Archaeologists discover 4,400-year-old tomb in Egypt's Saqqara

A joint Spanish-Egyptian archaeological mission has discovered a 4,400-year-old double mastaba tomb in the Saqqara necropolis, southwest of Cairo. The excavation, led by the Autonomous University of Barcelona and Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, uncovered the structure in the Mariette necropolis area.

The tomb dates back to the late Fifth Dynasty during the reign of Pharaoh Djedkare Isesi. It was commissioned by a high-ranking official named Yunmen (or Younmin) for himself and his father, Iti, a lower-ranking official. The discovery is considered significant for providing insights into the social and administrative life of ancient Egypt, as well as the transmission of power and kinship among the elite.

Archaeologists noted the exceptional state of preservation, highlighting that many of the scenes and reliefs have retained their original colours. The decorations depict agricultural activities, processions with offerings, and various animals, including donkeys. The tomb features two funerary chapels and a high-quality architrave.