Ancient Tombs, Storerooms, and "House of Life" Discovered at Ramseum Temple in Luxor

A joint French and Egyptian archaeological team has unearthed ancient tombs, storage rooms, and a "House of Life" at the Ramseum Temple [Ramesseum] on Luxor's [Al-Uqsur] west bank in Egypt. These discoveries shed light on the lives, learning, and funerary practices of ancient Egyptians. The graves, dating to Egypt's Third Intermediate Period (c. 1069–664 BC), feature burial chambers and deep wells. Funerary objects, including jars, tools, and pottery statues, were found inside. Some tombs held multiple coffins, and scattered human remains were recovered. Underground cellars and storerooms contained essentials like olive oil, honey, animal fat, and wine. Dozens of wine jar labels indicate an organized storage and redistribution system linked to temple life. According to Dr. Mohamed Ismail, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Archaeology, these findings provide insight into both the ceremonial and practical aspects of ancient Egyptian life. The "House of Life," a school connected to major temples for learning and recordkeeping, was also discovered. Fragments of student drawings and toys offer evidence of education within the Ramseum. Researchers mapped the school's original design, making it a significant find. The discoveries were made near the mortuary temple of Ramses II [Ramses the Great], also known as the "Million Year Temple." The site continues to reveal details about Egypt's religious, social, and economic life during the New Kingdom period (c. 1550-1070 BC). Dr. Hisham Alithi, head of the Egyptian side of the mission, stated that traces of a storage and redistribution system were uncovered. Goods stored at the temple were likely shared with residents and workers, including craftsmen under royal supervision. Excavations revealed that the area was occupied before Ramses II built his temple. It was later looted and repurposed as a priestly burial ground. During the Ptolemaic (305-30 BC) and Roman periods, it was used by quarry workers. Dr. Hesham Leithy, Head of the Conservation and Documentation Sector at the Supreme Council of Antiquities, announced the rediscovery of the "Sahtab Ayb Ra" tomb, originally found by English archaeologist Cayple in 1896. The tomb, dating back to the Middle Kingdom (c. 2050-1710 BC), features detailed wall scenes of the tomb owner's funeral. The French-Egyptian team has been working at the Ramseum since 1991, with their mission ongoing.