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Image Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Cache of 22 Sarcophagi of the Singers of Amun and Eight Sealed Papyri Discovered in Luxor
A joint Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered an exceptional funerary cache in the Qurna area on Luxor’s West Bank. The discovery includes 22 polychrome wooden sarcophagi still containing their mummies, along with eight sealed papyrus scrolls found inside a ceramic vessel.
The cache was located in the southwestern corner of the courtyard of the tomb of Seneb. Archaeologists revealed a rectangular rock-cut chamber used as a collective burial deposit. The coffins were arranged in ten horizontal rows, with lids separated from the boxes to maximize space — evidence of deliberate spatial planning.
The sarcophagi are attributed to the Third Intermediate Period (c. 1070–715 BCE), spanning Dynasties XXI–XXV. Inscriptions largely identify the deceased as “singers” or “female singers of Amun,” suggesting they belonged to a religious-musical group attached to the Theban cult of Amun during a politically fragmented era.
Researchers believe the chamber functioned as a secondary burial deposit, possibly created when earlier tombs were looted or reorganized. Ceramic vessels likely used in mummification rituals were also recovered.
The eight papyri — some still bearing intact clay seals — are among the most significant elements of the discovery. Their contents remain under restoration and study, but preliminary assessments suggest they may include versions of the Book of the Dead or other religious texts. Administrative or literary documents have not been ruled out.
Due to humidity and insect damage, urgent conservation measures were undertaken to stabilize the wooden coffins and secure the painted stucco layers. Detailed documentation and stratigraphic recording are ongoing.
Once restoration is complete, the artifacts are expected to be displayed in Egyptian museums, possibly including the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization or the Grand Egyptian Museum, with the possibility that some pieces remain in Luxor.
Published on: 02-03-2026
Edited by: Abdulmnam Samakie
Source: LBV Magazine