Deity-inscribed tombstones, sarcophagi unearthed at ancient Egyptian burial site

Egyptian archaeologists uncovered some 20 limestone tombstones, several sarcophagi, and funerary amulets at the Tell El Deir site in the Nile Delta. The tombstones bear imagery of Agathodaemon and Isis-Thermouthis, indicating Greek and Roman influence on ancient Egyptian funerary practices. Officials say the site was an integrated funerary center, not just a burial place.

Egyptian archaeologists have uncovered some 20 limestone tombstones, several sarcophagi, and a collection of funerary amulets at the Tell El Deir archaeological site in the Nile Delta, according to an announcement by Egypt's Tourism and Antiquities Ministry. The tombstones are decorated with religious symbols and imagery, including a griffin, Agathodaemon, and Isis-Thermouthis. Agathodaemon is a serpent demon in Graeco-Egyptian religion, while Isis-Thermouthis combines the goddess Isis with Renenutet, the grain goddess. The presence of these deities suggests joint Greek and Roman influence on ancient Egyptian funerary practices. The decorations also help archaeologists determine the social status of the tomb owners. In addition, the mission found pottery incense burners, decorated lamps, and barrel-shaped anthropoid ceramic coffins. Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the discovery opens new horizons for understanding cemetery development in the Nile Delta and shows Tell El Deir was an integrated funerary center, not merely a burial place. The finds provide insight into funerary customs from the Late Period (664-332 BCE) through the end of the Roman era.