Khufu's name found in Saqqara necropolis for the first time

The name of king Khufu ( Cheops) owner of the great pyramid at Giza and one of the important kings of ancient Egypt was found for the first time in Saqqara, the necropolis of ancient Egypt.

Gaballah Ali Gaballah, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Antiquities said that the find was made by a Japanese team working on a site north Saqqara.

The team had reported finding a rock tomb dating back to the 26th dynasty.

According to Zahi Hawas, head of Giza Antiquities the name was found inscribed on an earthenware base which is all what is left from the relics of a statue probably taking the shape of a Sphinx.

He explained that the name was found in a cartouche preceded by the title of King of Upper and Lower Egypt and in front of which was the remains of a lion's legs representing King Khufu.

"It is believed that the statue belongs to the 26th dynasty," said Hawas noting that the latest discoveries indicated that Khufu ruled for 32 years not for 22 years as believed by some Egyptologists.

He also noted that the name was found on scarabees as the priests in this area used to revive the cult of Khufu at about 500 BC when he was worshipped as a god.

The Japanese team has also found a tomb comprising of three rectangular chambers embracing magnificent statues. Among these is one for goddess Sekhmet made of burned clay.

The details of the statue are so wonderful making it among the important statues representing the goddess of war. Two other statues representing god Harbo Qrat in the form of a naked child were found.

Hawas said that the team was expected to make further finds pertaining to the late period in Saqqara.