Gold-covered Mummy Unearthed After 4,300 Years: Ancient Egypt’s Hidden Secrets Unveiled

This mummy was considered one of the most ancient and well-preserved non-royal individuals ever unearthed in the region.

One of four newly discovered tombs at the Saqqara archaeological site south of Cairo Photo Credit: Getty Images

Archaeological excavations in Egypt have led to the remarkable discovery of a gold leaf-covered mummy, identified as Hekashepes, entombed within a sarcophagus that remained sealed for over 4,300 years.

This mummy was considered one of the most ancient and well-preserved non-royal individuals ever unearthed in the region. The find, about a year ago, was made at a burial site in Saqqara, approximately 50 feet down a burial shaft, which has also yielded three other tombs, including one belonging to a notable figure known as a ‘secret keeper’.

Among the other mummies retrieved was that of Khnumdjedef, who held multiple prestigious roles including priest and supervisor of noble estates. According to the BBC report, another notable burial was attributed to Meri, a senior palace official conferred with the title ‘secret keeper’, signifying his ability to conduct special religious ceremonies. The fourth identified remains belonged to a judge and scribe named Fetek, accompanied by what are reported to be some of the largest statues discovered in this vicinity.

The archaeological team, led by esteemed Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass, has noted these findings date back to between the 25th and 22nd centuries BC. Dr. Ali Abu Deshish, another archaeologist involved in the excavation, remarked, “This discovery is so important as it connects the kings with the people living around them.”

Saqqara, an area of significant archaeological importance, served as a burial ground for more than three millennia and is now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lies within the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis and houses numerous pyramids, including the renowned Step Pyramid, located near the site of the current discoveries.

In a surprising turn of events, this revelation coincides with an announcement from Luxor, where experts uncovered a complete residential city dating from the Roman era, complete with buildings, towers, and workshops housing metal tools and Roman currency.

Recent years have witnessed numerous significant archaeological endeavours in Egypt, part of a broader initiative by the government to rejuvenate its tourism sector. The anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum later this year aims to attract up to 30 million visitors annually by 2028. Nonetheless, certain critics argue that the government may be prioritising extensive media-friendly discoveries over rigorous academic research, potentially undermining the true purpose of these archaeological pursuits.