Ancient Egyptian official's tomb rediscovered in Saqqara with an untouched mummy

The tombs of senior ancient Egyptian officials Sabu and his son Ptahshepses were rediscovered in Saqqara. The offering chapel of Sabu's wife Iykhet-nefret and Ptahshepses' burial chamber with an untouched mummy were found. The Czech Institute of Egyptology led the excavations using satellite imagery.

The tombs of senior ancient Egyptian officials Sabu and his son Ptahshepses were rediscovered in Saqqara, the Egyptian Tourism and Antiquities Ministry announced this week. Sabu's tomb measures about 54 × 28 meters with an estimated original height of five meters. Archaeologists discovered for the first time the offering chapel of Sabu's wife, Iykhet-nefret, as well as Ptahshepses' burial chamber and limestone sarcophagus. The tombs were originally discovered between 1858 and 1860 by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette, but his excavations were limited and lacked comprehensive documentation. The current excavations are being conducted by the Czech Institute of Egyptology, using satellite imagery and field surveys. Ptahshepses is believed to have held high-ranking positions during the reigns of four Fifth Dynasty pharaohs and is considered the first official from outside the royal family to marry an Egyptian princess. Ptahshepses' mummy was found untouched, and analysis indicates he died at an age older than 60.