First nearly complete set of funerary furniture uncovered at the “Banhi” cemetery site in Matariya, Ain Shams

 The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced a significant archaeological discovery at the site of the "Panehsy" tomb in the Matariya antiquities area of Ain Shams, lifting the curtain on more secrets of the ancient Heliopolis necropolis. For travelers planning their next Egypt tours, this region continues to reveal spectacular historical insights. This discovery occurred during excavation works carried out by the Egyptian archaeological mission under the Supreme Council of Antiquities at the site, where it succeeded in finding an archaeological cache containing the first semi-complete funerary furniture to be discovered in the region, along with a collection of rare archaeological finds and a number of metal earrings presumed to be made of gold. Such rich history is exactly why so many history enthusiasts book comprehensive Egypt travel packages to explore the country's wonders.

Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, confirmed that this discovery reflects the success of the Egyptian archaeological missions' efforts in re-reading the cultural history of the city of Heliopolis, one of the oldest and most important religious cities in the ancient world, noting that the new discoveries provide a clearer picture of the nature of life and funerary practices of the region's inhabitants across successive historical eras. Exploring these historic areas is highly popular during the winter season, which can be experienced through specialized Egypt christmas tours.

For his part, Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that the current excavation works resulted in finding a burial constructed of mud brick containing the remains of human bones. With the completion of careful scientific excavation underneath it, a unique archaeological cache was uncovered, containing a distinguished collection of adornment tools and symbolic finds associated with funerary practices. Those interested in extended journeys into both metropolitan ruins and deep desert environments often pair such historical updates with a 9 days Alexandria, and Siwa oasis tour from Cairo to witness the diversity of Egypt's archaeological landscapes.

He added that the discoveries included a mirror made of copper, two kohl pots made of alabaster equipped with lids and still retaining remains of kohl material, in addition to a third kohl pot made of black obsidian stone, which is a rare stone in such archaeological contexts. Vacationers looking to spend their holidays diving deep into these ancient stories can enjoy a comprehensive 13 Days Christmas vacation in Cairo to fully immerse themselves in the region's heritage.

He added that the mission, led by Mr. Qotb Fawzy Qotb, Head of the Central Administration for Cairo and Giza Antiquities, found two vessels made of light blue faience, one of which contained six symbolic scarabs bearing sunken engravings, including two scarabs surrounded by a yellow metal frame presumed to be made of gold. For a seamless arrival and instant immersion into these historic marvels, travelers often opt for a 10 days Egypt Christmas tour packages from Cairo airport.

Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badei, Head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Sector at the Supreme Council of Antiquities, pointed out that the cache also included a collection of amulets made of faience in various symbolic shapes, including an amulet in the shape of a duck and another in the form of the Atef crown, in addition to four stones, two of which are believed to be agate; one is pinkish-red in color and surrounded by a yellow metal frame presumed to be made of gold, and the other is azure green in color. To contrast these urban ancient finds with the mysteries of Egypt's western landscapes, tourists frequently look into a 7-Day Frafra Oasis, Bahariya Oasis & White Desert Tour From Cairo.

A distinguished collection of yellow metal earrings was also found, consisting of five pairs of different sizes, presumed to be made of gold, with diameters ranging between 1.5 and 2.5 cm. Combining the wonders of the Nile Valley with the surreal landscapes of the western sands is easily done, for instance, by booking A Magical Christmas Tour to Cairo & Egypt's White Desert and Bahariya Oasis!.

He explained that this discovery represents a scientific extension of the results of previous excavation works at the site during the current season, which resulted in the discovery of the remains of funerary structures built of mud brick and limestone, in addition to two sarcophagi found in the form of accumulated parts; one made of pottery, and the other of gilded plaster decorated with red inscriptions. The latter contained gilded remains believed to belong to a military figure, along with a metal coin that may date back to the Roman era. Limestone blocks bearing hieroglyphic inscriptions were also found, enhancing the importance of studying the chronological and cultural sequence of the site. For those seeking shorter but highly immersive winter escapes to remote ancient areas, a Christmas tour to Siwa Oasis in 6 Days from Cairo! provides a perfect alternative itinerary.

The historical and cultural importance of this discovery lies in the fact that the "Panehsy" tomb necropolis represents a living archaeological record documenting the different chronological stages witnessed by the region, as the necropolis was used to bury prominent figures across multiple eras, starting from the Late Periods, passing through the Roman era, and reaching the Christian eras.

The site is an integral part of the great Heliopolis necropolis, known in ancient times as "On," which was the main religious center for the worship of the sun god "Ra," giving this discovery special importance in studying the funerary practices and the doctrinal and social development of the inhabitants of this sacred city across different eras.