oldest and most complete mummy found in Egypt

oldest and most complete mummy found in Egypt

The 4,300-year-old mummified remains were recently discovered during ongoing excavations of tombs near the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, some 15 miles from Cairo.
According to reports, a group of archaeologists found what is considered “the oldest mummy found in Egypt” so far. The 4,300-year-old mummified remains were recently discovered during ongoing excavations of tombs near the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, some 15 miles from Cairo.

The mummified remains of a man named “Hekashepes” were discovered in a limestone sarcophagus covered in gold leaf at the bottom of a shaft about 49 feet according to Zahi Hawass, who led the team, Reuters reported.

“This mummy may be the oldest and most complete mummy found in Egypt to date,” said Hawass, a former one of Egypt’s ministers of antiquities.

The tombs date to the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties, around 2686-2181 BCE. C., and Hekashepes was not the only ancient person found during the excavation.

“The most important tomb belongs to Khnumdjedef, an inspector of civil servants, supervisor of nobles, and priest in the pyramid complex of Unas, the last king of the fifth dynasty. The tomb is decorated with scenes of daily life,” Hawass said according to ABC News.

“The second largest tomb belonged to Meri, who held many important titles, such as keeper of secrets and assistant to the great palace leader.”

Multiple statues carved from wood and stone were also found, including what appear to be two couples.
The Saqqara Step Pyramid was the first pyramid built in Egypt 4,700 years ago. Ongoing excavations at Saqqara have unearthed spectacular coffins, mummified lions and even 2,600-year-old halloumi cheese.

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