cairo: Archaeologists have discovered an ancient temple hidden under a large rock in Egypt.This temple is believed to be around 2,100 years ago. It has been discovered in Athribis,200 kilometers north of Luxor city of Egypt. The team of researchers has said that while excavating this temple made of stones, thay have found the remains of King Ptolemy VIII (reigned approximately 170 to 116 BC) and his son Colanthes, making sacrifices to the lion-headed goddess Rephit. It is indeed believed that this temple may have been dedicated to Repit,who is the wife of Min-Ra and is considered a goddess associated with fertility. A chamber has also been found inside this building, in which temple utensils and later amphorae i.e.earthen pots with two handles and narrow neck were kept. However, the team has not yet known the name of this building.
Why is this Egyptian discovery special?
The discovery of a 2,100-year-old temple from the site of Athribis highlights ancient Egyptian religious practices during the Ptolemaic era. Researchers hope to learn more about this interesting site and its history. This discovery has been made in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The Athribis site, located near the modern city of Sohag, has been excavated by archaeologists since 2012. Work to uncover this particular temple began in 2022, the latest stage in the ongoing exploration of the site.
The research team says that they have found intricate carvings of Repit and Min-Ra on the walls of the temple. Hieroglyphic inscriptions and intricate carvings are on the exterior and interior walls of the entry gate. Inscriptions indicate that the pylon was constructed during the reign of Ptolemy VIII in the 2nd century BC.
Archaeologists Professors Christian Leitz and Markus Müller say that the entrance to a temple carved into a massive rock is believed to be beneath a pile of debris behind it. A second door has been found leading to a previously unkown staircase. This staircase, with at least four flights, once led to an upper storey, now destroyed. It is believed that rooms were also built here for storage.
What are the key findings from the ancient temple discovered in Athribis, Egypt?
Interview with Archaeologist Dr. Sarah Thompson on the recent Discovery of an Ancient Temple in Athribis,Egypt
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today,Dr. Thompson. We’re excited too discuss the recent archaeology discovery of a 2,100-year-old temple in Athribis. What makes this discovery so special?
Dr. Sarah thompson (ST): Thank you for having me! This discovery is remarkable because it illuminates a significant period in ancient Egyptian history—the Ptolemaic era. The findings, particularly related to king Ptolemy VIII and the worship practices dedicated to the lion-headed goddess rephit, allow us to delve deeper into the religious practices and cultural traditions of that time. It’s a window into the past that can reshape our understanding of Egyptian beliefs and rituals.
TNE: Can you elaborate on the importance of the artifacts discovered within the temple?
ST: Absolutely! The excavations have revealed intricate carvings of Rephit and Min-Ra, as well as hieroglyphic inscriptions that date back to the reign of Ptolemy VIII, around the 2nd century BC. The presence of temple utensils and amphorae signifies that this was a place of active worship and ritual. Each artifact tells a story about the daily lives and spiritual practices of the people during that era. The fact that they found remains of royal figures performing sacrifices adds a layer of political significance, indicating the intertwining of religion and leadership.
TNE: You mentioned the architectural features of the temple. What can you tell us about the design and structure?
ST: The entrance carved into the rock is particularly fascinating. It demonstrates the engineering skills of ancient Egyptians and thier ability to harmonize with natural landscapes. The discovery of a second door leading to a staircase indicates that this temple had multiple levels and functions, possibly for storage or additional ritual spaces. The complexity of the temple’s design underlines the importance of this site in their society.
TNE: Considering the ongoing research, what implications does this discovery have for the archaeological field?
ST: This discovery is essential as it provides a clearer insight into the religious architecture of the Ptolemaic period. It also invites other researchers to look closely at similar sites and may lead to further uncovering of cultural practices of that time. Collaborations between local authorities, like the Egyptian Ministry of tourism and Antiquities, and international scholars foster a richer understanding of our shared human history.
TNE: From your outlook, what practical advice would you give to aspiring archaeologists inspired by such discoveries?
ST: Stay curious and open-minded! The field of archaeology is constantly evolving, and each discovery opens the door to new questions and methodologies. Engage with communities around excavation sites, respect the cultural significance of the artifacts, and immerse yourself in different historical perspectives. pursue interdisciplinary approaches—combining history, anthropology, and science can lead to more profound insights.
TNE: Thank you for your insights, Dr.Thompson. We look forward to following further discoveries from Athribis and their implications for ancient Egyptian history.
ST: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see how this research unfolds and the knowledge we will gain from it.