Two Ancient High Official Father and Son Tombs Opened at Pyramids Area in Egypt

Ancient Origins

Two important tombs of Egyptian high officials found in the Pyramids Archaeological Area of Egypt have been opened for the first time since 2007, revealing beautiful artwork and scenes depicting ancient craftsmen.
The tombs had been discovered in 1925, but were closed in 2007 due to political upheaval in Egypt. They were reopened this week in the western cemetery of Giza by Minister of Antiquities Mamdouh Al-Damatty, reports Daily News Egypt.
Waad Allah Abul Ela, head of the Projects Department at the Antiquities Ministry told The Cairo Post, “The first tomb belonged to Emery, a high priest and administrative overseer of the royal court during the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (2589 B.C.-2566 B.C.) while the second belonged to Nefer bau Ptah, Emery’s eldest son who was an overseer of the royal estates and a superintendent of the royal palace during the 5th Dynasty (2494 B.C.-2345 B.C.)”
Both of the tombs were constructed in Old Kingdom form. The tomb architecture and the art within depicts ritual life at that time.
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The standing statue of Emery. Credit: Ministry of Antiques

Nefer Ptah’s tomb is made up of five rooms and a crypt. It covers “an area of approximately 144 m² and reaches a height of 4.6 m,” according to the Ministry of Antiques Press Office. A life-size rock statue is carved into a wall within the first hall.
Emery’s tomb was built with limestone blocks and contains vivid and colorful scenes of sculptors, carpenters and goldsmiths. The images represent the everyday life and practices of Emery and his family.
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Restoration works have been performed over four years by the Ministry of Antiquities’ Projects Sector, including: the reinforcement of walls; the installation of lighting and ventilation systems; the addition of new ceilings and roofs; and the laying of new wooden floors. Graffiti was removed from the walls, and original faded paintings were restored and strengthened.

The two tombs were discovered in 1925 and are now being reopened to visitors. Credit: Ministry of Antiques

Certainly there is no lack of mysterious and amazing tombs to be highlighted in Egypt, and this reopening has been done with the hope of focusing attention on the many interesting sights (and sites) in Egypt that are less frequented by tourists.
Recently, researchers have been investigating the tomb of a long lost Pharaoh so ancient only his name is known, unearthing a massive grave in the West Bank of the Nile Valley of the Kings containing more than 50 royal Egyptians, and discovering an enormous ancient reproduction of the mythical Tomb of Osiris as described by Egyptian legend, complete with multiple shafts and chambers.
Minister Al-Damatty says the plan is to “develop the Pyramids Area as a whole” in order to attract local and international tourists. With such exciting discoveries revealing the rich history of Egypt, this may encourage visitors to make the trip to experience it themselves.
Featured Image: A striking relief showing daily activities in the tomb of Nefer Ptah. Credit: Ministry of Antiques