Sarcophagus unearthed intact in Beheira

Egyptian archaeologists have unearthed a limestone sarcophagus that has lain undisturbed more than 2,500 years old under houses in the town of Al-Boweiti in Beheira Governorate.

Inside the sarcophagus, which was brought up from a tomb 12 metres underground, was the mummy that of a relative to the governor of Badi Isis.

The gypsum seals under the lid of the sarcophagus had been unbroken since the day of the burial 25 centuries ago.

Zahi Hawass, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Antiquities and head of the excavating team in Beheira, said that judging by the linen and the style of wrapping the mummy dated from the VI dynasty. X-rays of the mummy show up several amulets in the wrappings.

An examination of these amulets would give an idea of religious beliefs of that time, he said

Since there is no limestone in the area, the sarcophagus must have been made and brought from elsewhere, which means that the deceased must have been an important member of the community of Badi Isis, Dr Hawass said, adding that the team expect to find the tomb of the governor's brother within the next few weeks.