A team of French and Swiss archaeologists has discovered the ancient tomb of a royal Egyptian doctor near Saqqara, a vast archaeological site south of Cairo.
The tomb, dating back over 4,000 years to Egypt’s Old Kingdom, offers rare insights into the life and work of an elite medical figure who served during the reign of King Pepi I, a ruler of the 6th Dynasty.
Buried beneath the desert sands, the tomb is notable for its intricate carvings, vibrant paintings, and detailed depictions of funerary traditions. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities confirmed the discovery, describing it as a significant addition to the understanding of ancient Egyptian medicine and rituals.
Role and status of the physician
The inscriptions and artwork within the tomb reveal that the physician held multiple prestigious roles. He served as the palace’s chief doctor and also acted as a sorcerer for Serket, the goddess associated with healing venomous bites and stings.
His knowledge extended to dentistry and the use of medicinal plants, reflecting the advanced medical practices of the era.
According to the ministry, these titles underscore the physician’s high standing in the royal court. The tomb’s design and artistic details further highlight the importance of his role in both medicine and religious ceremonies.
Artistic and historical significance
Despite evidence that looters entered the tomb in ancient times, its artwork remains remarkably intact. One wall features a carved and brightly painted symbolic door, an element commonly found in tombs to represent the passage to the afterlife.
Other painted scenes include depictions of funeral items, furniture, and an extensive list of offerings, providing valuable insights into burial practices of the time.
The ceiling is another remarkable feature, painted to imitate luxurious granite stones. This design reflects the aesthetic sensibilities and craftsmanship of the tomb’s creators. Archaeologists describe the preservation of these features as exceptional, given the tomb’s age.
Ongoing exploration and future discoveries
The French-Swiss mission began exploring the Saqqara site in 2022. Their work aims to uncover more details about the physician’s life and the broader context of the Old Kingdom. Researchers believe the tomb’s contents can deepen understanding of ancient Egyptian society, particularly its medical and ceremonial practices.
Recent discoveries at Saqqara continue to highlight the site’s historical importance. A joint Egyptian-Japanese mission announced the unearthing of ancient tombs, mastabas, and artifacts dating to the late Second and early Third Dynasties and the New Kingdom. Finds include an alabaster dish, a limestone sealing, and burial items reflecting ancient practices.
Excavations in previously discovered Greco-Roman catacombs revealed mummified remains, terracotta models, and fragments of figurines, showcasing the site’s use across multiple periods. The team’s efforts are ongoing as they continue to examine the site for additional artifacts and insights.