First near-complete ancient Egyptian funerary set discovered at Heliopolis necropolis site

Archaeologists unearthed a nearly complete ancient Egyptian funerary set during excavations at the Panhesy Tomb in Heliopolis, Cairo. The discovery, announced by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, marks the first such find in the ancient city, a former religious center dedicated to the worship of Ra.

The funerary set was found beneath a mud-brick burial containing human remains. Accompanying artifacts include a copper mirror, alabaster and obsidian kohl vessels with residue, and several faience items. The ministry stated the discovery provides valuable insight into the daily life and funerary practices of the region's inhabitants across different historical periods.

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It is the first near-complete set to ever be found in the area.

Among the unearthed items are six symbolic scarabs with inscriptions, two scarabs encased in gold, and faience amulets shaped like a duck and the Atef crown of Osiris. Additionally, carnelian and blue-green stones, set in gold, and five pairs of gold earrings were found. These excavations follow previous discoveries of mud-brick and limestone funerary structures and partial coffins, one of which may have belonged to a military figure.

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The discovery further provides insight into the “daily life and funerary practices of the region’s inhabitants across successive historical periods,”