Saqqara discovery: 4,400-year-old tomb found in Egypt

A joint Spanish-Egyptian archaeological mission has discovered a 4,400-year-old mastaba in the Mariette Cemetery, north of Saqqara. The tomb dates back to the late Fifth Dynasty during the reign of Pharaoh Djedkare Isesi.

The structure features two funerary chapels. The first belonged to Yunmen, a high-ranking official who served as a judge, court director, and chief scribe responsible for handling petitions and complaints. The second chapel belonged to his father, Iti, a scribe involved in managing agricultural lands and offerings. Researchers suggest the dual tomb reflects the family's social ascent from provincial status to high central administration.

The discovery is notable for its exceptional state of preservation. Many of the wall reliefs, which depict agricultural activities, processions, and animals such as donkeys, have retained their original colors. Archaeologists also recovered a high-quality architrave and funerary texts specifically tailored to the titles and personality of the tomb's owner. The site, though mapped in the 19th century by Auguste Mariette, had never undergone modern, integrated scientific excavation until this season.