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A Unique Find According to Archaeologists
Researchers discovered mummified beetles – belonging to the family of dung beetles – in the city of the dead near Memphis. Never before have mummified beetles been found in this dead city.
Tombs
Researchers discovered beetles during excavations at the edge of the pyramidal complex of King Oeserkaf. Three tombs dating from the New Kingdom period were discovered (this period extends from about 1550 to about 1070 BC). They served as a cemetery for cats during the so-called late period (712 to 332 BC). Four tombs were also discovered from the period of the Old Kingdom (2639 to 2216 BC). Of these four tombs, the one belonging to Khufu-Imhat – he directed the royal buildings – is the most important.
Sarcophagi and mummified beetles. The dung beetles were sacred to the ancient Egyptians because they were supposed to come spontaneously from manure balls (in which beetles lay their eggs). Image: Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities
Manure Coleoptera
In one of the tombs, archaeologists discovered two large beetles of manure in a rectangular sarcophagus closed by a lid. Three beetles were represented on the lid. The two beetles in the sarcophagus were wrapped in flax and were still in very good condition. In a much smaller square sarcophagus, the researchers found a number of mummified beetles
The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities
by about 100 wooden and gold-plated cat figurines. A bronze statue of the goddess of fertility Bastet has also been found. This goddess was often depicted with a cat's head. In addition, sarcophagi with mummified serpents have been discovered. Mummified crocodiles have also been found. Like 1000 amulets dedicated to different gods, including Anubis, Horus and Isis
Writing Instruments
The researchers also discovered writing instruments (pens and ink pots) and papyrus described. On some papers, chapters of the Book of the Dead have been recorded. This book helped the dead find their way into the realm of the dead.
In addition, baskets, pots and remains of people were found in the graves. Just like some "false doors". On one of these doors, the names of two unknown women were found: Subek Sekt and Mafy.
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