A recent archaeological expedition involving Egyptian and Italian researchers has unveiled remarkable Greco-Roman tombs in Aswan, close to the Aga Khan Mausoleum. This discovery, which includes the impressive limestone sarcophagus of a high-ranking official named Ka-Mesiu, offers new insights into burial practices during periods of foreign rule in ancient Egypt. The tomb is noted for its meticulous preservation and elaborate architectural style, making it one of the most significant finds in the area.
The joint excavation, which has been ongoing since 2019 by the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the University of Milan, focuses on the necropolis surrounding the Aga Khan Mausoleum. Among the recently discovered sites, Tomb No. 38 stands out for its intricate design, reflecting the evolution of funerary traditions influenced by Ptolemaic and Roman cultures.
Tomb No. 38 showcases advanced engineering, accessible via a nine-step stone staircase leading down over two meters. Mudbrick benches flanking the entrance likely supported funerary offerings, illustrating the careful planning behind ancient burials.
At the center lies Ka-Mesiu’s magnificent limestone sarcophagus, almost two meters tall, adorned with an anthropoid lid featuring a finely detailed human face and rich painted decorations. The sarcophagus bears two columns of pristine hieroglyphic inscriptions, which not only honor local deities but also share vital details about the tomb’s owner and his family. The hieroglyphics confirm that Ka-Mesiu served as a high-ranking official, with references to family members suggesting the tomb functioned as a familial crypt over generations.
Several mummies, including children, have also been found within the tomb. These remains are slated for CT scans and biological studies during the upcoming excavation season to delve deeper into their histories and health. The findings reflect a considerable social hierarchy evident in burial locations.
Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled noted that different social classes were represented in the necropolis, with elite families positioned atop the plateau, and middle-class burials occurring lower down. This rich archaeological site continues to provide valuable insight into ancient Egyptian mortuary practices and social stratification through varying historical periods.