An Egyptian-Austrian archaeological mission working at the Temple of Kom Ombo has unearthed a remarkable discovery – an administrative facility dating back to the First Intermediate Period (2181-2050 BC). This significant find sheds light on the agricultural and commercial importance of Kom Ombo during this era.
Kom Ombo, once known as Nubt (meaning “Golden City”), is renowned for its temple dedicated to various deities, including the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Haroeris. In 2017, a collaborative project was launched by the Austrian Archaeological Institute and the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to delve deeper into the secrets of the ancient city and its surroundings.
The newly discovered facility has been identified as a major administrative center, most likely used for the storage and distribution of grain. This conclusion is supported by the presence of more than 20 large, conical silos unearthed at the site.
“The discovery is unique,” stated Dr. Mostafa Waziri, Secretary-General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. “It reflects the crucial role Kom Ombo played as a center for agriculture and commerce during the First Intermediate Period. The sheer size of the administrative complex suggests a substantial population residing in the city.”
The well-preserved architectural elements of the silos – including domes, ladders, and storage rooms – offer valuable insights into the construction techniques and storage practices of the time period. Notably, some of the silo walls still stand at a height of two meters.
Dr. Abd El-Moniem, Director of Aswan and Nubia antiquities, elaborated on the discovery in an interview with the Luxor Times. “The exceptional preservation of the silos’ architectural elements is noteworthy,” he said. “Additionally, the presence of rat bones and feces within the storage rooms provides concrete evidence of challenges faced in maintaining grain supplies, such as vermin infestation.”
This discovery adds another layer of understanding to the rich history of Kom Ombo. The well-organized administrative structure for grain storage and distribution underscores the city’s significance as a vital agricultural and economic hub during the First Intermediate Period. Further analysis of the unearthed complex is sure to yield even more fascinating details about this ancient civilization.