Egyptian archaeologists have discovered a 3000-year-old abandoned city in Egypt, complete with mud brick dwellings, Pharaonic artefacts, and tools. An Egyptian expedition uncovered the mortuary city in the southern province of Luxor. It dates from the 18th dynasty of King Amenhotep III, which is considered the golden age of Ancient Egypt. Many international missions looked for this city but were unable to locate it. Established on the western side of the Nile River, the city was once the Pharaonic empire's main administrative and commercial settlement.
Archaeologists began excavating in the city last year in search of King Tutankhamun's mortuary shrine. Archaeologists discovered mud brick formations that turned out to be a well-preserved big city within weeks. There are said to be city walls and rooms overflowing with everyday utensils. The archaeological layers have been intact for thousands of years, leaving as if it were yesterday by the ancient inhabitants.
On the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, the newly discovered city is situated between King Rameses III's temple and Amenhotep III's colossi. Tutankhamun, Amenhotep III's grandson, and King Ay continued to rule the city.
After the finding
of Tutankhamun's tomb, the discovery of the lost city has been the most
significant archaeological find. When King Tut's tomb in the Valley of the
Kings was found nearly untouched in 1922, he became a household name and helped
rekindle interest in Ancient Egypt. Clay caps for wine vessels, rings, scarabs,
colored pottery, and spinning and weaving tools have also been discovered by
archaeologists. The seal of King Amenhotep III's cartouche, or name insignia,
can be found on certain mud bricks. The city will provide a rare insight into
the lives of ancient Egyptians during their most prosperous era.
The excavation uncovered a plethora of important archaeological finds, including jewelry, colored pottery, scarab beetle amulets, and mud bricks with Amenhotep III seals. The excavations started on the west bank of Luxor, near the Valley of the Kings, some 500 kilometers (300 miles) south of Cairo. Mud brick formations started to emerge in all directions within hours, much to the surprise of the team. What they discovered was the ruins of a major city in excellent shape, with almost full walls and rooms brimming with resources of everyday life.
Several areas or
neighborhoods, including a bakery, an administrative district, and a suburban
neighborhood, have been discovered seven months since the dig began. Many
international missions looked for this city but were unable to locate it.
Archaeological excavations are underway at the site, and the team hopes to find
untouched tombs containing valuables.
