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Polish archaeologists find unknown tomb in Egypt

PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge 10.12.2012 10:18
Polish archaeologists have discovered the entrance to a previously unknown tomb during excavation work in Egypt.

Saqqara:
Saqqara: photo - wikipedia

The discovery was made at the historic necropolis of Saqqara, which had functioned as a burial ground for the Ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis.

Archaeologists had been carrying out excavations at the tomb of a dignitary named Ichi, who served at the court of Pharaoh Pepi over 4000 years ago.

The newly discovered tomb, which is connected to that of Ichi, lies within an area referred to as “the Dry Moat.”

Archaeologists had long wondered whether the high rock walls of the Dry Moat might contain a series of tombs.

“Actually none of us believed in this thesis,” commented leader of the excavations Professor Karol Mysliwiec, from Poland's Institute of Mediterranean and Oriental Studies, in an interview with the Polish Press Agency (PAP).

“Our surprise was all the greater given that no similar tomb has been discovered to date in Egypt,” he added.

So far, the team has only managed to uncover part of the entrance to the tomb. Inside, rubble climbs almost to the ceiling.

The second phase of the excavation will take place next year. (nh)

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