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Untouched 4,400-Year-Old Tomb Discovered In Egypt

Untouched 4,400-Year-Old Tomb Discovered In Egypt

It has been described as a 'one of a kind' discovery and archaeologists expect to make even more findings.

Rachael Grealish

Rachael Grealish

Another wonder of the ancient Egyptian world has been discovered, as archaeologists uncovered the final resting place of a high priest - which has been hidden for over 4,000 years.

The secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mostafa Waziri, has said the untouched tomb is 'one of a kind', according to the BBC.

The amazing find is located in the Saqqara pyramid complex near Cairo, and archaeologists believe it belonged to the high priest Wahtye due to the scenes carved into the interior.

The scenes are believed to depict the priest with his mother, wife and various other relatives.

An excavation worker stands before the newly-discovered tomb.
PA

Along with colourful and stunning hieroglyphs, there are grand statues of pharaohs - it's also thought there could be many other treasures yet to be discovered.

As the tomb has been sealed for 4,400 years - or more - it means, unlike many others, it's not been subject to the acts of looting that have gone on in Egyptian tombs over the past century, ever since the area became a source of public fascination.

Sculptures in the tomb in Saqqara Necropolis in Giza, Egypt.
PA

National Geographic reports that the owner of the tomb served King Neferirkare, who ruled during the Old Kingdom's fifth dynasty.

As well as the name, the hieroglyphs that have been carved into the lintel stone above the tomb door are reported to reveal the deceased's titles, including 'royal purification priest', 'royal supervisor' and 'inspector of the sacred boat'.

In the gallery of the tomb, the walls are covered with paintings, sculptures and inscriptions, with Mostafa Waziri explaining: "The colour is almost intact even though the tomb is almost 4,400 years old."

Guests enter the recently discovered tomb in Egypt.
PA

Five shafts were found in the tomb by Egyptian archaeologists - one was already open and contained nothing inside, however the others are completely sealed and they present exciting prospects for new discoveries.

Waziri added: "This shaft should lead to a coffin or a sarcophagus of the owner of the tomb."

It indicates that the other shafts could contain items that belonged to the high priest in life and were sent to the afterlife with him - as was believed by the Egyptians.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: World News, egypt, Interesting