Image Credit: State Information Service (Egypt)

Remains of a Fifth Dynasty Sun Temple Valley Complex Discovered Near Cairo

An archaeological mission working in the Abu Ghurab area south of Cairo has uncovered substantial remains of the Valley Temple associated with the Sun Temples of King Nyuserre Ini, one of the most important rulers of Egypt’s Fifth Dynasty.
The site lies between Saqqara and Giza within the wider Memphite necropolis. Excavations have revealed more than half of the temple complex, covering an area exceeding 1,000 square meters, making it one of the largest Valley Temples known from this period. The structure features a distinctive architectural layout that sets it apart from other royal temples of the Old Kingdom.
Archaeologists uncovered the main entrance of the temple beneath a thick layer of Nile silt, along with its original limestone floor. Additional finds include column bases, granite architectural elements likely belonging to an entrance portico, stone wall cladding, doorways, and lintels preserved in their original positions.
Earlier work at the site had already identified a well-preserved gateway and an internal staircase leading to the roof, suggesting the presence of a secondary entrance. During the current excavation season, researchers also uncovered a sloping ramp believed to have linked the temple directly to the Nile or one of its ancient branches, following patterns seen in other Fifth Dynasty temple complexes.
Among the notable artifacts recovered are wooden gaming pieces from the ancient board game Senet, fragments of inscribed limestone, and a large stone lintel bearing hieroglyphic texts that include the name of King Nyuserre and references to religious festivals held at the temple.
Pottery remains dating from the late Old Kingdom through the early Middle Kingdom were also found. Evidence suggests that after the temple ceased functioning as a royal cult center, the site was reused as a residential settlement during the First Intermediate Period. This reuse offers rare insights into everyday life in the Memphis region during a historically obscure phase of ancient Egypt.
Further excavation seasons are planned to uncover additional parts of the temple and deepen understanding

Published on: 13-12-2025

Edited by: Abdulmnam Samakie

Source: State Information Service (Egypt)