A team of archeologists, searching for a mummy breakthrough, has discovered 83 graves of ancient Egyptians who were buried surprisingly. In most cases, human remains were caused in sarcophagi; however, the remains found in the new cemeteries were encased in clay coffins.
Initial tests have shown that eighty graves can be linked to a civilization known as Bhutto or Lower Egypt, which lived from 4000 to 3500 B.C. The graves were found in a site located in the Dakahlia region of Northern Egypt.
The other three graves are a bit more recent as they were traced to the Naqada III period, which lasted from 3200 to 3000 B.C. Clay coffins from Naqada III don’t tend to be found quite often in the region during since during this era wealthy people were buried in wood or mud-brick coffins. In contrast, poor people were put in shallow holes.
Several Egyptian Skeletons Have Been Found In Surprising Clay Coffins
It is known that the Naqada culture is quite old, as it appeared in a predynastic Egypt during the Copper Age. The presence of such a significant number of graves suggests that a large number of people lived in the area, and it is thought that more graves could be uncovered in the future.
A selection of artifacts has also been found in the Naqada III graves. Among the items, we can count oyster shells, several handmade pottery items, bowls made out of kohl, and others. Interestingly, some of the artifacts appear to be quite younger, with some being built from 1630 to 1523 B.C. The archeologists found ovens, stoves, and foundations of mud-brick buildings.
Such discoveries can offer valuable data about the way in which people lived in the past. Many cultures feature specific traits that haven’t been found in other zones, and some of them can be quite remarkable. More discoveries could take place in the area in the future.
As our second lead editor, Anna C. Mackinno provides guidance on the stories Great Lakes Ledger reporters cover. She has been instrumental in making sure the content on the site is clear and accurate for our readers. If you see a particularly clever title, you can likely thank Anna. Anna received a BA and and MA from Fordham University.