of 59 ancient wooden coffins stacked on top of each other dating back more than 2,500 years. The coffins were found in shafts buried at different depths.
According to the ministry’s statement on its official Facebook page, Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled al-Anani said the coffins were in good condition preserving their original colors. He said that according to preliminary studies, the coffins belong to priests, high-ranking statesmen and prominent figures in society of the 26th Dynasty.
“The discovery is ongoing. We have found layers of coffins, which will be announced later,” Anani said.
The discovery was announced amid extensive media coverage at the Saqqara archaeological necropolis in the presence of around 60 foreign and Arab ambassadors, and a number of local and foreign news agencies. One of the coffins was opened before the reporters to show the mummy inside.
