Many mysteries surround ancient Egypt, and archaeologists have uncovered fascinating findings in 2022. Here are some impactful ancient Egypt discoveries that were found in 2022.
Gold-Tongued Mummies
Live Science notes that mummies with gold tongues were rare in ancient Egypt. Individuals during this period thought that changing normal tongues into gold ones would enable communication with the underworld god, Osiris.
Vibrant Portraits of Mummies
Archaeologists found two full portraits of mummies as they excavated through a necropolis. Alongside these finds were several portraits not full of individuals buried in the ancient cemetery. Experts assume that the deceased was probably elite or middle class because it would have cost a fortune to have such portraits.
Great Water Tunnel
Archaeologists were able to come across a water tunnel under the Taposiris Magna, which is an ancient civilization stationed west of Alexandria. According to the Smithsonian magazine, the tunnel was 4,300 feet long and located 43 feet from the surface.
Queen's Tomb
Another group of archaeologists uncovered the tomb of ancient queen Neith, who was previously unknown. The discovery was made at Saqqara, a Giza archaeological spot. Such a discovery marks the first mention of queen Neith in archaeological documents. This was done during the 100th century of King Tut's tomb discovery.
Falcon Shrine, Headless Falcon Remains, and Inscriptions About Boiling Heads
Spotted along the Red Sea coast were headless falcon remains. Such findings shed insight into a mysterious group called the Blemmyes and their allegiance to Khonsu, the moon god. Science Alert notes show inscriptions spotted on the site revealed certain religious restrictions. The inscription stated how it is improper for heads to be boiled at a specific area. According to researchers, such prohibitions served as a warning not to push through with what was thought to be a profane act.
Gold Artifacts
Upon surveying an Akhetaten burial site, archaeologists discovered a treasure of gold artifacts that included items such as rings and necklaces. Among the artifacts, one piece caught my interest because of its Bes engraving, also referred to as the god of fun. Ancient pictures of this Egyptian deity can be spotted across Egypt. The deity is usually pictured as a dwarf that enjoys partying and playing music. However, more than that, the deity is also pictured as a protector of women as they undergo childbirth.
Tattoos Pertaining to Childbirth
Prior to childbirth, certain Egyptian women would get tattoos for childbirth protection. Experts could catch six examples of such a practice as they delved into Deir el-Medina mummies. While it is generally rare to find prehistoric tattoos, body portions, in this case, were exposed. Such parts included a woman's lower back.
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