Monday, 25 May 2026
Egyptian mission unearths remarkable tomb near Bubasteion in Saqqara
An Egyptian archaeological mission has unearthed a significant ancient tomb and other astonishing artifacts at the rocky edge south of the Bubasteion in Saqqara, just 500 meters from the famous cat goddess Bastet's temple complex.
Akhbar Alyoum reported that the team uncovered large collections of votive offerings to Bastet, the ancient Egyptian feline goddess, as well as hundreds of remarkably preserved anthropoid wooden coffins. These coffins, shaped as human figures, were found within burial chambers at varying depths—between 12 and 14 meters—accessed by rock-cut shafts.
The mission has also identified workshops used for mummification, suggesting the newly discovered tomb’s owner may have been directly involved in these sacred activities. This insight adds to our understanding of the funerary traditions practiced at Saqqara.
How did the discovery happen?
This major discovery was prompted by heavy rainstorms that struck the Saqqara plateau in March and October 2022. The rainwater carved deep cracks through the sandy covering, exposing a surprisingly smooth section of rock. This led archaeologists to suspect a hidden tomb in the area, and subsequent research revealed no prior documentation or excavation here—making this a truly new and unprecedented find.
Location and historical context
The new tomb is located north of the tomb of Padiamenope (Bakenrenef), a minister under Pharaoh Psamtik I (around 664–610 BC, 26th Dynasty), celebrated for its decorated walls featuring scenes from the Book of the Dead. Nearby are other significant tombs from the Late Period, explored by Italian excavations in the 20th century, reinforcing the significance of this part of Saqqara.
The Tomb of Bakenhuri ("Servant of Horus")
Excavations, which began in late November 2022, soon revealed stone blocks bearing the name of the tomb’s owner: Bakenhuri, meaning "Servant of Horus." This tomb had never before been recorded in any ancient or modern source.
Architectural description
Bakenhuri’s tomb features an open courtyard with two pillars displaying “Djed” (stability) symbols and topped with the “Ba” bird, symbolizing the soul—a motif resembling the tomb of Nemtimes, chief steward during the reign of Ramesses II. The courtyard walls, adorned with decorative bands, include hieroglyphic inscriptions and scenes of Bakenhuri seated beside his wife, Tai-Bakit, before an offering table.
Inside, a rock-cut hall supported by pillars carved with the head of the cow goddess Hathor—bearing the sun disk between her horns—further displays scenes of devotion and hieroglyphic prayers. A small tunnel once dug by ancient tomb robbers leads into a neighboring burial chamber, hinting at even more to be discovered.
Who was Bakenhuri?
Though previously unknown to scholars, Bakenhuri held impressive titles: “True Royal Scribe Beloved of the King,” “Supervisor of the Wab Priests,” “Chief Lector Priest,” and “Head of the Mummification Workshop in the Sacred Place.” The inscriptions show that his wife, Tai-Bakit, also served as a “Singer of Amun-Ra.”
Conservation measures and future excavations
The tomb’s architectural elements, including the important decorated pillars, have been stabilized and protected by researchers from the Supreme Council of Antiquities. The site was backfilled with sand after initial documentation to safeguard it from environmental damage. Full exploration and mapping of the tomb, including the burial shaft and its detailed decoration, will be part of future archaeological projects.
About Bubasteion and the surrounding area
The Bubasteion at Saqqara, named for the goddess Bastet, was the center for her worship from the 26th Dynasty through the Greco-Roman period. The site includes a magnificent temple complex, as well as other sacred buildings such as the temple of Anubis, the jackal-headed god of mummification.
A site of enduring mystery and significance
Saqqara continues to yield remarkable archaeological treasures, providing new glimpses into the rituals, beliefs, and craftsmanship of ancient Egyptians. The newly discovered tomb of Bakenhuri is a valuable addition to Egypt’s rich archaeological heritage and promises even more secrets yet to be revealed.