Egypt, French-Egyptian mission discovers splendid jewels in Karnak temple

Major archaeological discovery in Egypt where the Franco-Egyptian archaeological mission of the Centre Franco-Égyptien d’Étude des Temples de Karnak (CFEETK, French-Egyptian Center for the Study of the Temples of Karnak), in collaboration with the Supreme Council of Archaeology and the French National Center for Scientific Research, was able to uncover several pieces of jewelry dating back to the early XXVI Dynasty (672-525 B.C.C.), during excavation work carried out by the mission in the northwestern sector of the Karnak temples.

The archaeologists, in particular, found a small pottery container that was broken, yet in excellent condition, inside which jewelry in excellent condition was found, including several gold rings, small figurines and gilded amulets. In particular, the collection features a rare triptych depicting the triad of Theban deities-Amon, Mut, and Khonsu. In addition, metal brooches and amulets depicting deities in the form of animals were discovered, along with numerous decorative beads, some of which are coated in gold.

The collaboration between the Egyptian and French sides, especially as it is part of a major project involving the Karnak temples, which aims to develop the archaeological area, the museum, and improve the efficiency of services to enhance the tourist experience at the site as well. As part of this development plan, the tourist routes have been modernized, a new lighting system has been installed, and the shrine of Amenhotep I has been restored and reinstalled in the site’s open-air museum. These efforts aim not only to preserve the historical heritage but also to make the Karnak complex an even more attractive destination for domestic and international visitors.

The secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mohamed Ismail Khaled, noted that this discovery contributes significantly to expanding knowledge of the temple and its evolution during the first millennium BCE. He said the recovered objects will provide researchers with a clearer understanding of religious life and the use of amulets and jewelry in Egyptian society during the XXVI Dynasty.

The archaeological team, led by Abdel Ghaffar Wagdy, director general of Luxor Antiquities and head of the mission on behalf of Egypt, has begun the work of restoring and documenting the discovered pieces. Once this process is completed, the artifacts are expected to be displayed at the Luxor Museum, allowing visitors to appreciate their historical and artistic value.

On the French side, mission director Jérémie Hourdin explained that ongoing excavations in the northern area of Karnak have revealed large mud-brick structures probably used as warehouses or workshops related to temple activities. These buildings, which also date back to the XXVI Dynasty, provide valuable information about the organization and operation of the complex during that era.

Egypt, French-Egyptian mission discovers splendid jewels in Karnak temple

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