Ancient Greek funerary poem discovered in 1,700-year-old Egyptian tomb

Archaeologists have discovered a 1,700-year-old tomb in Egypt’s Dakhla Oasis, near ancient Mothi, containing a rare 19-line funerary poem written in Ancient Greek. The limestone pyramid-shaped monument was built for a high-status couple and likely dates to the late 3rd or early 4th century AD, during the period of Roman rule.

The inscription, found on a stone slab, honors a man named Visixthos, who is described as a “counselor in life” and praised for his wisdom. Researchers believe he may have been a judge. The poem includes a poignant lament from his son, Sarapion, who addresses his father with the words, “Listen, father!”, asking him to accept the funerary offerings from his children.

The poem’s grammar is noted for its similarity to Homeric epics, and the use of punctuation suggests a highly educated author. Alongside the Greek text, the tomb contains Egyptian hieroglyphic inscriptions, protective spells, and ceramic objects. A bronze coin featuring Emperor Constantine the Great was also recovered, suggesting the tomb may have been reused in a later period.