Spanish archaeologists, led by Dr. Mayte Mascorro and Dr. Esther Pons Melado from the University of Barcelona and the Ancient Near East Institute, unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts at the historic city of Al Bahnasa in Minya governorate.
The excavations revealed a series of rock-cut tombs dating back to both the Ptolemaic period (305-30 BC) and the Roman period (30 BC-641 AD). These tombs, located in the eastern part of the Upper Cemetery of El-Bahnasa, represent a previously unknown style of burial – directly carved into the bedrock.
“This discovery significantly enhances our understanding of the region’s history,” explains Dr. Mustafa Waziri, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. “The tombs showcase unique burial practices and artistic expressions employed during these periods.”
One of the most remarkable finds is a collection of terracotta statues depicting Isis-Aphrodite, a fusion deity. These statues, adorned with foliage crowns, have never before been unearthed in El-Bahnasa and offer valuable new insights into the region’s artistic traditions and religious beliefs.
The excavations also yielded Roman-era mummies, some adorned with exquisite gilded and colored funeral masks. Intriguingly, golden tongues were discovered inside the mouths of two mummies. This practice, known to have been employed during the Roman era in El-Bahnasa, aimed to symbolically preserve the deceased’s ability to speak in the afterlife.
Beyond the tombs, the archaeological team uncovered captivating wall drawings adorning a ruined structure. These detailed depictions of plants, grapevines, and various animals offer a glimpse into the daily life and cultural significance of Al Bahnasa in ancient times.
“The area undoubtedly holds many more secrets waiting to be unveiled,” remarks Adel Okasah, head of the Central Administration Department for Middle Egypt Antiquities. The Spanish mission plans to continue their work at the site, and future excavations promise to reveal even more about the fascinating history of Al Bahnasa.