Exciting news from Luxor! Egyptian archaeologists have announced the discovery of three tombs dating to the New Kingdom era at Dra’ Abu El-Naga, on Luxor’s west bank. The discovery, hailed as a major scientific and cultural milestone by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, is expected to draw fresh international interest to Egypt’s ancient heritage.
The find — made entirely by Egyptian excavation teams — highlights the growing expertise of local archaeologists and reinforces Egypt’s global reputation as a leading destination for cultural tourism.
The tombs, now undergoing detailed study and documentation, date to different points within the New Kingdom period(c. 1550–1070 BCE). Inscriptions have already revealed the identities of the tombs’ occupants:
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One tomb belonged to Amun-em-Ipet, an official linked to the Temple of Amun during the Ramesside period.
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The second tomb belonged to Baki, supervisor of the grain silo during the 18th Dynasty.
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The third tomb belonged to a man known as S, who held senior administrative roles including mayor of the northern oases and scribe during the 18th Dynasty.
Though some tomb decorations were damaged over time, surviving scenes of offerings, banquets, and funerary ritualsreflect classic New Kingdom funerary art. Architectural details of the tombs reveal fascinating design features — from altered niches and burial shafts to unfinished chapels.
Egypt’s latest discovery underscores Luxor’s enduring importance as a source of archaeological treasures and reflects the impressive achievements of Egyptian-led missions in exploring and preserving the country’s rich ancient past.
